PREIMPLANTATION GENETIC TESTING (PGT)
Comprehensive Guide to Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
At Nicosia Fertility, we are proud to offer preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), an advanced diagnostic tool integrated into our IVF services. PGT provides a precise assessment of embryos for genetic abnormalities, enabling informed decisions that optimize pregnancy success while reducing risks of miscarriage or inherited genetic conditions. This advanced technology empowers individuals and couples to approach their fertility journey with confidence and clarity.
What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)?
Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is a sophisticated procedure that evaluates embryos created through in vitro fertilization (IVF). By examining the genetic makeup of embryos before implantation, PGT ensures that only the healthiest embryos are selected for transfer. This technique significantly enhances the likelihood of a successful pregnancy and minimizes the risk of transmitting genetic disorders to the next generation.
Why Consider PGT?
PGT offers numerous benefits to individuals and couples, including:
Higher IVF Success Rates
Selecting genetically normal embryos enhances the probability of successful implantation and pregnancy.
Reduced Risk of Miscarriage
Identifying and excluding embryos with chromosomal abnormalities decreases the likelihood of pregnancy loss.
Genetic Disorder Prevention
PGT can detect genetic conditions such as cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs disease, and Huntington’s disease, allowing parents to avoid passing these conditions to their child.
Family Balancing
For those seeking gender selection as part of their family planning, PGT offers a safe and accurate option.
Types of PGT
Screens for chromosomal abnormalities to ensure embryos have the correct number of chromosomes, reducing the risk of conditions like Down syndrome and miscarriages.
Detects specific inherited genetic mutations that cause disorders such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, or Huntington’s disease.
Identifies structural chromosomal abnormalities, such as translocations or inversions, which can hinder embryo viability or lead to congenital conditions.
Who Should Consider PGT?
Sperm donation is a viable and compassionate solution for a wide range of situations, including but not limited to:
1
Have a family history of genetic disorders or inherited conditions.
2
Have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss or failed IVF cycles.
3
Are women over 35, as age increases the risk of chromosomal abnormalities.
4
Wish to ensure the healthiest start for their future child by minimizing risks of genetic complications.
5
Medical Treatments
The PGT Process
1
Embryo Biopsy
On day five or six of development, a small sample of cells is carefully removed from the outer layer of the embryo. This layer becomes the placenta, leaving the embryonic cells untouched.
2
Genetic Analysis
The biopsied cells undergo rigorous examination in a genetics laboratory, often using next-generation sequencing (NGS) for detailed chromosomal and genetic analysis.
3
Embryo Selection
The testing results guide the selection of the healthiest embryos, which are then prepared for transfer to the uterus.
Advantages of PGT
Enhanced Pregnancy Success Rates
By selecting embryos with the highest potential for implantation and development.
Minimized Risk of Genetic Disorders
Reducing the likelihood of inherited conditions in the child.
Streamlined IVF Journey
Fewer cycles may be needed as genetically healthy embryos increase the success rate of each attempt.
Personalized Family Planning
Offering the opportunity to balance family dynamics with gender selection or other preferences.
Considerations and Limitations
While PGT offers remarkable benefits, it is important to be aware of the following:
1
Embryo Handling
The biopsy process is minimally invasive but carries a small risk of damage to embryos.
2
Testing Limitations
Although highly accurate, no test is 100% foolproof; rare false positives or negatives may occur.
3
Cost Implications
PGT adds to the cost of IVF, but it can save time and resources by increasing success rates and avoiding repeated cycles.
Cutting-Edge Genetic Testing at Nicosia Fertility
At Nicosia Fertility, we leverage state-of-the-art genetic testing technologies, including NGS, to deliver precise and reliable results. Our dedicated team collaborates closely with genetic counselors and specialists to provide a seamless and supportive experience, ensuring every decision is well-informed and aligned with your family goals.
Begin Your Journey with Confidence
Preimplantation genetic testing is more than a medical procedure—it’s a pathway to clarity and peace of mind. Whether you’re embarking on IVF or seeking to prevent inherited genetic conditions, PGT provides you with the tools to shape a healthy future for your family.
Contact us today to learn how PGT can complement your fertility journey at Nicosia Fertility. Together, we’ll take the next step toward building the family you’ve always envisioned.
FAQs for PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Testing)
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PGT is designed to identify genetic abnormalities in embryos before implantation, helping to reduce the risk of inherited genetic disorders and increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Yes, PGT allows for gender selection by analyzing the chromosomes of the embryos, which can also help prevent sex-linked genetic conditions or support family balancing.
PGT has a 99.9% accuracy rate in identifying chromosomal abnormalities, making it one of the most reliable methods for ensuring healthy embryos.
PGT can detect conditions such as Down Syndrome, Trisomy, Monosomy, Cystic Fibrosis, Thalassemia, Muscular Dystrophy, Hemophilia, and other single-gene disorders.
PGT is recommended for individuals or couples with a family history of genetic disorders, recurrent miscarriages, failed IVF attempts, advanced maternal age, or those undergoing gender selection for medical or personal reasons.
Cyprus offers advanced facilities, high success rates, and a more relaxed regulatory environment, allowing for procedures like gender selection and comprehensive genetic screening at competitive costs.
Depending on the method used (e.g., NGS, aCGH, or FISH), PGT can test either specific sets of chromosomes or all 23 pairs to identify any abnormalities.
Yes, by transferring only healthy embryos, PGT significantly reduces the risk of miscarriage and increases the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.
PGT involves creating embryos via IVF, analyzing a small sample from each embryo for genetic testing, and transferring only the healthiest embryos into the uterus.
The cost of PGT varies based on the number of embryos tested, the method used (e.g., NGS or aCGH), and additional services like genetic counseling. At Nicosia Fertility, we provide transparent pricing and can discuss flexible payment options to help make your journey more manageable.
