Evvy adds fertility insights to its at-home vaginal microbiome test
Scientific insights into role of vaginal bacteria in reproductive health
A pioneering home test for vaginal health is being expanded to include fertility-related insights, providing scientific insights into the role of vaginal bacteria in reproductive health.
Evvy, a US-based biotech company specialising in vaginal microbiome testing, has announced the launch of a new fertility-focused feature within its flagship Vaginal Microbiome Test, which is the first and only validated, at-home, mNGS vaginal microbiome test.
Today, infertility affects millions worldwide, and about a third of cases are classified as “unexplained.” While some studies have linked microbial imbalances to infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, and preterm birth, access to in-depth vaginal microbiome testing has been limited.
Dr. Kate McLean, Chief Medical Officer at Evvy said:
“The connection between the vaginal microbiome and fertility is one of the most exciting frontiers in reproductive health.”
“Weʼve seen compelling research linking specific vaginal bacteria to everything from embryo implantation to pregnancy loss — yet this crucial information wasnʼt available to patients or providers in fertility care. By making these insights accessible, Evvy is bridging the gap between cutting-edge science and real-world clinical impact, giving individuals and providers a new tool to support reproductive success.ˮ
The link between vaginal bacteria and reproductive health
The vaginal microbiome is the ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and viruses that live in the vagina — and emerging research highlights its crucial role in reproductive health.
An imbalance in the vaginal microbiome can increase inflammation and the risk of infection in the reproductive tract, creating a less hospitable environment for conception. On the other hand, a microbiome dominated by protective bacteria, such as Lactobacillus crispatus, has been associated with improved fertility, successful implantation, and improved pregnancy outcomes.
How Evvy fertility insights work
The expansion of the Evvy test includes a range of fertility-related measures, including a "protective score" that assesses levels of beneficial bacteria like the protective bacteria Lactobacillus, a "microbiome diversity score" indicating overall bacterial variety (higher microbiome diversity has been linked to poorer IVF and pregnancy outcomes), and the presence of specific microbes ‘fertility disruptors’ linked to infertility. An optional STI testing panel is also available, as infections can be a key factor in reproductive health. If an STI is detected, users can access treatment through Evvy’s platform.
Priyanka Jain, Evvy’s co-founder and chief executive, said that fertility was often treated like a mystery leaving many struggling to find answers.
“For too long, fertility has been treated like a black box — leaving millions of people searching for answers with no clear path forward,ˮ said Priyanka Jain, co-founder and CEO of Evvy.
“By expanding our Vaginal Microbiome Test to include fertility insights, weʼre giving people the power to take control of their reproductive health with comprehensive testing and data-driven, personalized care.ˮ
The test, available in all 50 US states, costs $129, with the new fertility features included for customers purchasing after 18 March. Evvy also offers personalised treatment pathways and coaching based on test results.
Evvy has built what it claims is the world’s largest dataset on the vaginal microbiome and is using its research to develop treatments for conditions such as recurrent infections, menopause-related changes, and now fertility challenges. An upcoming publication, currently under review, is expected to provide further evidence on the effectiveness of Evvy’s approach in improving vaginal microbiome health.
The expansion comes as fertility treatment remains costly and complex. The average IVF cycle in the US costs between $12,000 and $25,000, meaning that for many, a better understanding of reproductive health before pursuing treatment could have significant financial and emotional benefits.
Other startups innovating in the vaginal microbiome space include Daye, which offers an at-home vaginal microbiome test using a swab from a tampon and includes insights on bacteria levels such as Lactobacilli and STI testing.