LIT Therapy in IVF: Does It Improve Success Rates for Recurrent Miscarriages?

For couples who have faced the devastating heartbreak of recurrent miscarriages or repeated implantation failures during IVF, the journey to parenthood can feel emotionally and physically exhausting. In some cases, the cause behind these failures may not be related to embryo quality or uterine health, but to the immune system itself.

One supportive treatment that has shown promise in improving pregnancy outcomes for such couples is LIT therapy (Lymphocyte Immunotherapy). But what exactly is LIT therapy, and can it truly boost IVF success rates for those struggling with recurrent pregnancy loss?

Read on to learn about the science behind LIT therapy in IVF, how it works, its success rate, and whether it could be the right step forward in your fertility journey.

What Is LIT (Lymphocyte Immunotherapy)?

Lymphocyte Immunotherapy (LIT) is a specialised treatment designed to address immunological infertility, especially in cases where the female immune system may mistakenly reject the embryo. In LIT therapy, white blood cells (lymphocytes) from the male partner (or a donor) are collected and injected into the female partner to help her immune system recognise the partner’s genetic material and promote immune tolerance.

The immune system plays a crucial role in pregnancy. Sometimes, instead of supporting the embryo, it identifies it as a threat and attacks it, leading to implantation failure or miscarriage. LIT helps prevent this immune rejection, allowing the embryo to implant successfully and grow.

When Do Doctors Recommend LIT Therapy in IVF?

LIT therapy is not a standard part of every IVF cycle, but is often recommended when:

• A woman experiences two or more consecutive miscarriages (Recurrent Pregnancy Loss – RPL)
• There are multiple IVF failures without any obvious cause
• Tests suggest immunological incompatibility between partners (e.g., abnormal Natural Killer (NK) cell activity, HLA sharing, or blocking antibody issues)
• Other possible causes of miscarriage have been ruled out, and immune dysfunction is suspected

It’s important that proper immunological evaluation is done before suggesting LIT, as the treatment is specifically beneficial in immune-related fertility cases.

How LIT Therapy Supports IVF Success

In normal pregnancies, a woman’s immune system develops “blocking antibodies” that help accept the embryo. When this mechanism fails, the immune system may treat the embryo as foreign tissue. LIT therapy helps the mother’s body produce these protective blocking antibodies by exposing her immune system to the lymphocytes of her partner.

This process improves immune tolerance between the mother and foetus, reducing the chances of rejection and supporting embryo implantation and development during IVF.

LIT Therapy Success Rate: What Does the Research Say?

Studies evaluating the effectiveness of LIT therapy have reported varying outcomes depending on the patient group and treatment protocols. However, here’s what research generally suggests:

• Pregnancy success rates may increase by up to 50–60% in women with recurrent pregnancy loss linked to immune issues when treated with LIT therapy.
• One meta-analysis of immune therapies for RPL indicated that LIT improved live birth rates compared to untreated controls in certain cases.
• Success depends on factors like accurate diagnosis of immune-related infertility, proper testing, and timing of the treatment.

LIT therapy is not a universal solution for all cases of miscarriage or IVF failure. It works best when immune dysfunction is identified as the underlying cause.

What Is the Cost of LIT Therapy in India?

The cost of LIT therapy in India typically ranges from ₹25,000 to ₹50,000 per cycle, depending on factors such as:

• Whether the lymphocytes are from the partner or the donor
• Number of sessions recommended by the doctor
• Clinic’s location and the expertise of the fertility team
• Inclusions like consultation, immunological testing, lymphocyte preparation, injection procedure, and follow-up care

Always ask your fertility clinic for a transparent cost breakdown before beginning treatment.

How to Choose the Right Specialist for LIT Therapy in IVF

Choosing a fertility specialist experienced in immunological infertility is key to the success of LIT therapy. Here’s what to look for:

• Expertise in Immunological Fertility Treatments: Your doctor should have experience diagnosing and treating immune-related causes of recurrent pregnancy loss and IVF failure.
• Comprehensive Testing Before Recommendation: LIT should only be suggested after thorough evaluation and testing confirms immune dysfunction.
• Patient-Centric Approach and Transparent Care: Look for a clinic that offers clear explanations, emotional support, and personalised care plans.

Conclusion: Can LIT Therapy Improve Your IVF Success?

For couples facing unexplained pregnancy losses or repeated IVF failures, LIT therapy may offer a valuable supportive treatment by addressing immune-related barriers to pregnancy. While success rates can be promising, the right diagnosis and expert guidance are essential to ensure this therapy is beneficial for your specific case.

Meet the IVF Doctor in Pune for Personalised Guidance

At FYNE IVF, under the expert care of Dr. Deepali Chinchole, we specialise in advanced fertility treatments like LIT therapy with a patient-first approach. Our team offers comprehensive testing, personalised treatment plans, and emotional support to help you navigate your fertility journey with confidence. Book your consultation today with the best IVF doctor in Pune and find out if LIT therapy could be the missing piece in your path to parenthood.