Some fertility treatments, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), offer the ability to examine embryos prior to implantation in the uterus.
For patients undergoing IVF with a frozen embryo transfer, following egg retrieval and fertilization in our IVF lab, the highly skilled embryologists at NewLIFE Fertility can conduct preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) in order to determine if any of the embryos we’re monitoring fertilized embryos contain any genetic mutations that may lead to implantation failure, health conditions for the baby, or miscarriage.
Many of our practices across Mobile and Dothan, Alabama; Biloxi, Mississippi; and Destin, Tallahassee, Panama City, and Pensacola, Florida, offer pre-implantation genetic testing as an option as part of IVF treatment plans.
What Is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)?
Preimplantation genetic testing is a screening test that’s completed on embryos to determine if there are any genetic abnormalities, including the arrangement and number of chromosomes. These genetic differences can mean that the embryo may not implant properly or lead to genetic conditions in a child, such as Down Syndrome or Huntington’s Disease.
There are three types of preimplantation genetic testing:
- Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A)
- Preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders (PGT-M)
- Preimplantation genetic testing for structural rearrangements (PGT-SR)
You and your fertility specialist can discuss what testing may be needed depending on you and your partner’s family and medical history.
Who Should Consider Preimplantation Genetic Testing?
PGT is not recommended for everyone who undergoes fertility treatments to grow their family. Your fertility specialist may recommend genetic testing for the following:
- Women who are 38 years old or older
- Women who have experienced recurrent miscarriages
- If you or your partner have unexplained infertility
- If you or your partner have undergone unsuccessful fertility treatments
- If you or your partner are carriers for genetic conditions
You, your partner, and your fertility specialist may decide to complete PGT before your IVF cycle even begins. To determine if PGT is needed, you and your partner may undergo carrier screening testing yourselves if you are unsure of the genetic conditions you may carry.
Discuss PGT With Your Fertility Specialist
If you want to learn more about PGT and whether or not your embryos should undergo testing, speak with your fertility specialist at NewLIFE Fertility. Patients across Mobile and Dothan, AL; Biloxi, MS; or Destin, Tallahassee, Panama City, and Pensacola, FL, can schedule an appointment to discuss PGT by contacting their local NewLIFE Fertility center today.
