In many cases, embryos fail to implant or very early miscarriage occurs because of serious chromosomal abnormalities. In addition, some patients have risk factors that make the chances of genetic abnormalities or genetic diseases more likely. In such cases, preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) or preimplantation genetic screening may be used.

About PGD Testing

During PGD testing, the embryologist evaluates the embryos for genetic abnormalities at several points throughout their development in-vitro, before they are transferred to the uterus. PGD can take several forms, depending on the couple's needs.

If a woman has had numerous miscarriages with no clear cause, a chromosomal problem known as translocation may be at fault. PGD testing allows the embryologist to identify embryos with this problem, and only transfer embryos that are healthy. Some couples know that they are carriers for serious genetic conditions, such as sickle cell anemia or cystic fibrosis. For genetic conditions with a specific gene that can be tested for, embryos can be screened for the specific disease, and only healthy embryos will be transferred. This can greatly reduce the chances of genetic disease in infants. However, PGD testing can only be used to screen for specific genetic disorders - it cannot yet be used to screen indiscriminately for all genetic disorders.‍

About Preimplantation Genetic Screening

‍Even if a couple does not have a need for in-depth PGD testing, preimplantation genetic screening can still be valuable. During this procedure, the embryologist takes biopsies from the embryos, but does a more limited form of testing. The embryos are examined to ensure that all 46 chromosomes are present, and that the embryos appear normal. This way, only embryos that seem to be healthy will be transferred, and the success rates for IVF are substantially increased.

‍Costs

‍PGD is a complex procedure that requires a lot of laboratory work, so the cost can be significant. At IVF1, we provide basic preimplantation genetic screening with every IVF cycle. The total cost of a full IVF cycle, including preimplantation screening, is $20-25,000. We also offer PGS for an additional fee. Testing for 4 embryos costs $2,500; after that, each additional embryo is $250. PGD for specific genetic abnormalities requires the development of a "probe". Probe development can run from $2500-$5000 depending on the genetic mutation being tested. If you are interested in IVF, Dr. Randy Morris would be happy to hear from you. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call IVF1 at (630) 357-6540.