PGD is a type of genetic testing done during in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. This test identifies specific genetic conditions, allowing the fertility specialist to choose the healthiest embryos, increasing the chance of a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby.
It is a means of avoiding transmission of a specific genetic disorder without a couple having the possibility of the baby being affected and therefore having to face the decision of terminating the pregnancy.
PGD can decrease the risk of miscarriage and this technology can help you achieve a healthy pregnancy. Individuals who suspect or know they carry genes for serious medical conditions may opt to screen for healthy embryos ahead of time. PGD can test for over 400 different disorders such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, Huntington’s disease, or other hereditary conditions.
Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) is a more enhanced process than Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) since it scans for individual genes.
Following the first steps of an IVF procedure (retrieving the eggs and fertilizing the eggs in a lab to create embryos), the lab team will remove 5 to 7 cells from an embryo that is 5 days old. The embryos can be frozen for future transfer as soon as the biopsy is done. These cells are then sent to a genetics lab for evaluation.
The PGD test will take 1 – 2 weeks to generate results. It is helpful to speak to a genetic counselor to explore the limits of this test, and the interpretation of the possible results.
