Endometriumrezeptivität

Endometriumrezeptivität refers to the transient period during the menstrual cycle when the endometrium, the lining of the uterus, is receptive to embryo implantation. This window of receptivity is crucial for successful pregnancy and is tightly regulated by hormonal signals, primarily estrogen and progesterone.

The endometrium undergoes cyclical changes throughout the menstrual cycle, driven by fluctuating levels of these hormones. During the proliferative phase, under the influence of estrogen, the endometrium thickens and develops glands. Following ovulation, during the secretory phase, progesterone transforms the endometrium into a more receptive state, characterized by increased vascularization, glandular secretion of nutrients, and specific molecular changes on the endometrial surface.

The window of implantation typically opens about 6-10 days after ovulation and lasts for a few days. During this time, specific genes are expressed in the endometrial cells that facilitate the interaction between the developing embryo and the uterine lining, allowing for adhesion and subsequent invasion. This process involves complex molecular crosstalk between the embryo and the endometrium.

Disruptions in endometrial receptivity can contribute to infertility and recurrent implantation failure. Factors such as hormonal imbalances, inflammatory conditions, uterine abnormalities, and aging can affect the timing or quality of this receptive window. Understanding and diagnosing issues with endometrial receptivity is an active area of research in reproductive medicine, with potential therapeutic interventions aimed at optimizing this crucial phase for successful conception.