When pursuing IVF treatments, patients are often worried about the health and well-being of their growing baby. A common question is whether the embryo can be tested for genetic diseases prior to being transferred into the uterus. Thankfully, testing called Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) can be performed.
One of the tests is called PGT-Aneuploidy, previously known as Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS). This test looks at all the chromosomes in the embryo to make sure that they have the right number of chromosomes and that they are where they are supposed to be. Aneuploidy is a word to describe abnormal numbers of chromosomes. Even though an embryo looks normal under the microscope it might not be normal and abnormal chromosomes will usually lead to implantation failure and miscarriage. Sometimes however you can have a pregnancy with abnormal chromosomes that survives. The most common is Trisomy 21, or Down Syndrome. There are a few others as well. If an embryo is found to have an abnormal number of chromosomes, it will not be transferred. Ensuring that only healthy, viable embryos are transferred increases the likelihood of the implantation being successful and the pregnancy to go to full term.
Another test is called PGT-Monogenic/Single gene disorder, previously known as Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD). This test looks at whether the embryo carries a specific genetic disease and can be performed if one or both of the parents carry a specific genetic disease. If an embryo is found to have that specific gene, then it will not be transferred.
There have been no adverse health risks shown for babies that have been born after undergoing PGT other than the usual risks associated with the IVF process. These usual risks have to due with the embryo not implanting, not the actual health and development of the embryo itself. The health of your baby is critically important and using these techniques allows for the best results for both mother and baby during this already strenuous time. Being able to catch any defects early not only provides peace of mind, but also increases the chances that the process goes smoothly and successfully! It is to be noted that while PGT can detect genetic disorders and abnormalities, there are still other issues that can develop, so it is important to continue to undergo the usual prenatal testing to ensure your pregnancy is developing in a healthy manner!
Reproductive Health and Wellness Center: Preimplantation Genetic Testing
Part of our innovative infertility treatment process is to offer patients embryo testing for any genetic diseases prior to implantation. Get a fertility consultation in Orange County, CA with Top Doctor, Dr. Marcus Rosencrantz, to discuss PGT options. Go here to book your IVF consultation today.
At Reproductive Health and Wellness Center, we are experts at treating fertility issues. We provide the latest in cutting-edge embryo science by using the latest technologies, and we create innovative fertility plans tailored specifically to each individual. But we’re so much more.
