What is the endometrium?
The endometrium is the dynamic tissue of the female reproductive system that constitutes the inner lining of the uterus and renews itself under the effect of hormones every month. This tissue falls off at menstruation and it is the site of implantation of the fetus.
Endometrium and EMMA
EMMA is a diagnostic test that detects abnormalities with prognostic value in the outcome of the implantation, by analyzing the endometrial microbiome. In essence, the EMMA test provides information about the ratio of bacteria in the uterus and the presence of those associated with high pregnancy rates.
What is the procedure?
A small sample of the endometrium in a natural cycle from which the DNA is extracted is needed to perform the EMMA test. The NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) analysis is then performed where the bacteria present in the endometrium are analyzed. Depending on the results of the report, the appropriate treatment is selected. The test will determine whether or not the endometrium is suitable for the fetus.
For example, low levels of the intrauterine bacterium Lactobacillus, when detected together with pathogenic bacteria, indicate a poor reproductive result.
Endometrium and EMMA: Who should be tested?
Patients in whom repeated embryo implantation has failed should take the EMMA test.
Endometrium and ALICE
The EMMA test also includes the ALICE test, which detects pathogenic bacteria that are responsible for causing chronic endometritis. Chronic endometritis can cause fetal implantation failure and miscarriages.
What is the process?
It is the same as the EMMA test. The NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) is the latest sequencing technology used by the ALICE test for the analysis of bacteria that cause chronic endometritis. The positive result of the test signals the identification of the bacteria that cause the irregularity in the endometrium. Depending on the bacterium being detected, antibiotics are recommended.
Who should take the ALICE test?
Any patient wishing to get pregnant, through ALICE, can assess the implantation environment of the fetus. Patients with repeated implantation failure embryo transfers or miscarriages may also take the ALICE test.
The EMMA and ALICE tests can indicate when the endometrial environment is ready for embryo implantation and can reduce the failure rates of patients.
For more information about the EMMA and ALICE diagnostic tests, you may contact the Obstetrician–Gynecologist Dr. Melina Stasinou. The physician specializes in Assisted Reproduction, Endocrinology and Microsurgery of the female reproductive tract and collaborates on the tests with Igenomix.
