EMMA & ALICE Testing

EMMA & ALICE TESTING AT MIDLANDS WOMEN’S HEALTH

At Midlands Women’s Health, we understand that unexplained infertility, recurrent miscarriage, or repeated IVF failures can be emotionally and physically challenging. Our comprehensive EMMA and ALICE tests offer advanced insights into your uterine health, providing crucial information to tailor your fertility treatment effectively.

WHAT ARE EMMA AND ALICE?

EMMA (Endometrial Microbiome Metagenomic Analysis) and ALICE (Analysis of Infectious Chronic Endometritis) are cutting-edge diagnostic tests that analyze the bacterial environment within your endometrium—the lining of your womb. These tests help identify microbial imbalances that may hinder embryo implantation and contribute to reproductive challenges.

WHY CONSIDER EMMA AND ALICE?

Studies indicate that chronic endometritis affects up to 30% of infertile patients and is linked to implantation failure and recurrent miscarriage. Additionally, an optimal endometrial microbiome, particularly a dominance of Lactobacillus species, is associated with higher pregnancy rates.

By assessing your uterine microbiome, EMMA and ALICE provide valuable information to:

• Detect pathogenic bacteria causing chronic endometritis
• Identify beneficial bacteria linked to successful implantation.
• Guide targeted antibiotic and probiotic treatments to restore a healthy microbial environment.

WHEN IS THE TEST PERFORMED?

The EMMA and ALICE tests require an endometrial biopsy, which is typically scheduled between cycle days 15 and 25. This timing ensures that the biopsy captures the optimal phase of the menstrual cycle for analysis. You may take painkillers before the appointment to minimise discomfort during the procedure.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE PROCEDURE?

The endometrial biopsy involves collecting a small sample of the uterine lining. This sample is then analyzed using advanced technologies:

• EMMA utilizes RT-PCR technology to assess the presence and quantity of key bacterial species in the endometrium.
• ALICE employs Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to identify and quantify pathogenic bacteria associated with chronic endometritis.

Both tests provide detailed reports that inform personalised treatment plans, including recommendations for antibiotics and probiotics based on the specific bacterial profile detected.

WHO SHOULD CONSIDER EMMA AND ALICE?

These tests are particularly beneficial for individuals who:

• Have experienced recurrent implantation failure or recurrent miscarriage.
• Are undergoing assisted reproduction treatments.
• Wish to optimise their uterine environment to enhance fertility outcomes.

MORE INFORMATION

Learn more about EMMA and ALICE testing by visiting the following resources:

EMMA Test – https://www.igenomix.co.uk/our-services/emma
ALICE Test –  https://www.igenomix.co.uk/our-services/alice

NEXT STEPS

If you’re interested in learning more about EMMA and ALICE testing or wish to schedule a consultation, please contact us at Midlands Women’s Health.

Our team is dedicated to providing personalised care and supporting you on your fertility journey.