IVF and embryo genetic testing can increase the likelihood of having a healthy baby

All patients who visit Texas Fertility Center dream of welcoming a healthy baby into their lives. Our Austin IVF specialists offer many highly effective fertility treatments to make this dream become a reality. One of these options is embryo genetic testing in the form of PGT-A or PGT-M. We offer these tests as part of an IVF cycle to increase the likelihood of transferring a chromosomally normal embryo. The goal is to help our patients bring home a healthy baby.

A quick lesson in human genetics before discussing preimplantation genetic testing

Our bodies are made up of billions of cells. Each cell contains chromosomes, which are large packages of genes that tell our bodies how to grow and develop. Most people have 46 chromosomes, including a pair of sex chromosomes (XX for a female and XY for a male). For each pair, we inherit one chromosome from each parent.

In some cases, an embryo may have too many or too few chromosomes. It may also have an inheritable genetic illness. These issues can lead to embryo implantation failure, miscarriage or birth defects. For these reasons, our Austin IVF specialists may recommend embryo genetic testing if you’re pursuing IVF.

Exploring the different types of embryo genetic testing

In the world of preimplantation genetic testing, there are two general types: PGT-A and PGT-M. Our Austin IVF specialists can help you learn more about these different tests.

Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) was once called PGS. The name has changed, but the test itself hasn’t. The goal of PGT-A is to identify embryos that have too many or too few chromosomes. After receiving the test results, your doctor will only transfer a chromosomally normal embryo. Doing so increases the likelihood of having a healthy baby while decreasing the risk of miscarriage or birth defects.

Preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders (PGT-M) also underwent a name change. It was once called PGD. This test can identify which embryos have or carry a specific inheritable genetic illness.

Most of us carry one or more genetic illnesses. Thankfully, preconception genetic testing can determine whether you carry any of them. It involves a simple blood or saliva test.

If you and your partner both carry the same inheritable genetic illness, your doctor can order PGT-M. This type of embryo genetic testing involves taking a small sample of cells from each IVF embryo before sending them to a genetics lab for testing. Once we have the results, your doctor can transfer an embryo that does not have the disease.

Our Austin IVF specialists can work with you to determine whether embryo genetic testing is right for you and your family. Contact us to schedule an appointment and learn more.