Overview
At Ishwa IVF, immune tests are chosen for your history rather than ordered as a large panel for everyone. Your doctor explains what each test can and cannot tell you.
When immune testing is considered
- Two or more miscarriages
- Repeated IVF failure after the transfer of good-quality embryos
- A history of blood clots, or a known autoimmune condition such as lupus or thyroid disease
- A previous pregnancy with severe complications linked to the placenta
Tests with clear value
- Antiphospholipid antibodies
Lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin and anti-beta-2 glycoprotein antibodies, repeated after 12 weeks if positive. Antiphospholipid syndrome is a treatable cause of recurrent miscarriage. - Thyroid function and thyroid antibodies
Thyroid problems are common and easily treated before pregnancy. - Other tests chosen for your history
For example clotting tests when there is a personal or family history of clots.
Tests still being studied
Some immune tests, such as natural killer (NK) cell tests and certain cytokine or HLA tests, are still being researched, and experts do not yet agree on how to interpret them or treat the results. Your doctor will explain whether any of them are useful in your situation before you decide.
What treatment can involve
- Low-dose aspirin and heparin during pregnancy for women with antiphospholipid syndrome
- Thyroid treatment before and during pregnancy when needed
- Treating other causes found during the work-up, such as problems in the uterus
Questions about immune testing
Does everyone need immune testing before IVF?
No. Immune testing is useful for selected couples, mainly after repeated miscarriage or repeated IVF failure. Most couples do not need it.
What is antiphospholipid syndrome?
An immune condition in which antibodies make the blood more likely to clot, including in the placenta. It is a recognised, treatable cause of recurrent miscarriage.
Can immune problems be treated?
Some can. Antiphospholipid syndrome is treated with aspirin and heparin in pregnancy, and thyroid problems with medicines. For other immune findings the evidence is less clear, and your doctor will discuss the options honestly.
When should immune tests be done?
Ideally before your next pregnancy or embryo transfer, so any treatment can be planned in advance.
