Preimplantation Genetic Screening: How It Works in IVF and Its Benefits

For couples undergoing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), the journey is often paved with both hope and anxiety. One of the most significant advancements in reproductive medicine that has helped increase the success rates of these procedures is preimplantation genetic screening. By allowing embryologists to look at the genetic health of an embryo before it is transferred to the uterus, this technology ensures that parents have the best possible chance of a healthy pregnancy.

At MedGenome, we are pioneers in reproductive genetics. Through our advanced Claria PGT-A solutions, we bring world-class preimplantation genetic screening to clinics across India, helping families turn their dreams of parenthood into reality.

What is Preimplantation Genetic Screening?

Preimplantation genetic screening (now commonly referred to as PGT-A) is a technique used to identify chromosomal abnormalities in embryos created through IVF.

Every human cell should ideally have 46 chromosomes (23 pairs). An embryo with the wrong number of chromosomes—known as aneuploidy—is the leading cause of IVF failure, miscarriages, and certain birth defects like Down syndrome. Preimplantation genetic screening acts as a vital quality check, identifying which embryos are "euploid" (having the correct number of chromosomes) and which are "aneuploid."

How the Process Works

The integration of preimplantation genetic screening into an IVF cycle follows a precise, multi-step clinical workflow:

Embryo Culture: Eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory, and the resulting embryos are grown for 5 to 6 days until they reach the blastocyst stage.

The Biopsy: A few cells are carefully removed from the trophectoderm (the part of the embryo that will eventually become the placenta). This process does not harm the inner cell mass that becomes the baby.

Vitrification: While the cells are sent for testing, the embryos are safely frozen (vitrified).

Genetic Analysis: At the MedGenome laboratory, we use Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to analyze the DNA from the biopsied cells.

Transfer: Based on the report, the doctor selects the most genetically healthy embryo for a frozen embryo transfer (FET).

Key Benefits of Preimplantation Genetic Screening

Choosing to include preimplantation genetic screening in your fertility journey offers several clinical and emotional advantages:

Increased Pregnancy Rates: By selecting only chromosomally normal embryos, the likelihood of successful implantation is significantly higher.

Reduced Miscarriage Risk: Most first-trimester miscarriages are caused by chromosomal issues. Screening helps avoid these heartbreaking outcomes.

Lower Risk of Multiple Births: Because doctors are more confident in the quality of a single screened embryo, they can avoid transferring multiple embryos, reducing the risks associated with twin or triplet pregnancies.

Faster Time to Pregnancy: Patients often spend less time going through multiple unsuccessful IVF cycles by getting it right the first time.

Who Should Consider This Screening?

While preimplantation genetic screening can benefit many IVF patients, it is particularly recommended for:

Women over the age of 35 (Advanced Maternal Age).

Couples who have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss.

Couples with multiple failed IVF cycles.

Individuals with a history of chromosomal abnormalities.

Why Choose MedGenome for PGT-A?

When it comes to the future of your family, precision is everything. MedGenome utilizes the most advanced NGS platforms to ensure that every preimplantation genetic screening report is accurate and actionable.

Our laboratory is CAP-accredited, and our team of experts provides comprehensive support, including genetic counseling, to help you and your fertility specialist interpret the findings and make the best decision for your transfer.

Conclusion

Preimplantation genetic screening has transformed the landscape of assisted reproduction, moving the focus from "quantity" of embryos to "quality." By ensuring that only the healthiest embryos are given the chance to grow, MedGenome helps parents-to-be minimize risks and maximize their chances of bringing a healthy baby home.