Health Topics
Preimplementation Genetic Screening and Testing
Genetic screening may help identify couples that have an increased risk of age-related or familial genetic disorders and birth defects. (Though no single test can predict all the risks of defect in a child).
Screening for genetic diseases that may affect offspring depends upon the racial or ethnic background of the couple, their family and medical history, and associated conditions. If couples have a family history of a disorder, or belong to an at-risk racial or ethnic group, they may opt for genetic testing.
Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD)—or embryo screening—refers to a procedure that evaluates embryos before implantation. PGD involves screening the chromosomes of a single cell, obtained from an early developing embryo, for gene defects and chromosomal abnormalities before the embryo is implanted during an IVF procedure.
Preimplantation screening uses PGD techniques to identify embryos at risk and allows physicians to identify various genetic diseases in the embryo before the pregnancy is established. It is of special value for those who are at risk of having children with serious genetic problems.
Some ethnic groups are at a higher risk of carrying certain genetic diseases and may be screened for carrier status during the infertility treatment process. To learn more about those at high-risk, please visit the American Society of Reproductive Medicine.
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