Preimplantation Testing in Embryos

There are a number of treatment options available for those suffering from infertility.  If in vitro fertilization is the treatment that best suits your particular situation, there are two types of genetic testing that can be done at Utah Fertility Center,  during the IVF process. Preimplantation genetic diagnosis and preimplantation genetic screening are used for different reasons but each can provide valuable information to help identify certain diseases and chromosomal abnormalities in embryos.

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)
If you or your partner is a known carrier for a genetic disorder such as myotonic muscular dystrophy, fragile X syndrome or cystic fibrosis, PGD can be done to screen the embryos and identify those affected by that specific genetic disorder.   Following fertilization, when the embryo is in the blastocyst stage, a  biopsy is performed and cells are sent to an outside lab that specializes in screening and testing of embryos.  In the meantime, the embryo can be placed in cryopreservation until the results of the analysis have been received and the following month, a frozen embryo transfer (FET) can be done.  Success rates of FET’s are in the same range if not slightly higher than those of fresh transfers.

Preimplantation Genetic Screening
This test screens for abnormal chromosome number.  Some abnormal embryos will not be compatible with life and others may result in complications such as Down Syndrome and increased risk of implantation failure or miscarriage.  If you have struggled with unsuccessful IVF or recurrent pregnancy loss, we may recommend the genetic testing of embryos.

Our reproductive endocrinologists are committed to helping you have the healthy, beautiful family you want. We invite you to contact Utah Fertility Center at 801-785-5100 today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options for fertility treatment in Pleasant Grove, Utah.