Pre-implantation Genetic Testing

Pre-implantation Genetic Testing

In the rapidly advancing field of reproductive medicine, one of the most groundbreaking advancements has been pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT). This technique is utilized in conjunction with in vitro fertilization (IVF) to screen embryos for specific genetic conditions before implantation into the uterus. Avira Fertility Hospitals provide you the most advanced PGT facilities, all under one roof.

What is Pre-implantation Genetic Testing?

PGT refers to the genetic testing of embryos produced through IVF before they are implanted into the uterus. This can be done for a variety of reasons, including:

• PGT-A (for aneuploidies): To screen embryos for the correct number of chromosomes.
• PGT-M (for monogenic/single gene defects): To test for known inherited genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis or Huntington’s disease.
• PGT-SR (for structural rearrangements): To test for chromosomal rearrangements which can lead to miscarriage or genetic disorders.

Benefits of PGT:

1. Increased Chance of Pregnancy: By ensuring that only embryos without specific genetic conditions are transferred, the chances of successful implantation and pregnancy increase.
2. Reduced Risk of Genetic Disorders: Parents who are carriers of inherited genetic conditions can significantly reduce the risk of passing these on to their children.
3. Lower Miscarriage Rates: By detecting embryos with chromosomal abnormalities that could lead to miscarriage, PGT can reduce the risk of pregnancy loss.

Avira Fertility hospitals ensures highest standards in PGT to help you reap maximum benefits of it.

Considerations:

While PGT offers numerous advantages, there are ethical and medical considerations to bear in mind:

1. False Positives/Negatives: No test is perfect. There can occasionally be false positives or negatives, leading to potentially viable embryos being discarded or affected embryos being implanted.
2. Ethical Concerns: The idea of selecting embryos based on genetic content raises ethical questions about the value of all human life and the potential for “designer babies.”
3. Cost: PGT adds to the already significant cost of IVF procedures.

In Conclusion, Pre-implantation genetic testing is a powerful tool in reproductive medicine, helping countless families to have healthy babies and avoid certain genetic conditions. However, like all medical procedures, it comes with both benefits and challenges. It is essential for prospective parents to be well-informed and consult with specialists to make the best decision for their unique circumstances.