Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)

In some cases, couples that are carriers of genetic disorders are reluctant to become pregnant because they are at risk of passing the disorder to their children. Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is a procedure that can identify some genetic defects within an embryo before it is transferred into the uterus. It is also used in situations of repetitive miscarriages and to avoid aneuploidy (chromosomal problems such as downs syndrome).

The preimplantation genetic diagnosis procedure begins with the normal IVF process. Once the embryo is divided, preimplantation genetic diagnosis is performed at our IVF center

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis involves the following steps:

  • A single cell is removed from the embryo
  • The cell is treated with probes for abnormalities
  • The DNA is evaluated to determine if the inheritance of the gene is present

Once the preimplantation genetic diagnosis procedure is complete, and embryos without the genetic problems being tested have been identified, “normal” embryos are transferred into the uterus.

There are several benefits of preimplantation genetic diagnosis, such as decreasing the need for amniocentesis later in pregnancy. Preimplantation genetic diagnosis is performed before embryo implantation, so if a defect is identified, the couple can decide whether or not they want to continue with the pregnancy. Preimplantation genetic diagnosis enables couples that carry genetic disorders to try for a biological child of their own.

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis minimizes the risk of passing genetic defects on to future generations.

If you or your partner has a genetic condition that you are afraid of transmitting to your child, preimplantation genetic diagnosis may be a good option for you.

After the embryo biopsy the single cells are sent for analysis. The results of the biopsy are obtained within 24-48 hours. The following is a list of the laboratories we utilize for evaluation:

Good Start Genetics

237 Putnam Avenue

Cambridge, MA 02139

www.GoodStartGenetics.com

 

Genesis Genetics Institute, LLC
5555 Conner Avenue, Suite 1100
Detroit, MI 48213
Tel/fax 313-544-4006
www.genesisgenetics.org

Reprogenetics
3 Regent St.
Livingston, NJ 07039
Tel 973.436.5000
www.reprogenetics.com

Reproductive Genetics Institute
2825 North Halsted,
Chicago, Illinois 606573
Tel 773-472-4900
www.reproductivegenetics.com

Natera
201 Industrial Road, Suite 410
San Carlos, CA 94070
(650) 249-9090
www.genesecurity.net

Did You Know?

Fort Worth Fertility has the only free standing IVF lab in Fort Worth.