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Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) in IVF Treatments

laboratory testing

Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) offers substantial benefits during In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatments as a powerful screening tool to detect genetic abnormalities in embryos. There are three ​main types of PGT available:

  1. PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy) is the most commonly performed type of genetic testing on embryos. It aims to identify aneuploidy, which occurs when embryos have an abnormal number of chromosomes. A common example, for instance, is Down syndrome, which is characterized by an extra chromosome 21. Detecting chromosomally normal (euploid) embryos can minimize miscarriage risks and enhance the odds of successful embryo transfer. PGT-A also allows prospective parents to know the sex of the embryos if they wish.
  2. PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Single Gene Disorders): PGT-M is crucial for couples who are at an increased risk of having a child affected by a single-gene disorder. P​GT-M may be indicated if both partners are carriers of an autosomal recessive gene, like Cystic Fibrosis, or in cases where there is a risk of inheriting a mutation from one parent, such as with Marfan Syndrome or the BRCA gene.
  3. PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements): This testing is advised for patients with structural rearrangement of their chromosomes, ​which can mean a missing or duplicated piece of a chromosome or chromosomes that are “packaged” incorrectly. Patients (or partners) with a chromosomal rearrangement often experience recurrent miscarriage.​ PGT-SR can help reduce the chances of miscarriage and prevent the inheritance of chromosomal abnormalities.

Choosing to undergo PGT as part of your IVF treatment is a deeply personal decision influenced by factors like age, genetic carrier status, medical history, and the number of embryos produced. It’s important to consult with your fertility specialist to tailor the approach that best suits your specific situation.

Do you have questions and want to learn more? For guidance and support, contact Damien Fertility Partners at 732-758-6511 or hello@damienfertilitypartners.com.