RIF is incredibly draining on the body. Not only are there the physiological effects of egg extraction and implantation, but the stress and disappointment also take their toll. But what’s behind the implantation failure in IVF? Here are five possible causes according to Chinese Medicine.

1. Embryo Quality

Embryo quality is one of the most important factors in a successful implantation. Factors such as genetic defects, morphological abnormalities, and metabolic deficiencies of the embryo can affect its viability and lower the chance of implantation.

In Chinese medicine, poor-quality embryos are linked to a Kidney Yin Deficiency. Kidney Yin governs the follicular or growth phase (days 1-14) of the menstrual cycle. As such, if deficient, it can affect the quality of eggs and subsequent embryos.

Characteristic symptoms of a Kidney Yin Deficiency include hot flashes, dry mouth, night sweats, thirst at night, and irregularities in menstruation such as short cycles or light-coloured menstrual flow.

Related: How to Improve Egg Quality for IVF with Natural Chinese Medicine

2. Thin Endometrium

The endometrium is the lining of the uterus (or womb). Embryos implant into the endometrium, which supplies the growing child with nutrients and oxygen via its rich blood supply. However, the thinner the endometrium, the more limited its blood supply, impairing the chance of successful implantation or pregnancy. Factors causing a thin endometrium include hormonal imbalances and uterine blood flow issues.

TCM practitioners associate a thin endometrium with a Liver or Spleen Blood Deficiency. If a woman has a normal menstrual flow, then the endometrium is the correct thickness. Signs of Liver and Spleen blood deficiency often include scanty or light menstrual flow, which suggests inadequate endometrial growth. Other symptoms may include dizziness, insomnia, blurred vision, and dry skin.

Related: Thicken Uterine Lining Naturally With Chinese Medicine

3. Uterine Scarring

Scar tissue in the uterus is a common cause of recurrent implantation failure in women who’ve previously undergone pelvic surgery or had an infection. Disruptions to the uterine lining make it difficult for an embryo to implant.

TCM links uterine scarring to Liver Qi Stagnation. It is associated with absent or irregular periods, pre-menstrual tension, breast tenderness, bloating, and irritability. The condition occurs because of an impaired flow of energy (Qi) and blood within the liver.

4. Cold Uterus

In TCM, the terms Yin and Yang are associated with temperature. Yin is cool and moistening, whereas Yang is warm and dry. A ‘cold uterus,’ therefore, is synonymous with a Yang Deficiency. If the uterine environment is cold, the temperature is too low to support implantation. It’s akin to trying to grow a tropical plant in a cold climate.

Moreover, a cold uterus may also mean there’s an inadequate blood supply to the uterine lining (see point 2.) Symptoms of a Yang Deficiency include a preference for warmth, cold hands and feet, and severe menstrual pain that is alleviated with heat.

Related: How To Keep Uterus Warm For Implantation With Chinese Medicine

5. Blood Stasis

Blood stasis in TCM refers to the poor circulation of blood, particularly in the uterus. If the blood does not flow, it cannot nourish the endometrial lining and support embryo implantation.

The underlying cause of this condition involves several factors, including a sedentary lifestyle, exposure to cold, or traumatic injury. Symptoms of Blood Stasis can include fixed, stabbing pain, dark, clotted menstrual blood, and a purplish tongue.