The BCL6 IVF low-down – what does a positive result mean for that next cycle?

Understanding the role of BCL6

The IVF process – from prepping to debriefing – can be a total rollercoaster, especially when cycles don’t go as planned. If, like a few members of team TRB, you’ve experienced failed embryo transfers or recurrent pregnancy loss, you may be looking for answers beyond standard fertility testing. 

One emerging factor that could be affecting your success is a protein marker called BCL6, which indicates uterine lining inflammation most often associated with asymptomatic (silent) endometriosis. Studies show that BCL6 is present in over 50 per cent of women with unexplained infertility and around 65 per cent of women with two or more failed IVF cycles.

ReceptivaDx™ is the only test that can identify leading causes of unexplained infertility in a single sample, including endometriosis, progesterone resistance, and endometritis. With their expert team, we’re unpacking what testing positive for BCL6 may mean for your IVF journey – from identification to treatment pathways and success rates. 

For more details about BCL6 testing, visit ReceptivaDx. All done? Let’s deep-dive the topic.

What does a positive BCL6 test mean for IVF planning?

Every fertility journey is unique, but BCL6-positive test results can provide critical insights into your fertility journey and guide the next steps for improving your chances of a successful pregnancy. Understanding its impact and available treatment options can help you and your physician make informed decisions.

What is BCL6 a marker for?

BCL6 is a protein marker that indicates inflammation in the uterine lining, most commonly caused by endometriosis. This inflammation can lead to progesterone resistance, making implantation of an embryo more difficult. 

If left untreated, a positive BCL6 result can contribute to recurrent implantation failure and pregnancy loss.

The science, simplified

Early research in 2017 established a connection between BCL6 overexpression and IVF failure. BCL6-positive cases are linked to chronic inflammation that disrupts the balance between estrogen and progesterone, preventing proper implantation. Endometriosis, often silent in many patients, is the leading cause of this inflammation.

However, treating BCL6-positive cases before an IVF cycle can significantly improve success rates. Research indicates that addressing endometriosis through medical suppression or surgical intervention can increase the chance of pregnancy fivefold. 

Over 20 peer-reviewed studies now support the role of BCL6 testing in improving reproductive outcomes. Read more about this research here.

What are the treatment options?

If you test positive for BCL6, your next step is to discuss treatment options with your doctor. The two main approaches for improving implantation success in IVF include:

1. Medical suppression (lupron depot)

• Depot lupron (GnRH agonist): The most widely studied medical suppression method, typically taken for 60 days before embryo transfer.
• Orlissa (Elagolix): A newer GnRH antagonist used to reduce estrogen activity and inflammation.
• Letrozole: A milder alternative, though less effective than lupron or orlissa.

2. Surgical treatment (laparoscopy)

A minimally invasive procedure to remove endometriosis lesions, reducing inflammation and improving implantation conditions.

Learn more about treatment options here.

Can a positive BCL6 indicate recurrent pregnancy loss?

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a devastating experience – I’ve been there, and I know the pain and frustration which can take over. 

More recently, emerging research suggests a potential link between BCL6 positivity and repeated miscarriage. Inflammation caused by undiagnosed or untreated endometriosis can compromise the uterine environment, increasing the likelihood of pregnancy loss. For women experiencing RPL, testing for BCL6 may provide valuable insights and guide targeted treatment.

How much does the BCL6 test cost?

This really varies, depending on location and insurance coverage. Patients interested in BCL6 testing should consult their fertility clinic or ReceptivaDx for pricing details and potential financial assistance options. 

We’ve covered a deeper dive on BCL6 testing and costs here.

Before your next cycle – 5 key takeaways to bear in mind

1. A positive BCL6 test suggests uterine inflammation, often due to silent endometriosis, which can affect IVF success.
2. Treating BCL6-positive cases before an embryo transfer can increase success rates fivefold.
3. Medical suppression (depot lupron) and surgical intervention are the two primary treatment pathways.
4. Testing for BCL6 is crucial for women experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss or failed IVF cycles.
5. Understanding the cost and accessibility of the BCL6 test can help in planning your fertility treatment.

Tested positive?

Whatever your results, it’s natural to have questions and concerns. But a BCL6-positive result provides an opportunity to address underlying issues before your next IVF cycle. With targeted treatment, many women go on to achieve successful pregnancies.

For next steps and more support, touch base with ReceptivaDx and be sure to catch our Q&A master class, The Ribbon Box: Understanding BCL6 and IVF.

By working closely with your fertility specialist, you can optimize your IVF plan and increase your chances of a successful pregnancy.