What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing – Aneuploidy Screening?
This is a procedure which screens or tests the embryos produced out of IVF to check if it has the right number of chromosomes. This is conducted prior to implantation of the embryo in the womb. Wrong number of chromosomes is one of the most common reasons for the failure of IVF treatments and PGT-A attempts redress this issue.
Who is PGT-A suitable for?
Since older women are more likely to have eggs with the wrong number of chromosomes, this procedure is suitable for them. However, men can also have sperms with abnormal number of chromosomes and such couples can benefit from PGT-A. Couples who had many failed attempts at IVF treatment and women who have had two are more miscarriages should consider PGT-A.
What does PGT-A involve?
PGT-A is advocated in certain situations to increase the chances of transferring a genetically normal embryo, and minimizing the chance of a miscarriage, while maximizing the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
Woman is given fertility injections to produce plenty of eggs. These are then fertilized through direct injection of sperm into egg. Embryos are allowed to develop for 5 – 6 days, and only a few of them will develop into healthy embryos after 5 – 6 days.
A few cells are micro surgically removed from the healthy embryos and the embryos are frozen.
The cells are then shipped to a genetic laboratory which analyzes the cells to determine which of them have the right number of chromosomes. We will thus know which of the embryos are suitable for implantation.
The Woman takes hormones for a few weeks to prepare uterine lining for embryo transfer.
On the day of transfer, the embryo is thawed and transferred.
What to expect post procedure?
After embryo transfer you may resume your normal activities, as moving around enhances blood flow to the uterus. However, this is not necessary and you can do what feels right for you. The first pregnancy tests begin two weeks after ET because the hormone used to trigger ovulation is the same as the one used to test for pregnancy, and since it might still linger in the bloodstream it could result in false results. The IVF center would advise you in matters taking into consideration your unique makeup
What are the risks involved?
Extraction of cells from the embryo can cause damage to the embryo and prevent it from developing after transferring. Also since a few cells need not represent the embryo, a healthy embryo may give a negative test result. There is the added risk that all of the embryos are found to have abnormal chromosomes, so there are no embryos available for implantation.
Fertility Services Offered
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
IVF is a fertility treatment that involves fertilizing eggs with sperm in a laboratory setting. It is commonly used for various infertility issues, such as blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count, or unexplained infertility.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
IUI is a procedure in which washed and concentrated sperm are directly placed into the uterus during the woman’s ovulation period. It is often recommended for couples with mild male factor infertility, cervical factor infertility, or unexplained infertility.
Fertility Preservation (Egg Freezing, Sperm Freezing, Embryo Freezing)
Fertility preservation allows individuals or couples to preserve their reproductive cells (eggs, sperm, or embryos) for future use. It is commonly chosen by those who want to delay childbearing due to personal or medical reasons.
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
PGT is a specialized genetic testing procedure performed on embryos before they are transferred to the uterus during an IVF cycle. It helps identify genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities in embryos, allowing for the selection of healthy embryos for transfer.
Laparoscopy and Hysteroscopy
These minimally invasive surgical procedures are used to diagnose and treat various reproductive conditions. Laparoscopy involves inserting a small camera through tiny incisions to examine the pelvic organs, while hysteroscopy involves inserting a thin tube with a camera through the cervix to visualize the inside of the uterus.
Ovulation Induction
Ovulation induction involves the use of medications to stimulate the ovaries to release eggs. It is commonly used in cases of hormonal imbalances or ovulation disorders to increase the chances of natural conception or enhance the success of assisted reproductive technologies.
High-Risk Pregnancy Care
Aspire Fertility Center provides comprehensive care for women with high-risk pregnancies, including close monitoring, specialized testing, and personalized treatment plans to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and baby.
Counseling and Emotional Support
Alongside the medical services, Aspire Fertility Center offers counseling and emotional support to individuals and couples undergoing fertility treatments. These services provide guidance, coping strategies, and a supportive environment to address the emotional challenges that may arise during the fertility journey.
Note: The services offered may vary depending on the specific fertility center and the expertise of the fertility medical professionals. It is advisable to consult with Aspire Fertility Center directly for detailed information and personalized recommendations.
