How to Increase Endometrial Thickness?

Why Is Endometrial Thickness Important For IVF?

In IVF, an embryo is prepared in the lab by fertilising an egg and sperm. Healthy embryos are then transferred to the uterus. The endometrial lining of the uterus must be thick enough for successful implantation. The ideal thickness of the endometrial lining during implantation should be between 7 and 14 mm.

It will become difficult for an embryo to attach properly or grow adequately on a thin endometrium. Embryo growth will not occur due to poor blood flow, uterine scarring, or low estrogen levels. On the other hand, if an endometrium has a proper blood supply, balanced hormone levels, and adequate nutrient exchange, it can support proper embryo attachment and growth.

Causes Of Thin Endometrium

Different factors can cause a thin endometrial lining. Important causes include:

• Estrogen is important for endometrial growth. Low estrogen levels can cause a thin or non-responsive uterine lining.
• Previous surgeries, such as dilation and curettage, uterine infections, and fibroid removal, can cause scarring that can cause a thin uterine lining.
• Improper blood supply to the uterine endometrium causes less oxygen and nutrient supply, which impacts the growth of the uterine lining.
• Overuse of fertility medications can suppress the process of endometrial growth.
• Chronic inflammation can affect the growth of the endometrial lining.
• Hormonal imbalance and advancing age are also responsible for a thin endometrial lining due to low estrogen production.

Natural Ways to Increase Endometrial Thickness

Making changes in daily habits can increase blood flow and improve hormonal balance. The best natural ways to increase endometrial thickness are:

• A diet rich in nutrients, including leafy green vegetables, berries, nuts, seeds, avocados, and whole grains, is important. These foods enhance estrogen and iron levels, which are necessary for endometrial growth. Foods high in antioxidants protect cells from oxidative stress.
• Make exercise a daily routine. Simple exercises improve blood circulation and help balance hormones.
• Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for improving hormonal balance and uterine receptivity. Flaxseeds, fish, and walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
• Drinking adequate water also helps maintain a healthy uterine lining; therefore, stay well hydrated.
• Proper sleep is required to repair damaged cells and tissues and regulate hormones. Therefore, aim to get 7-8 of restful sleep.
• A healthy body weight is required for IVF success because obesity and underweight can affect estrogen levels and endometrial development.
• Stress is another culprit that affects reproductive hormones. Practice breathing exercises and meditation to maintain hormonal balance.
• Keep a warm water bottle on the lower abdomen to enhance blood flow to the uterine lining.

If the above habits are practised regularly, they can help to enhance the chances of IVF success.

Supplements That May Support Uterine Lining Growth

Doctors may also recommend some nutritional supplements to increase blood flow to the uterus. But you must discuss this with your fertility expert if you are trying for an IVF procedure. Some supplements for endometrial thickness are:

• Vitamin E helps to improve blood circulation and endometrial response to hormones.
• L-Arginine is an amino acid that increases nitric oxide production to enhance uterine blood vessel dilation.
• Omega-3 fatty acids help to regulate hormonal balance and reduce inflammation. It is mainly found in fish oil.
• CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10) improves egg and uterine cells' health and also increases the production of energy in cells.
• Folic acid is also necessary for tissue repair and cellular growth. It is given during the preconception stage.

Lifestyle Habits to Avoid

During IVF treatment, a woman has to make lifestyle changes to enhance proper growth of the uterine lining and endometrial receptivity. You must make the following changes in lifestyle:

• Avoid living a sedentary life because lack of exercise can reduce pelvic circulation and impair uterine cell growth.
• If a woman eats a poor diet it can lack necessary nutrients and can cause hormonal imbalance and improper uterine lining development.
• Some women use cosmetic items including harsh chemicals, pesticides, and plastics. Such ingredients can affect hormones.
• Women who have a habit of smoking and alcohol drinking. They must avoid these habits as these can reduce blood circulation, and oxygen supply to the uterus, and lower estrogen levels.
• A woman should avoid a high intake of caffeine as it can constrict blood vessels and affect blood flow to the uterus.

When to Consult Your Doctor?

Consultation with a fertility expert is necessary if the endometrial lining does not improve despite eating a healthy diet and making lifestyle changes. A doctor can thoroughly assess your case and perform diagnostic tests, such as ultrasounds, hormonal tests, and uterine evaluations, to determine the exact cause. The doctor may advise the following tips:

• Change the dose and type of estrogen therapy.
• Make a tailored treatment plan by selecting the best medications.
• Recommend blood tests for infections or uterine scarring.
• Suggest additional treatments such as G-CSF or PRP.

A fertility expert can work closely with you to improve IVF outcomes. Improving endometrial thickness may take time; therefore, patience and the right treatment are important.

Conclusion

A healthy and receptive endometrial lining is important for IVF success. Endometrial thickness can be increased using medical treatment, proper nutrition, and natural methods. You must consult with a fertility expert who can assess your case thoroughly and guide you with the right strategies to improve endometrial thickness. A doctor can recommend a tailored treatment plan, including medical and natural therapies.