In this article:
What Does It Mean When an Egg Is Rejected?
When a sperm meets an egg, it forms a fertilised egg (or embryo), which attaches to the lining in a process called implantation. It is the first crucial step leading to pregnancy. However, in some cases, the egg does not attach to the lining, or it does not remain attached for long. It is often referred to as the body rejecting the egg. It usually happens on its own and not because of something you did wrong. This rejection is a natural way for your body to prevent an unhealthy pregnancy.
Why Does Implantation Failure Happen?
- Chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo: The problem is most often due to chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo itself. It means that the embryo does not have the right number of chromosomes, which are necessary to grow. Studies show that around 50–60% of early pregnancy losses occur due to this single reason. In such cases, your body prevents implantation or ends it at earlier stages.
- Hormonal imbalances: Your hormones are also essential to prepare your uterine lining for pregnancy. Low levels of progesterone after fertilisation can make it hard to maintain pregnancy because the lining does not remain thick. This problem further increases when you have thyroid conditions or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affects hormonal balance.
- Issues with the uterus: The environment of your uterus should be able to support pregnancy by making it favourable to receive an embryo. However, conditions such as fibroids, polyps, scar tissue, or a thin uterine lining can interfere with the implantation. Sometimes, the shape of the uterus can also make it difficult for the fertilised egg to implant.
- Immune system factors: In rare cases, your immune system may think of the embryo as a threat and attack it. It happens when you have autoimmune conditions, leading to recurrent implantation failure.
- Lifestyle and external factors: Consider assessing your lifestyle choices to prepare for pregnancy. Smoking, excessive alcohol, high caffeine intake, and even severe stress can impact your hormones. Additionally, the quality of eggs declines after the age of 35, increasing the likelihood of rejection.
How Can You Recognise If Implantation Failed?
In many cases, implantation failure happens before you may even realise that you are pregnant. So, watch out for the signs listed below.- Your period arrives on time or slightly late.
- Very light bleeding or spotting (sometimes mistaken for a light period).
- Mild cramping without a confirmed pregnancy.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Women go through implantation failure without it affecting their chances of pregnancy in the future. But you must consult your doctor under the following circumstances.- You have had two or more miscarriages or failed IVF cycles.
- Your periods are very irregular or unusually painful.
- You have known conditions like PCOS, thyroid issues, or uterine fibroids.
- You are over 35 and have been trying to conceive for more than 6–12 months.
What Can You Do to Support Implantation?
1. Medical Guidance
- Your doctor may suggest progesterone supplements after examining your hormone levels.
- The problems with the uterus or hormones can be identified using ultrasound, blood tests, or a laparoscopy.
- For couples with repeated failures, genetic counselling may help them move forward.
2. Lifestyle Support
You can also take steps to create a healthy environment for implantation.- Eat a balanced diet rich in iron, folate, and protein to support your health.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol.
- Reduce stress through yoga, meditation, or light exercise.
- Sleep at least 7–8 hours every night.
Emotional and Social Aspects
Experiencing problems with implantation can be emotionally challenging. It often fills you with guilt and sadness, but remember that the rejection of a fertilised egg is not your fault. You can talk to your partner or family member to lower the emotional burden. You can also attend counselling sessions to seek professional advice in overcoming this phase.Checklist: What To Do If You Suspect Implantation Failure
- Track your menstrual cycles carefully.
- Note any spotting, cramping, or unusual changes.
- Get medical advice if you experience repeated failures.
- Review your lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol).
- Talk openly with your partner about your feelings.
- Seek counselling or support groups if it gets too overwhelming.
You can improve your chances by understanding the reasons, whether it is due to abnormalities in chromosomes or lifestyle choices. Please do not forget your emotional health, as it is equally important as your physical well-being.
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FAQs on Why the Female Body Sometimes Rejects a Fertilised Egg
- Does implantation failure mean I am infertile?
Implantation failure is the most common reason for early losses in many women, but they can conceive naturally and lead a healthy pregnancy. - Can stress alone cause implantation failure?
Stress cannot be the only reason for implantation problems, but high levels do affect your hormones. The hormonal imbalance may cause implantation failure if you conceive. - What medical treatments can help improve implantation?
The treatment depends on the cause of the implantation failure, so your doctor may suggest hormone therapy, treating uterine conditions, or lifestyle changes. In rare cases, they may recommend assisted reproductive techniques like IVF with genetic testing.
