Infertility and genetic disorders can be significant challenges for couples trying to conceive. Many genetic and chromosomal abnormalities can lead to implantation failure, recurrent pregnancy loss, or serious health conditions in newborns. Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) and Pre-implantation Genetic Testing (PGT) are advanced techniques that help detect genetic abnormalities in embryos before implantation, increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby.
At Samarth IVF, we are committed to providing cutting-edge fertility treatments, and PGD/PGT plays a crucial role in ensuring the best outcomes for our patients.
Understanding Chromosomal and Genetic Abnormalities
Every human being has 46 chromosomes, inherited in pairs—23 from the mother and 23 from the father. These chromosomes contain genetic instructions that determine our traits and biological functions. However, errors in cell division can lead to chromosomal abnormalities, which can impact fertility and pregnancy.
These abnormalities can be classified into two main types:
- Numerical Abnormalities – Extra or missing chromosomes (e.g., Down syndrome, Turner syndrome).
- Structural Abnormalities – A missing, duplicated, or incorrectly positioned chromosome segment (e.g., translocations, deletions).
Additionally, certain monogenic disorders (caused by mutations in a single gene) can be passed from parents to children, leading to conditions such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, hemophilia, Huntington’s disease, and fragile X syndrome.
PGD/PGT helps identify embryos with these abnormalities before implantation, reducing the risk of genetic disorders and increasing the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
Step-by-Step Process of Pre-Implantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
PGD/PGT is a highly specialized process performed during In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). It involves screening embryos for genetic abnormalities before transferring them to the uterus.
The PGT Process at Samarth IVF:
- Initial Consultation – A detailed evaluation of the couple’s medical and genetic history.
- Genetic Screening – In some cases, prior genetic testing is required to detect any hereditary disorders.
- Treatment Plan – The fertility specialist designs a personalized plan, starting with ovarian stimulation.
- Egg Retrieval – Mature eggs are retrieved from the ovaries during an IVF cycle.
- Fertilization – Eggs are fertilized in the laboratory to create embryos.
- Embryo Biopsy – On day 5 or 6 of development (blastocyst stage), a few cells are carefully removed from the embryo.
- Cryopreservation – The embryos are frozen while genetic testing is performed.
- Genetic Analysis – The removed cells undergo detailed chromosomal and genetic testing.
- Embryo Selection & Transfer – Only healthy embryos without genetic abnormalities are selected for implantation.
By using PGD/PGT, unsuccessful transfers due to chromosomal defects can be avoided, significantly increasing the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.
Who Should Consider PGT?
PGD/PGT is recommended for:
✔️ Couples where one partner has a dominant genetic disorder (50% risk of passing it on).
✔️ Couples where the mother carries an X-linked genetic disorder (e.g., hemophilia, fragile X syndrome).
✔️ Couples where both partners are carriers of a recessive disorder (25% risk of passing it on).
✔️ Couples with a history of recurrent miscarriages due to chromosomal abnormalities.
✔️ Women over the age of 35 who are at higher risk for chromosomal abnormalities.
✔️ Couples undergoing IVF with unexplained implantation failures.
Common genetic conditions that can be detected through PGT include:
- Cystic fibrosis
- Sickle cell anemia
- Huntington’s disease
- Thalassemia
- Fragile X syndrome
- Marfan syndrome
The Benefits of PGT at Samarth IVF
Increased Pregnancy Success – Only healthy embryos are transferred, improving implantation rates.
Reduced Risk of Genetic Disorders – Helps prevent serious hereditary conditions.
Fewer Miscarriages – Detects abnormalities that could lead to pregnancy loss.
Personalized Treatment – Tailored to each couple’s unique genetic background.
Greater Peace of Mind – Parents can be reassured that their child will not inherit a known disorder.
Pre-implantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a revolutionary advancement in fertility care, offering hope and assurance to couples with genetic concerns. At Samarth IVF, we use state-of-the-art technology to ensure the healthiest possible pregnancy outcomes for our patients.
If you are struggling with infertility or have a family history of genetic disorders, PGT could be the right option for you. Book a consultation with our expert fertility specialists today and take a step toward a healthy, happy future for your family.