Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)

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Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) in Miami and South Florida

An abnormal number of chromosomes is one of the major contributors to miscarriages and may also explain some IVF implantation failures. For patients with known genetic diseases, translocations, or those who are “older” or suffer from recurrent miscarriages, pre-genetic testing can improve your chances of having a healthy baby by screening embryos for potential genetic abnormalities.

Another use of this technology is for “advanced maternal age ” (generally defined as over age 34). As maternal age increases so does the incidence of chromosomal abnormalities, resulting in decreased fertility, an increased risk of miscarriage, and infants born with chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down Syndrome.

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Types of Preimplantation Genetic Testing

IVFMD offers the following pre-implantation genetic tests for embryos.

Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic / Single Gene Defects (PGT-M)

Formerly known as preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), PGT-M is a procedure that screens for and detects the presence of genes for specific diseases, such as Cystic Fibrosis, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Sickle Cell Disease, Tay-Sachs, and other genetic diseases in embryos. This test is especially important when one or both parents have a known genetic disease or are carriers of a genetic disease. Prior to implantation, the embryos are analyzed so that only unaffected embryos are transferred.

Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A)

Formerly known as preimplantation genetic screening (PGS), PGT-A is when embryos are examined to determine if they have a normal number of chromosomes (which should be 46). The PGT-A technique allows our laboratory to select embryos that have the highest chance of having the correct number of chromosomes. There is preliminary evidence to suggest that aneuploidy screening (screening embryos for the normal number of chromosomes) in certain couples may improve their odds of a having successful pregnancy with IVF since:

  • Embryos selected have an improved potential for implantation, increasing the likelihood of pregnancy.
  • Chosen embryos have a decreased rate of spontaneous loss, lessening the chances of miscarriage.
  • The chances of having a baby with chromosomal abnormalities are greatly reduced.

The PGT Process

In both PGT-M and PGT-AS, a micromanipulator and laser are used to remove a small sample of cells for analysis. Unlike prior methods of genetic testing, ALL chromosomes are analyzed (older technologies only examined a handful). Embryos that are free of selected genetic diseases or that possess the normal number of chromosomes can be selected for subsequent transfer.

PGT FAQs

  • Candidates for family balancing include those who have a child of one gender (sex) and desire a child of the opposite gender, and those with more than one child but the number of one gender outnumbers the other gender they desire (“unbalanced”). If you meet and agree with our strict criteria, we can help you balance your family.

  • PGT is recommended for couples with a history of genetic disorders, women of advanced maternal age, those who have experienced recurrent miscarriages, and individuals with certain chromosomal abnormalities or who are carriers of genetic diseases.

  • While PGT significantly reduces the risk of genetic disorders and increases the chances of a successful pregnancy, it does not guarantee a healthy baby. Other factors, such as environmental influences and general health, also play a role in the pregnancy outcome.

  • Yes, PGT is generally considered safe. The biopsy involves removing a few cells from the embryo, which typically does not harm its development. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks, which your doctor will discuss with you.

  • The PGT process typically takes several days to a week. After the embryos are biopsied, the genetic analysis is conducted, and the results are available within approximately 14 days. Your fertility clinic will provide a more specific timeline based on your treatment plan.

Schedule a Consultation for Preimplantation Genetic Testing in South Florida

If you are concerned about your fertility or the possibility of having a miscarriage, know that preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can help you successfully have a child. Take the first step to realizing your dream of becoming a parent by scheduling a consultation for PGT with IVFMD in Boca Raton, Cooper City, Jupiter, Miami, Naples, or Viera, FL.

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