Modern reproductive medicine has made incredible advances, especially in the area of genetic screening. One of the most powerful tools now available to couples undergoing IVF is genetic test in Lahore of embryos.
What Is Genetic Testing in IVF?
Genetic testing of embryos is performed during an IVF cycle before the embryo is implanted into the uterus. It involves removing a few cells from a developing embryo (usually on day 5 or 6 of development) and examining them for genetic abnormalities.
The two most common forms of testing include:
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Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD): This detects specific inherited genetic diseases.
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Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS), now called PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy): This checks for chromosomal abnormalities such as missing or extra chromosomes.
Together, these methods help fertility specialists choose the healthiest embryo for transfer — increasing the chances of pregnancy and reducing the risk of passing on genetic diseases.
How PGD Identifies Inherited Diseases
PGD is designed specifically to identify monogenic (single-gene) disorders. These are conditions passed down through families due to mutations in a single gene. If both parents are carriers, their embryos may be at risk for inherited diseases — even if the parents show no symptoms themselves.
Through PGD, doctors can:
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Analyze embryos for specific mutations.
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Identify embryos that are affected, carriers, or unaffected.
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Transfer only those embryos that are free of the inherited disease.
Common Inherited Diseases Identified Through Genetic Testing
Here are some of the most common genetic conditions that can be identified through PGD:
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Cystic Fibrosis
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Tay-Sachs Disease
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Thalassemia
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Sickle Cell Anemia
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Huntington’s Disease
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Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
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Spinal Muscular Atrophy
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Hemophilia
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BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations (linked to breast and ovarian cancer)
These conditions can significantly impact a child’s health and lifespan. Identifying them in the embryo stage allows families to make informed reproductive decisions.
Who Should Consider Genetic Testing?
Genetic testing isn’t necessary for every couple undergoing IVF. However, it is strongly recommended for:
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Couples with a family history of genetic disorders
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Carriers of known genetic mutations
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Women over 35 (increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities)
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Couples who’ve had recurrent miscarriages
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Patients with multiple failed IVF cycles
A consultation with a genetic counselor is often the first step to determine whether testing is appropriate.
Is Genetic Testing Safe for Embryos?
Yes, when performed by skilled embryologists in certified labs, embryo biopsy and testing are generally considered safe and minimally invasive. The cells taken for analysis are from the outer layer of the embryo (trophectoderm), which eventually forms the placenta — not the fetus itself.
Most embryos that undergo testing continue to develop normally and can lead to successful pregnancies.
Ethical and Emotional Considerations
While genetic testing is a powerful tool, it also comes with ethical and emotional questions. Some families may feel conflicted about selecting embryos based on genetic traits. Others may worry about the emotional weight of learning that multiple embryos are affected.
It’s important to receive counseling and emotional support throughout the process. IVF centers offering PGD/PGT often provide counseling sessions to help patients navigate their choices with clarity and compassion.
Benefits of Genetic Testing During IVF
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Reduced risk of inherited disease transmission
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Improved chances of a healthy pregnancy
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Fewer miscarriages
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Lower risk of failed implantation
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Greater peace of mind for families with genetic risks
By identifying healthy embryos before implantation, genetic testing improves both the success rate and the long-term health outcomes for IVF babies.
Final Thoughts
Yes, genetic testing can identify inherited diseases in embryos and it’s one of the most meaningful breakthroughs in fertility care. For families facing the risk of passing on serious conditions, this technology offers hope, precision, and reassurance.
If you or your partner have a family history of genetic illness, speak with a fertility specialist about genetic screening options during your IVF journey. Making informed decisions now can help you protect your future child’s health and well-being.
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