Endometrial Thickness During IVF Linked to Pregnancy Complications
Why Endometrial Thickness Matters and How to Support a Healthier Lining
If you’re on the journey to becoming a mom, navigating fertility challenges can make the journey more stressful. But understanding how your body supports implantation, especially the health of your uterus, can make a big difference. One crucial factor? Your endometrial lining—the cozy home your embryo needs to settle into for nine months of healthy growth.
Here’s what you need to know about why endometrial thickness matters, the risks linked to a thinner lining, and how you can support your body in achieving a healthier lining.
The Role of Your Endometrial Lining
Think of your endometrial lining as the soil in which your future baby’s “seed” is planted. For embryos to implant and thrive, this lining needs to be just right—not too thin, not too thick, but perfect for nurturing new life.
According to research, an endometrial thickness of 7.5 mm or above is optimal for successful embryo implantation and pregnancy in IVF cycles. Women with thinner linings (≤ 7.5 mm) have a higher risk of several problems during frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles, including:
Placental abruption: 1.09% vs. 0.07% (statistically significant, P = 0.001)
Placental adherence: 15.38% vs. 7.14% (statistically significant, P < 0.001)
Low birth weight: Babies born to women with thinner linings were more likely to weigh less than average (statistically significant, P = 0.006).
Postpartum hemorrhage: 15.38% vs. 11.42% (P = 0.064, not significant but important)
The risk of pre-eclampsia was also increased (this is a significant complication of pregnancy that can have a long term impact on your health)
These important findings highlight the importance of optimal endometrial thickness to support a healthy ongoing pregnancy.
How PBM Therapy Improves Endometrial Thickness
Photobiomodulation treatment (PBM), is growing in use for its potential to improve endometrial thickness . According to research, PBM improves blood flow, decreases inflammation, and increases cellular energy generation, all of which contribute to endometrial thickening.
One study found that PBM, significantly increased endometrial thickness in women undergoing IVF. This resulted in enhanced implantation rates and pregnancy success.
Supporting Your Endometrial Lining: What You Can Do
If your doctor has mentioned a thin lining, there are steps you can take to support your body and improve your endometrial thickness:
Boost Blood Flow - Moderate exercise like walking or yoga can improve circulation to the pelvic area. PBM therapy can stimulate blood flow and tissue repair, making it an excellent option for women with thinner linings.
Eat to Nourish Your Lining - An anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3s (think salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed) can support uterine health. Vitamin E and L-arginine are known for improving blood flow and tissue health—ask your doctor if supplements might help.
Hormonal Support - Estrogen therapy can help build up a thin lining. Your fertility team can guide you on this.
Consider Low-Dose Aspirin - your doctor may recommend low-dose aspirin to boost uterine blood flow.
Why This Matters
While the risks associated with thinner endometrial linings are real, it’s important to remember that you have options. Knowing what’s happening with your body—and how to support it—gives you more feelings of control over your fertility journey.
Every small step forward is a step toward your dream. Building your knowledge about factors like endometrial thickness helps you make informed, empowered choices. And remember, you’re not alone on this journey—there are tools, therapies, and a whole community cheering you on.
If you’d like more information about how photobiomodulation therapy (red light therapy) and other interventions can support your fertility, reach out. I’m here to help.
Tracy
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