QuestionHi Dr. Ramirez,
What are your thoughts on beta -3 integrin testing for unexplained infertility. I've read that treatment for those lacking the protein is either 3 months of depot lupron or letrozole. We have done all the testing except a lap and everything had tested great. I just turned 35 and my husband is 34. We have had one failed IVF cycle where we transferred two 5 day blasts (grade A and B) . We have one grade A 6 day blast frozen. We are getting ready for a second fresh cycle and if that fails I would like to do this test before transferring any frozen embryos.
AnswerHello Sunny from the U.S. (Maryland),
I don't do b-integrin testing for the simple reason that if it is negative, then additional progesterone is the treatment of choice. Because progesterone is fairly innocuous, I choose to treat all my patients with extra progesterone (injectable and vaginal).
Good Luck,
Dr. Edward J. Ramirez, M.D., FACOG
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com
Monterey, California, U.S.A.
for additional information check out my blog at http://womenshealthandfertility.blogspot.com check me out on twitter with me at @montereybayivf and facebook @montereybayivf. Skype and internet comprehensive consultations now available via my website for those who want a more extensive evaluation that this site can accommodate.
