How Genetic testing (PGT) improves IVF success?
- toshib55
- Dec 11, 2024
- 4 min read
When it comes to fertility treatments, ensuring the health of embryos before implantation is crucial for increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy. One of the most advanced techniques used in this process is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT). PGT is a cutting-edge tool that allows fertility specialists to screen embryos for genetic abnormalities before transferring them to the uterus. This blog will dive deep into what PGT testing is, the types of tests available, the parameters they measure, and the benefits it offers for couples undergoing fertility treatments like IVF.
What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)?
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a procedure used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization (IVF) to test embryos for genetic conditions before implantation. By screening embryos for genetic abnormalities, PGT helps fertility specialists select the healthiest embryos for transfer, improving the chances of a successful pregnancy and reducing the risk of miscarriage or genetic disorders.
PGT is commonly performed after the embryos have been cultured for 5-6 days, when they reach the blastocyst stage. At this point, a few cells are removed from each embryo and tested for genetic abnormalities. PGT is particularly beneficial for individuals with a history of miscarriage, infertility, or genetic conditions.
Types of PGT Testing
There are three main types of Preimplantation Genetic Testing: PGT-A, PGT-M, and PGT-SR. Each type focuses on different aspects of genetic screening.
1. PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy)
PGT-A is the most common type of genetic screening and focuses on detecting aneuploidy, a condition where the number of chromosomes is abnormal. Humans typically have 23 pairs of chromosomes, but aneuploidy occurs when there is an extra or missing chromosome.
What PGT-A Measures:
Chromosomal Abnormalities: PGT-A detects conditions like Down syndrome, where there is an extra chromosome 21, or Turner syndrome, where there is only one X chromosome in females.
Chromosomal Balance: It helps identify embryos with the correct number of chromosomes, which are more likely to result in a healthy pregnancy.
Benefits of PGT-A:
The AMH test is simple and non-invasive. It is typically done with a blood sample drawn from the arm. Since AMH levels do not fluctuate with the menstrual cycle, the test can be taken at any time, making it more convenient compared to other fertility tests that require specific timing during the cycle.
2. PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders)
PGT-M is used for couples who are carriers of specific genetic conditions that can be passed on to their children. This test screens embryos for single-gene mutations, such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, or Huntington's disease.
What PGT-M Measures:
Single-Gene Disorders: PGT-M detects embryos that may carry genes associated with inherited genetic disorders.
Carrier Screening: If both parents are carriers of the same genetic condition, PGT-M can identify embryos that are not affected by the disorder and are safe for transfer.
Benefits of PGT-M:
Prevents Genetic Disorders: PGT-M helps avoid the transmission of inherited genetic conditions, ensuring that only embryos free of harmful mutations are implanted.
Family Planning for High-Risk Couples: Couples with a family history of genetic diseases can use PGT-M to prevent the birth of a child with serious genetic conditions, improving the quality of life for both the child and the parents.
3. PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements)
PGT-SR is designed for couples with known structural chromosomal rearrangements, such as translocations or inversions. These rearrangements can increase the risk of miscarriage or lead to conditions like infertility.
What PGT-SR Measures:
Chromosomal Structural Abnormalities: PGT-SR tests for structural chromosomal rearrangements, like inversions or translocations, that could affect embryo development.
Miscarriage Risk: It identifies embryos that carry these structural abnormalities, allowing fertility specialists to select embryos that are more likely to result in a healthy pregnancy.
Benefits of PGT-SR:
Reduces Miscarriage Risk: For couples with known chromosomal abnormalities, PGT-SR helps reduce the chances of miscarriage or abnormal pregnancies.
Improved IVF Outcomes: By selecting embryos free of structural abnormalities, PGT-SR increases the likelihood of a healthy, successful pregnancy.
Benefits of PGT Testing
Preimplantation Genetic Testing offers numerous benefits for couples seeking fertility treatments. Below are the key advantages:
1. Higher IVF Success Rates
PGT helps ensure that only healthy, genetically sound embryos are selected for implantation, significantly increasing the chances of successful pregnancy and reducing the likelihood of failed IVF cycles.
2. Reduces Risk of Miscarriage
By identifying embryos with chromosomal abnormalities, PGT reduces the risk of miscarriage, which is especially important for older women or couples with a history of recurrent miscarriage.
3. Prevents Genetic Disorders
PGT-M specifically helps prevent the transmission of serious genetic conditions to the child, offering peace of mind for couples with hereditary diseases in their family.
4. Customized Fertility Treatment Plans
The results of PGT allow fertility specialists to make informed decisions about which embryos to transfer, resulting in a more personalized and targeted fertility treatment plan.
5. Increases Chances of a Healthy Baby
PGT ensures that only the most viable embryos are implanted, significantly reducing the risk of genetic disorders, birth defects, and developmental issues.
Conclusion
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) has revolutionized the world of fertility treatments by offering a way to select the healthiest embryos, thereby improving the chances of a successful pregnancy and healthy baby. Whether it’s PGT-A for chromosomal abnormalities, PGT-M for genetic disorders, or PGT-SR for structural chromosomal rearrangements, this genetic screening offers numerous benefits for couples seeking fertility treatment.
If you are considering fertility treatments like IVF, PGT testing can be an essential tool in your journey. For personalized advice and to learn more about PGT testing, reach out to Evara Fertility today. Our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.
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