Pre-implantation Genetic Testing During the IVF Process – Screening (PGS) and Diagnosis (PGD)

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a procedure used during IVF to screen embryos for genetic disorders before implantation.

Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) analyses biopsied cells from the embryo to screen for potential genetic abnormalities when there are no known potentially inherited disorders.

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) on the other hand, uses the same process to detect a specific disorder that has a high probability of being passed down from parents to their offspring.

There are several types of PGT, with criteria for testing based on parental or sperm/egg donor history and include PGT-A (for aneuploidy), PGT-M (for monogenic diseases), and PGT-SR (for structural rearrangements).

PGT can help reduce the risk of genetic disorders, improve IVF success rates, and assist in family planning. However, it has limitations, including potential risks, costs, and ethical considerations. It’s important to consult with genetic counselors to understand its implications.

Visit this Washington University Fertility & Reproductive Medicine site for more information on PGT.