Genetic Testing

Preimplantation Genetic Testing are state-of-the-art procedures used in combination with in vitro fertilization to help select embryos that are free of chromosomal abnormalities and specific genetic disorders for transfer into the uterus. Indications include advanced maternal age, recurrent miscarriage, and inherited genetic disorders.

PGT-A – (aneuploidy)
In a normal embryo, there are 23 pairs of chromosomes, either 46XX or 46XY. As women age, there is an increased risk of having chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo. One of the most common abnormalities is Down’s syndrome, a condition in which there are 47 chromosomes, which is caused by an extra chromosome 21. Today’s technology allows us to evaluate an embryo and confirm that there is a normal number of chromosomes before placing it back into the uterus. This is called Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A). With PGT-A, IVF success rates increase, and miscarriage rates significantly decrease because of the transferring of genetically normal embryos.

PGT-M – (monogenic)
Patients who are at a high risk of having offspring with genetic abnormalities may choose to undergo PGT-M. There are currently hundreds of diseases that can be tested for in couples who are interested in conceiving. These typically screen for what’s called ‘recessive gene mutations’. If a couple happens to be a known carrier of certain gene mutations, such as cystic fibrosis or muscular dystrophy, embryo screening can be done to ensure that the disease is not passed on to offspring. This is only needed for recessive gene mutations if both partners carry a mutation for the same disease because if only one partner carries a gene mutation, it poses no risk to their offspring. PGT-M is performed as part of an in vitro fertilization cycle. An embryo biopsy is performed to remove a few cells from each embryo that has grown in culture for 5 days. It typically takes about two weeks to get the results. As such, embryos will be transferred in a frozen embryo transfer cycle the following month or later.

PGT-SR – (structural rearrangements)
PGT-SR is used to detect structural chromosomal abnormalities such as translocations, and preimplantation genetic testing-structural rearrangements.

Is there an additional charge for Genetic Testing?
Although the biopsy is performed at Idaho Fertility Center, the actual testing is performed at a special laboratory off site. The outside laboratory does charge an additional fee for their services, which will vary depending on the type of testing being performed.

To learn more about our preimplantation genetic testing in Idaho Falls, Idaho, we encourage you to contact us at 208-529-2019 to request a consultation with one of our board-certified fertility specialists.