Implantation

Abstract

Human implantation has become the focus of considerable scientific interest with the advent ofin vitrofertilization and other assisted conception techniques. The frustratingly high failure rates associated with these procedures has led to detailed appraisal of possible causes. Without basic knowledge of the physiological processes involved, little progress has been achieved. Investigations have broadly concentrated on the endometrium/uterine environment and blastocyst quality. However, information on both these aspects in the human being is limited. Even in animal reproduction, the mechanisms of implantation are far from understood, although some of the possible factors involved have been studied. By necessity, much of this review extrapolates from animal data.