FAQ's

How common is infertility?

More than six million people in the United States—about one in every six couples—are affected by infertility. Because fertility declines with age, this number is likely to rise as more couples wait until they are older to have children. It is estimated that 15% of females undergoing infertility evaluation have no cause identified. Uncertainty about the causes of infertility often leads to treatment that can create significant psychological and financial burden. For some women, this unexplained infertility could be caused by problems in uterine function, which makes in vitro fertilization (IVF) less likely to succeed. Fortunately, problems in uterine function can now be detected using the E-tegrity Test.

What is the E-tegrity Test?

The E-tegrity Test is used to determine how receptive the lining of the uterus is to the implantation of the fertilized egg. The test checks for the presence of the Beta-3 integrin, a glue-like protein necessary for implantation to take place. If you are missing the Beta-3 integrin, the fertilized egg may not attach properly to the uterine wall. As a result, your chances of a successful pregnancy are decreased.

How is the test performed?

Timing of the E-tegrity Test is very important. Your doctor will ask you to determine when you ovulate by using a commercial ovulation detection test administered at home. Your doctor will then collect a sample of your uterine lining 7 to 11 days after the ovulation test is positive. Sample is sent to Innovative Reproductive Solutions, the only licensed provider of the E-tegrity Test.

What do the test results mean?

A positive test result means the Beta-3 integrin has been detected. This indicates that the uterus is receptive to the implantation of the fertilized egg. A negative test result means the Beta-3 integrin has not been detected. A negative result can be caused by one of two conditions. The first condition, called “out of phase,” occurs when the development of the uterine lining is delayed. The second condition, called “in phase,” means that the lining of the uterus has developed properly, but the Beta-3 integrin is still missing. Your test result will help your doctor decide the best form of treatment.

Who pays for the test?

Check with your doctor to determine the specific charges associated with the E-tegrity Test. Payment must be made at the time of the test and is sent to the laboratory along with the sample. Payment made in the form of a check payable to Innovative Reproductive Solutions, a money order, Visa, or MasterCard. You will receive a receipt in the mail that may be submitted to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Talk to a representative from your insurance company to determine if the E-tegrity Test is covered.

How can I get tested?

Please contact your doctor to request an E-tegrity Test or visit the information section on our website.

How is the test performed?

Timing of the E-tegrity Test is very important. Your doctor will ask you to determine when you ovulate by using a commercial ovulation detection test administered at home. Your doctor will then collect a sample of your uterine lining 7 to 11 days after the ovulation test is positive. The sample is sent to Innovative Reproductive Solutions, the only licensed provider of the E-tegrity Test.

Why is the test important?

Understanding the cause of fertility problems is important to both you and your doctor. Studies show that women lacking the Beta-3 integrin have lower pregnancy rates than women who have the Beta-3 integrin. Performing the E-tegrity Test, before an expensive in vitro fertilization procedure, could predict the success or failure of that process. Studies also show that women with mild or moderate endometriosis or other hidden problems are missing the Beta-3 integrin. This test, used along with your other medical information, helps your doctor decide which treatment is right for you.