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Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) and Its Use in the Enhancement of IVF Performance

October 18, 2024
Genetic Testing

In vitro fertilization (IVF) has become one of the most preferred fertility treatments. It offers hope to childless couples by significantly increasing their chances of having children. One of the improvements made in IVF is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT). 

PGT involves screening embryos for congenital diseases before implanting them into the uterus. Thus, this technology increases the chances of getting pregnant and giving birth to healthy babies. Knowing how PGD works can help you in choosing the process you will follow to become a parent. 

This blog focuses on PGT, its process, and how this new technology has become widespread due to its commendable benefits. 

Preimplantation Genetic Testing

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a secondary technique associated with IVF treatment that allows the genetic characteristics of embryos to be identified. The PGT commences with collecting a few cells from the embryos developed through the IVF method. 

Then, the retrieved cells are tested to detect any genetic variations in the developing embryo. This test is performed at an early stage after IVF to identify chromosomal or genetic defects and promote healthy embryos that are most likely to lead to a successful pregnancy.

There are different types of PGT, each serving a specific purpose:

PGT-A (Aneuploidy Test)

PGT-A tests for extra or missing chromosomes (aneuploidies), which might lead to Down’s syndrome. PGT-A is usually recommended for patients who have had multiple IVF failures, a previous or child with specific chromosomal disorders such as Down syndrome, Turner’s syndrome, and Patau’s syndrome. 

Although PGT-A may be performed for any IVF cycle, some advantages and disadvantages must be explained by your doctor before deciding on PGT-A for you.

PGT-M (Monogenic Test)

PGT-M process directly looks for certain hereditary metabolic diseases, including cystic fibrosis or Hunter’s disease. By avoiding the transfer of embryos with genetic disorders, patients can give birth to healthy children.

PGT-SR (Structural Rearrangements)

PGT-SR detects chromosomal structural changes, such as translocations or inversions, that could lead to miscarriage or genetic disorders. It helps to identify embryos with balanced chromosomes, reducing genetic risks. A person with structural rearrangements is likely to pass those genes to their children. PGT-SR can detect embryos that effectively lack certain pieces of chromosomes.

Preimplantation Genetic Testing Procedure

The PGT process is carefully integrated after the IVF procedure and is performed under the supervision of experts at the best IVF clinics in Delhi. Here is the step-by-step PGT procedure:

  • Ovarian Stimulation: The ovaries are purposely stimulated with hormones to produce multiple eggs simultaneously, generating embryos for genetic testing. 
  • Egg Retrieval:  The eggs are collected from the patient’s ovaries by giving general anaesthesia. Thеsе collеctеd еggs undergo further testing for the identification of mature eggs. 
  • Insemination: The semen sample is collected from the donor through ejaculation. Sperm cells are required to fertilise the egg under In-vitro conditions.
  • Fertilisation: Both egg and sperm are set up jointly in a culture dish so that fertilisation can occur naturally. An embryologist carefully examines each egg to determine whether fertilisation was successful.
  • Embryo Biopsy: During this biopsy, a few cells from the trophectoderm, or outer layer, which will eventually form the placenta, are removed. It is important to note that this procedure does not damage the embryo when performed by qualified and experienced personnel. 
  • Embryo Testing: The extracted cells are tested to see whether the embryo from which they were taken had a specific genetic abnormality responsible for the inflammatory condition (PGT-M) or any chromosomal defects (PGT-A).
  • Embryo transfer: Only embryos that do not have any chromosomal abnormalities or genetic disease are selected for implantation.

Selecting the Correct IVF Clinic for PGT

Choosing the best IVF in Delhi might feel exhausting, but before choosing one, always make sure that the clinic provides PGT service. Here are the factors to consider when looking  for the best IVF clinic for PGT:

  • Laboratory facilities: PGT needs more sophisticated genetics analysis, which requires highly equipped machines. The best fertility centre in Delhi must have such machines and should run tests that cannot be conducted in every clinic. 
  • Experienced fertility specialists: It is important to underline that the outcomes of the procedure, mainly in the case of PGT, depend upon the skills of doctors and embryologists. 
  • Personalised care: Treatment for infertility is a very private endeavour, and every couple has their own story. The best fertility Centre in Delhi should assure the patient that their details are encrypted. They should make the patient feel comfortable and ensure the best treatment plan that suits their needs and history.

Bottom Line

Preimplantation Genetic Testing has revolutionised the IVF process through increased implantation success, decreased miscarriage rates, and a couple’s ability to make better decisions regarding their potential offspring’s genetic makeup. 

A PGT may not guarantee a healthy pregnancy but increases the chances of a successful one. Want to join the list of parents who had successful IVF and PGD treatment? Choose the best IVF in Delhi, Nandi IVF Fertility Centre. We have over 80% IVF success stories and 20 years of experience with state-of-the-art technology to help smoothen the process.

Sr. IVF Specialist & Medical Director at NANDI IVF
Dr. Payal Bajaj is an experienced Obstetrician & Gynecologist with over 20 years of experience in the discipline. She is a Reproductive Endocrinologist & Infertility Specialist. She has Done MBBS From the Renowned Lady Hardinge Medical College. DGO from the prestigious VMMC & Safdarjang Hospital, DMAS From World Laparoscopy Hospital.

She has Completed Her esteemed ASPIRE -ISAR Fellowship in the field of Reproductive Medicine from AFGC, Delhi And St' Mother's Hospital Japan.She has also been trained from the University of KEIL Germany. She has won various academic awards all through her academic career.
Dr. Payal Bajaj

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