Genetic Testing

IVF Genetic Testing of Embryos

With the IVF procedure, it is possible to test the genetics of embryos. This is done by taking a biopsy. A small sample of cells is taken from the embryo and evaluated using the genetic information from the cells.

Embryo genetic testing gives us additional information on the health of the embryo. This testing is most commonly performed to tell us how many chromosomes an embryo has. Additional testing can be performed to screen embryos for specific diseases, which may be indicated based on a patient’s history.

Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) screens IVF embryos for the correct number of chromosomes before transfer, helping identify embryos that may have a higher chance of resulting in a healthy pregnancy. It is commonly considered for patients of advanced maternal age, those with recurrent pregnancy loss, or prior failed IVF cycles. At Damien Fertility Partners, embryos are biopsied during the IVF cycle and tested through a partner genetics lab. PGT-A can help identify chromosomally normal embryos, but it does not guarantee a healthy pregnancy or live birth.