Preimplantation Genetic Testing is aimed at identifying genetic disorders in embryos prior to implantation. It can assist couples with known histories of genetic disorders or recurrent miscarriages. The embryos are examined so that the healthiest ones can be selected for IVF. This will improve the chance of a successful pregnancy while reducing the risk of passing on the genetic condition to the baby.
RiSaa IVF offers Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) to help people with inherited disorders. The test ensures that only healthy embryos are implanted for fertilization, giving families the opportunity for a healthy baby.
In this blog, we will cover what PGT encompasses-how it works, who may benefit from it, and important information for you before you make any decisions. This guide will help you to figure out whether PGT would suit you.
What is PGT?
PGT full form is Preimplantation Genetic Testing. It is a specialized test during the IVF process to check the embryos for genetic problems prior to implantation. It helps to select out the healthiest embryos, thus raising the chances of a successful implantation. PGT is worth-trying for couples with some background of genetic disorder, multiple miscarriages, or failed IVF cycles. There are 3 basic types of PGT.
Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A)
PGT A can help evaluate if an embryo has an abnormal number of chromosomes. Either an excess or a deficiency in chromosomes that may lead to diseases like Down syndrome or lack of embryo implantation. It helps in the selection of embryos that have the right number of chromosomes in addition to improving the IVF success rates.
Preimplantation Genetic Testing for a Monogenic Disease (PGT-M)
PGT-M is indicated specifically for couples who carriers single-gene disorders. Among many other disorders, some examples are cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia. This testing takes place on embryos for that single disease mutation. In doing so, it improves the chances of a family with hereditary diseases of having a healthy child.
PGT for Chromosome Structural Rearrangement (PGT-SR)
PGT-SR is for people with chromosome rearrangements, like translocations. These changes can lead to miscarriages or failed IVF cycles. This test helps find embryos with normal chromosome structure, improving the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
Who Should Consider Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)?
PGT is helpful for couples who want to reduce the risk of genetic conditions in their baby. It is especially useful for those with:
- Repeated miscarriages: Some miscarriages happen due to genetic problems in the embryo. PGT can help select healthy embryos.
- Multiple failed IVF cycles: If IVF has not worked before, PGT can help find the best embryos for implantation.
- Advancing maternal age (35+ years): Older eggs have a higher chance of chromosome issues. PGT helps improve pregnancy chances.
- Family history of genetic disorders: Couples who carry conditions like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia can benefit from PGT.
- Previous child with a genetic disorder: If a couple has a child with a genetic condition, PGT can help prevent it in future pregnancies.
- Chromosome rearrangements (like translocations): If one partner has a chromosome issue, PGT-SR can help select embryos with a normal structure.
- Male factor infertility: Severe sperm issues may lead to chromosome problems in embryos. PGT can help choose the healthiest ones.
If any of the above conditions apply to you, you can consult Dr. Rita Bakshi, Senior Fertility Expert at RISAA IVF. We are here to help you make an informed decision whether PGT is right for you.
How Preimplantation Genetic Testing Works?
PGT test is done during IVF to check embryos for genetic problems before implantation. It helps doctors choose the healthiest embryos for pregnancy. Here are the main steps:
- Ovarian Stimulation: The woman takes hormone injections to produce multiple eggs.
- Egg Retrieval: Doctors collect the mature eggs from the ovaries using a simple procedure.
- Fertilization: The doctor will combine the egg with sperm in the lab to create embryos.
- Embryo Growth: The embryos grow in the lab for a few days until they reach the blastocyst stage.
- Embryo Biopsy: Next step is to gently remove a few cells from each embryo for testing.
- Genetic Testing: The cells are checked for chromosome issues or genetic diseases.
- Embryo Selection: Only the healthiest embryos are chosen for transfer.
- Embryo Transfer: The selected embryo is placed in the woman’s uterus for pregnancy.
Benefits of Preimplantation Genetic Testing
PGT helps in selecting the healthiest embryos before implantation. It improves the chances of a successful pregnancy and reduces genetic risks. Here are the key benefits:
- Higher IVF success rates: PGT helps choose embryos with normal chromosomes. This helps to increase the chances of pregnancy.
- Lower risk of miscarriage: Many miscarriages happen due to genetic problems. PGT helps prevent this by selecting healthy embryos.
- Reduces genetic diseases: It helps couples avoid passing inherited conditions like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia to their baby.
- Better results for older women: Women over 35 have a higher risk of chromosome issues. PGT helps improve their chances of a healthy pregnancy.
- Prevents failed IVF cycles: By selecting the best embryos, PGT can reduce the chances of unsuccessful IVF attempts.
- Helps couples with previous genetic issues: If a couple had a child with a genetic disorder, PGT helps prevent it in future pregnancies.
- Useful for chromosome problems: If one partner has a chromosome rearrangement, PGT-SR helps find embryos with normal chromosome structure.
- Increases chances of a healthy baby: Selecting healthy embryos reduces risks of genetic conditions and complications during pregnancy.
Risks of Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) has many benefits, but it also comes with some risks. Here are the main risks to consider:
- Embryo Damage: A small part of the embryo is removed for testing. In rare cases, this may harm the embryo.
- Not 100% Guarantee: PGT reduces genetic risks but does not guarantee a successful pregnancy. Other factors also affect IVF success.
- Fewer Embryos for Transfer: Some embryos may be unsuitable after testing. This may reduce the number of embryos available for IVF.
- Higher Cost: PGT adds extra steps to IVF. It can make the treatment more expensive.
- Ethical and Emotional Concerns: Deciding which embryos to use or discard can be stressful for some couples.
In Closing
Preimplantation Genetic Testing is helpful during IVF. It improves the chances of having a healthy pregnancy. It reduces the risk of miscarriage, genetic diseases, and chromosome issues by selecting the healthiest embryos. The process involves many steps and gives couples more confidence in their IVF journey. At RiSaa IVF, we offer the best PGT services to support couples through every step of the process. Our expert team helps you understand the best options for a healthy pregnancy. Contact us today or mail us at [email protected] for expert guidance and care.
