PreimplantationPreimplantation genetic testing is performed on embryos before being transferred to the uterus. PGT-A is a genetic test carried out in cases where there is a risk of chromosomal abnormalities or specific inherited diseases. This typically occurs when one partner has a family history of these risks, or an abnormal preimplantation genetic screening result or both partners have previously had preimplantation genetic testing. Part of the embryo is removed then tested in a laboratory, and the results are provided within 1 to 3 days. Here is all you need to know about the process before visiting a specialist in preimplantation genetic testing in Newport Beach.
Who is a Candidate?
PGT-A is a genetic test available for all patients desiring to conceive using their eggs or embryos. Your doctor will recommend this test if you have a family history of a specific chromosome abnormality, such as Down Syndrome, Turner Syndrome, Klinefelter Syndrome, Myotonic dystrophy, fragile X syndrome, or an inherited disease Cystic Fibrosis or Sickle Cell Anemia.
Preimplantation genetic testing is also available for patients who have had previous unsuccessful preimplantation genetic tests, either with their partner whose embryos were tested at the same time or previously transferred embryos.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before genetic testing can begin, your doctor may recommend a hormonal stimulation of the ovaries to increase your chances of having more eggs. Once your eggs have reached the appropriate maturity level, they are removed from your body and fertilized with sperm in a petri dish.
If you do not have a partner, a donor’s sperm is used. After fertilization, your doctor will be able to see the embryos develop into multicellular structures. At this point, a small portion of one or two cells is removed from each embryo using either a needle or microsurgical tools. There is no visible damage to the embryo as the cell(s) are removed, and no anesthesia is required for the procedure.
The lab will perform the genetic testing and get back to your doctor within 1-3 days with the results.
What Do the Results Show?
The results of PGT-A are usually available within 1 to 3 days. If the test shows one or more embryos have normal chromosomes, your doctor will recommend transferring these back to your uterus. If all embryos tested have either missing or extra genetic material, no further action is recommended, and you may consider another cycle for conceiving.
What Are the Risks?
PGT-A is considered a very low-risk procedure. Cellular material is removed from the embryo, but the cells are not fully developed and do not become part of the embryo. There will be no changes in how your baby develops after fertilization.
During the PGT-A process, there is always a chance that the embryo will not survive the biopsy procedure. However, most embryos are still healthy after the test is completed.
In summary, preimplantation genetic testing is a set of genetic tests done on embryos before a doctor transfers them to the uterus. Anyone looking to conceive using their egg or embryo can take advantage of the procedure. It takes about 1 to 3 days to get the results. After receiving the results, the doctor will transfer all embryos with normal chromosomes into the uterus while discarding those with abnormal chromosomes; It is generally a low-risk procedure.
