PGD and PGS/PGT-A are not standalone treatments; they are additional steps within an IVF cycle. Here’s a simplified overview:

1. IVF Cycle: You'll go through the standard IVF process: ovarian stimulation to produce multiple eggs, egg retrieval, and fertilization with sperm in the lab.
2. Embryo Development: The fertilized eggs (embryos) are cultured in the lab for several days, typically to the blastocyst stage (day 5 or 6).
3. Embryo Biopsy: A highly skilled embryologist carefully removes a small sample of cells (usually 5-10) from the part of the embryo that will form the placenta (the trophectoderm). This procedure is done with precision to minimize risk to the embryo.
4. Genetic Testing: These cells are sent to a specialized genetics lab for PGD or PGS/PGT-A testing. The embryos are usually frozen while awaiting the results.
5. Results & Decision: Once the results are back, we'll discuss them with you in detail. This information helps us select the embryo(s) most likely to result in a healthy pregnancy for transfer.

Embryo Transfer: Based on the results and your personalized plan, a selected embryo is thawed and transferred to your uterus in a subsequent cycle.

These tests aren't necessary for everyone undergoing IVF, but they can be particularly helpful in certain situations. Your doctor at [Practice Name] will discuss if they might be right for you based on your unique history. Common reasons include:

• For PGD:
  • You or your partner carry a known single-gene disorder.
  • You or your partner have a chromosomal rearrangement (like a translocation).
  • You have a family history of a specific genetic condition that could be passed on.
• For PGS/PGT-A:
  • Advanced Maternal Age: Women aged 35 and older have a statistically higher chance of producing eggs with chromosomal abnormalities.
  • Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: Multiple miscarriages can sometimes be linked to chromosomal issues in the embryos.
  • Repeated IVF Failure: When seemingly good-quality embryos haven't resulted in pregnancy after multiple transfers.
  • Previous Pregnancy with Chromosome Abnormality: Having had a prior pregnancy affected by aneuploidy.
  • Severe Male Factor Infertility: Some sperm issues can be associated with a higher risk of aneuploidy.

It's important to have a thorough discussion with your fertility specialist to understand if these tests align with your personal circumstances and goals.

The goal of PGD and PGS/PGT-A is ultimately to increase your chances of having a healthy baby. Potential benefits can include:

• Increased Implantation Rate: Transferring a chromosomally normal (euploid) embryo may increase the likelihood of it implanting successfully in the uterus.
• Reduced Miscarriage Risk: Since many early miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities, selecting euploid embryos can lower this risk.
• Reduced Risk of Genetic Disorders: PGD significantly reduces the risk of having a child affected by the specific inherited condition being tested for.
• Increased Chance of Singleton Pregnancy: By confidently selecting the best embryo, it often supports the transfer of a single embryo, reducing the risks associated with multiple pregnancies.
• Potentially Fewer IVF Cycles: By identifying embryos with the highest potential sooner, it might shorten the time to achieve a successful pregnancy and potentially reduce the number of transfer cycles needed.

Peace of Mind: For many women and couples, the information gained provides reassurance during a challenging process.

While PGD/PGS offer significant advantages, it's important to have a balanced perspective:

• Not a Guarantee: These tests increase chances but don't guarantee pregnancy or a live birth. Other factors still play a role.
• Requires IVF: Accessing these tests means undergoing the IVF process itself.
• Procedure Risk: While generally considered safe, there's a very small theoretical risk to the embryo from the biopsy procedure.
• No Test is Perfect: There's a small chance of inconclusive results, or misdiagnosis (though accuracy rates are very high). Sometimes, complex results like "mosaicism" (where an embryo has a mix of normal and abnormal cells) occur, requiring careful discussion.
• Doesn't Screen for Everything: PGD targets specific known disorders, and PGS/PGT-A checks chromosome numbers. They don't screen for all possible genetic issues or birth defects.
• Emotional & Financial Aspect: Adding genetic testing involves emotional considerations and additional costs to the IVF cycle.

We know this is a lot to take in. Our team, including dedicated nurses and counselors, is here to answer every question, address your concerns, and provide the emotional support you need throughout this process. Your well-being is our priority.