Preimplantaion Genetic Screening
In Preimplantation Genetic Screening
What is Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS)?
PGS (Preimplantation Genetic Screening) is a genetic study of embryos produced during your IVF cycle. Its main goal is to help you achieve a successful pregnancy and have a healthy baby.
What does PGS testing entail?
PGS testing screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities such as Down Syndrome, Patau Syndrome, Edward Syndrome, XY Chromosome issues, and Di-George Syndrome. This process takes place before transferring the embryo into your uterus. If you and your doctor agree that you may benefit from this test, it can easily be added to your routine IVF treatment.
How PGS Testing Works
The cycle begins with ovarian stimulation and monitoring. Your doctor then retrieves your eggs and fertilises them in the IVF lab. After fertilisation, usually on day five or six, the embryologist takes a biopsy from the embryo. This means they extract and analyse a few cells. Each cell should have 23 pairs of chromosomes, making a total of 46. PGS testing checks all 23 pairs, including the X and Y chromosomes that determine the embryo’s sex. It also looks for extra or missing copies of chromosomes.
The clinic sends a small sample of each embryo to a genetic testing lab while safely storing the embryos on-site. Once the testing is complete, your doctor receives the results and uses them to identify which embryos should be transferred to your uterus.
Who Should Consider It?
Overall, PGS helps determine whether embryos have the correct number of chromosomes. Many patients can benefit from it, as it increases pregnancy rates per transfer and lowers the risk of miscarriage. It is particularly recommended for the following:
If you’re over the age of 35 years: As women age, the chance of chromosomal abnormalities in embryos rises. PGS testing helps by detecting these abnormalities before embryo transfer.
If you’ve experienced more than two miscarriages: Around half of all miscarriages result from chromosomal abnormalities. PGS testing lowers miscarriage rates by identifying embryos without these abnormalities before transfer.
If you’ve had multiple unsuccessful IVF rounds: PGS testing boosts the likelihood of a successful transfer by identifying embryos that are chromosomally normal. This can also reduce the need for repeated IVF cycles.