Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGD) is a screening test that can be performed on embryos created by in vitro fertilization (IVF) to genetically analyze the embryos prior to transfer. IVF is a requirement to obtain embryos for PGD. Once the eggs are retrieved and fertilized in the lab, the embryologist will perform assisted hatching of the embryos to help obtain cells for analysis. When the embryo reaches the blastocyst stage, some of the cells on the outside of the embryo are biopsied and sent for genetic analysis.
Why? Who does it help?
One of the most common reasons why an embryo transfer does not result in a pregnancy is due to abnormal embryonic genetics. PGT can ensure that the embryo selected for transfer has the correct number of chromosomes, reducing the chances of a failed IVF cycle and reducing the chance of miscarriage.
It is intended to help rectify one of these fundamental flaws:
Women older than 37 years (due to an increased risk of abnormal embryonic genetics with normal reproductive aging).
Couples who are at risk of having a child affected by an inherited genetic disease.
History of recurrent spontaneous abortions due to chromosomal abnormalities.