Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF) happens when healthy embryos are transferred into the uterus during IVF. However, they still don’t stick or grow into a baby. This can be very difficult for couples who are trying to have a baby, especially after going through many IVF attempts without success. So, it’s very important to know everything about it to help every couple make better decisions.
At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi, our Senior IVF Specialist, has helped many couples who have faced this issue. Today, in this blog, we will explain everything about RIF. We will explain what it means, why it happens, how it’s diagnosed, and more.
What is Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF)?
Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF) is a condition where healthy embryos are transferred during IVF. However, they fail to implant in the uterus even after trying multiple times. This means the woman doesn’t get pregnant even after going through two or more IVF cycles with good-quality embryos. It can be frustrating especially when everything looks right but the pregnancy still doesn’t happen.
RIF is not just about one failed cycle but it usually refers to repeated failures even when doctors use advanced techniques. It may be due to issues with the embryo, the uterus, or some other factors. In this, doctors try to understand why the embryo is not sticking properly. They suggest some treatments that are based on individual health to help improve the chances of getting pregnant.
Recurrent Implantation Failure Causes
Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF) can happen due to several reasons. Sometimes it’s a mix of small issues that come together to stop the embryo from attaching to the uterus. Below are some common causes of RIF, including:
- Poor embryo quality: When the embryo is weak or has genetic problems then it may not be able to attach or grow properly in the uterus.
- Thin or unhealthy uterine lining: The inner layer of the uterus (endometrium) needs to be thick and healthy for the embryo to stick. If it’s too thin or not ready then implantation can fail.
- Immune system issues: Sometimes, the body sees the embryo as an outer object and may stop it from implanting.
- Blood clotting problems: Some people have conditions that make their blood clot more than normal. This can reduce the blood flow that is needed for the embryo to grow.
- Hormonal imbalance: Hormones play an important role to prepare the body for pregnancy. If hormones are not balanced then it may affect the implantation.
- Uterine abnormalities: Some conditions like fibroids, polyps, or scar tissue inside the uterus can block or disturb the embryo from attaching.
- Genetic problems in parents: In some cases, one or both parents may carry genetic issues that can affect embryo development.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, being overweight, stress, or poor diet may also reduce the chances of successful implantation.
Recurrent Implantation Failure Symptoms
Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF) usually doesn’t show any signs in the body. There are many women who feel completely normal. However, there are still some signs that you can notice.
Here are some signs that may point to RIF:
- IVF cycles failed 2 or more times
- No positive pregnancy test after embryo transfer
- Early pregnancy loss again and again
- Feeling worried, anxious, or emotionally low after failed attempts
How is Recurrent Implantation Failure Diagnosed?
Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF) is diagnosed when a woman goes through two or more IVF cycles with good-quality embryos but pregnancy still doesn’t happen. In such cases, doctors try to find out what is causing this problem by doing a few tests.
Here are some common diagnosis for RIF:
- Ultrasound or Hysteroscopy: This helps to check the inside of the uterus for any issues like fibroids or polyps.
- Endometrial Receptivity Test (ERA): This helps to see if the uterus is ready to accept the embryo at the right time.
- Genetic testing (PGT): It helps to check if the embryos have any chromosomal issues.
- Blood tests: This helps to check for any hormone levels or immune system problems.
- Thrombophilia screening: This helps to find out if there are any blood clotting issues that are affecting implantation.
How Many Failed IVF Cycles Count as RIF?
Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF) usually happens when a woman goes through two or more IVF cycles where healthy embryos were transferred, but pregnancy did not happen. These embryos are often of good quality and everything may look fine in the reports but implantation doesn’t happen.
It’s important to note that the number may slightly vary depending on the clinic or doctor. There are some people who may consider RIF after three failed embryo transfers, especially if the woman is under the age of 35. But overall, when pregnancy doesn’t happen even after multiple IVF attempts then doctors may call it RIF after looking at the causes.
Advanced Tests for RIF
There are some advanced tests for Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF). These tests help to find out the exact reason why pregnancy is not happening and find the IVF failure reasons.
Here are some advanced tests for RIF:
- Immunological Tests: This helps to check if the immune system is reacting against the embryo.
- Natural Killer (NK) Cell Testing: This measures the activity of NK cells that might prevent implantation.
- Hysteroscopy with Biopsy: A small camera is used to closely examine the uterus and take a sample of the lining if needed.
- Chronic Endometritis Testing: This checks for any long-term inflammation in the uterus that may affect implantation.
Recurrent Implantation Failure Treatment Options
Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF) can be very difficult for couples who are trying to have a baby through IVF. However, there are some treatments that may improve the chances of success.
Here are some treatment options for RIF:
- Changing IVF medicines: Doctors may change the type or amount of medicines that are used during IVF.
- Choosing better embryos: Doctors will do some tests like PGT to select the healthiest embryos.
- Fixing problems in the uterus: If there are fibroids, polyps, or swelling then it’s important to remove and treat them.
- Endometrial Receptivity Analysis (ERA): This test helps doctors to find the best day to transfer the embryo.
- Blood-thinning medicines: If there is a blood clotting issue then medicines like aspirin or heparin may be used.
- Immune system treatment: In some cases, treatments are given to help the body to accept the embryo.
- Healthy lifestyle: It’s important to eat well, stay active, avoid stress, and quit smoking or alcohol.
Final Words
Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF) can be a difficult situation for couples who are trying to get pregnant. In this blog, we have explained what RIF means, its causes, and how it is diagnosed. We also explained treatment options that may improve the chances of getting pregnant.
At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi (Senior IVF Specialist and Gynaecologist) has helped many couples to become parents with effective treatments. If you have any questions or want to learn more, feel free to call us at 95555 44421/22/23 or email at doctor@risaaivf.com.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What causes repeated implantation failure?
It can happen due to poor egg or sperm quality, uterus problems, hormonal issues, or unhealthy lifestyle.
What is the difference between RPL and RIF?
RPL means miscarriage happens again and again. RIF means the embryo doesn’t attach to the uterus at all.
Can implantation failure be cured?
Yes, in many cases. Doctors find the cause and give the right treatment to help implantation happen.
Is failed implantation normal?
Yes, it can happen sometimes. But if it keeps happening, doctors check for deeper reasons.
Can late implantation be successful?
Yes. If the uterus is healthy, late implantation can still lead to pregnancy.