Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis

First performed in 1988, preimplantation genetic diagnosis, or PGD, has been helping couples undergoing IVF identify which of their embryos are healthiest and most suited for transfer. An advanced diagnostic test, PGD screens embryos for a variety of diseases and disorders.

PGD is done during IVF, once the eggs have been retrieved and fertilized but before the resulting embryos are transferred back to the uterus. Once a fertilized egg has reached between the four and ten cell stage of development, an embryologist will remove a single cell from the embryo and examine its genetic make-up for a range of chromosomal and genetic abnormalities, including:

• Cystic Fibrosis
• Down's syndrome
• Hemophilia
• Sickle cell disease
• Tay Sachs disease
• Huntington disease

Through PGD, embryologists are able to identify and transfer only those embryos that are shown to be the healthiest. As a result, a couple's chances of having a successful pregnancy are increased as genetic defects in an embryo are often a cause for miscarriage. Couples who employ ICSI may want to consider using PGD if their male infertility causes are potentially hereditary.

However, PGD is generally done just for those couples that have a known personal or family history of a disorder and are therefore at risk of passing the disorder on. Most fertility clinics, including the Center for Assisted Reproduction, make this advanced testing method available only in conjunction with IVF treatment.

To learn more about PGD and how it may help you, fill out the form below to have a representative from the Center for Assisted Reproduction contact you.