PGT

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a procedure that helps to identify genetic abnormalities in embryos generated through IVF before implantation. PGT allows for the birth of healthy babies while negatively selecting affected embryos at the preimplantation stage. After testing, only normal embryos are transferred back to the uterus for implantation.

PGT provides an alternative to current post-conception prenatal diagnostic procedures. With PGT, parents can make an informed decision in consultation with their physician and genetic counselors on the option of continuing the pregnancy and birth of the baby or terminating the fetus in case of identification of a genetic aberration in the offspring. PGT helps to eliminate the dilemma of medical treatment of pregnancy that may follow prenatal diagnosis of genetic disorders.

PGT is performed for a wide variety of disorders. The most common group for which PGT is done includes testing in couples with a high risk of transmitting inherited monogenic disorders, including autosomal recessive disorders (like cystic fibrosis, beta-thalassemia, and sickle cell anemia), autosomal dominant disorders (like myotonic dystrophy and Huntington’s disease), X-linked disorders (like fragile X syndrome, hemophilia A, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy), or a structural chromosomal aberration (like balanced reciprocal translocation, inversion, etc.).

Sex selection of embryos is also done using PGT, which involves taking a few cells from the embryo as it grows in incubators in the IVF lab and identifying the sex via genetic analysis. However, according to the PNDT Act (88) in 1994, it is prohibited to use prenatal diagnosis techniques for sex determination of embryos in India. This is a punishable act and is strictly prohibited by the Government of India.

Aashakiran IVF is a state-of-the-art fertility clinic that provides a range of services for couples seeking to conceive through assisted reproductive technologies. The clinic offers preimplantation genetic testing as one of its services to help couples identify any genetic abnormalities in their embryos prior to implantation. Aashakiran IVF also has a team of experienced genetic counselors who provide guidance and support to couples throughout the PGT process.