Pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) is a vital process carried out during in vitro fertilization (IVF). At TFP Fertility, we provide three types of PGT aimed at identifying genetic disorders in embryos, ultimately aiming to lower the chances of miscarriages.
What is PGT?
If there’s a genetic condition in your family, PGT can help minimize the risk of passing that condition to your child. This testing procedure is designed to prevent genetic and chromosomal abnormalities from being inherited. Each embryo undergoes thorough screening for potential disorders, which can significantly reduce the likelihood of miscarriage and the risk of transmitting inherited diseases.
Types of PGT
There are three main types of PGT:
- PGT-M: This is the previously known pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), which tests for over 1,700 genetic conditions such as cystic fibrosis and Huntington’s disease.
- PGT-SR: This type checks for structural chromosomal changes that could lead to genetic issues or miscarriage.
- PGT-A: This tests for an abnormal number of chromosomes in embryos, helping to reduce miscarriage risks.
Where Does PGT Fit in the IVF Journey?
It’s an additional test performed during the blastocyst stage. After fertilization, eggs are cultured in a lab, and by days five or six, they reach the blastocyst stage, ready for implantation. The embryologist carefully takes a cell sample from the blastocyst using a thin needle, which is then sent to the Cooper Genomic laboratory in London for assessment. It’s essential to note that while PGT is beneficial, there’s a small risk of embryo damage during the biopsy.
Once the biopsy is completed, the embryos are frozen until we receive the results from Cooper Genomics. The results can take up to four weeks, and we understand that waiting can be stressful. At TFP, we prioritize keeping you updated throughout this process, and you’ll be the first to know the results as soon as they arrive.
What Happens After the Results?
If the test results show that the embryos are unaffected, you can proceed with the embryo transfer. However, there’s no guarantee that any of the biopsied embryos will be suitable for transfer; all of them might be affected. In case there are no healthy embryos, your consultant will guide you through your options.
Success Stories
At TFP Fertility, we celebrate many success stories where patients have undergone PGT and welcomed healthy babies. For instance, Emma and Jake faced fertility challenges due to Emma’s PCOS diagnosis, but with the help of PGT, they were able to build their family. Similarly, Sarah’s journey was marked by an inherited condition, but thanks to PGT, she achieved her dream of motherhood. You can read more about other inspiring journeys and tips on pregnancy in our blog, such as the one about 4 weeks pregnant.
Need More Information?
If you have any questions or concerns about PGT, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. For more information, check out Make a Mom, a great resource in this area. You can also explore Wikipedia’s page for additional insights on artificial insemination.
In Summary
PGT is a crucial step in IVF that helps identify genetic disorders before embryo implantation, reducing the risk of inherited conditions and miscarriages. It’s performed during the blastocyst stage, and the results can guide your next steps towards building a family.