PGS

What is Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS)?

Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) is an advanced genetic test used in In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to screen embryos for chromosomal abnormalities before they are implanted in the uterus. The goal of PGS is to improve the chances of a successful pregnancy by selecting embryos that have the correct number of chromosomes, thereby reducing the risk of miscarriage, implantation failure, and genetic disorders.

At Sparsh IVF, we offer PGS as part of our comprehensive IVF treatments, utilizing state-of-the-art technology and expert embryologists to screen embryos for chromosomal health. Our goal is to help you achieve the highest chances of a successful and healthy pregnancy.

In this guide, we will explain the benefits of PGS, the screening process, and how it can enhance your IVF journey.

Why is Preimplantation Genetic Screening Important?

1. Increases Implantation Success: One of the main reasons for implantation failure in IVF is chromosomal abnormalities in embryos. PGS helps to identify and select the healthiest embryos for transfer, increasing the likelihood that the embryo will successfully implant in the uterine lining.

2. Reduces Risk of Miscarriage: Chromosomal abnormalities, such as aneuploidy (an abnormal number of chromosomes), are a leading cause of miscarriage. By screening embryos for chromosomal health, PGS significantly reduces the risk of miscarriage, especially in women over 35 or those who have had multiple miscarriages.

3. Improves IVF Success Rates: PGS increases the chances of a successful IVF cycle by selecting embryos that are more likely to lead to a healthy pregnancy. Couples who have experienced failed IVF cycles may benefit from PGS, as it helps identify embryos with the best potential for success.

4. Reduces the Risk of Genetic Disorders: PGS helps to ensure that embryos are free from common chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome, Edward’s syndrome, or Patau syndrome. By screening embryos before implantation, the risk of passing on these conditions is reduced, leading to healthier pregnancies and babies.

5. Better Outcomes for Older Women: Women over the age of 35 are at a higher risk for chromosomal abnormalities in their eggs. PGS can help reduce the risk of chromosomal issues in embryos, increasing the chances of a healthy pregnancy for older women undergoing IVF.

How Does Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) Work?

PGS involves several key steps during the IVF process:

1. Egg Retrieval: After stimulating the ovaries and preparing the eggs for retrieval, eggs are collected from the ovaries in an outpatient procedure.

2. Fertilization: The retrieved eggs are fertilized with sperm in the lab through In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). The resulting embryos are cultured and monitored for several days.

3. Embryo Biopsy: Once the embryos reach the blastocyst stage (usually around 5-7 days of development), a small number of cells are carefully biopsied from the embryo without harming it. These cells are sent for genetic testing.

4. Genetic Testing: The biopsied cells undergo genetic analysis to screen for chromosomal abnormalities such as aneuploidy (extra or missing chromosomes). The results of the test will indicate whether the embryo is chromosomally normal or abnormal.

5. Embryo Selection: The embryos that are chromosomally normal (euploid) are selected for transfer into the uterus. Any abnormal embryos (aneuploid) will be discarded or frozen for future use, depending on the patient's choice.

6. Embryo Transfer: The selected healthy embryo(s) are then transferred into the uterus, where they are more likely to implant and develop into a healthy pregnancy.

7. Pregnancy Test: After the embryo transfer, a pregnancy test is performed to confirm whether implantation has occurred and the pregnancy is progressing normally.

Benefits of Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS)

1. Higher IVF Success Rates: By selecting genetically healthy embryos, PGS enhances the likelihood of successful embryo implantation and pregnancy, leading to higher IVF success rates.

2. Reduces the Risk of Miscarriage: PGS minimizes the risk of miscarriage caused by chromosomal abnormalities, especially in women of advanced maternal age or those who have had previous miscarriages.

3. Improves Pregnancy Outcomes: Screening for chromosomal abnormalities helps to ensure that the transferred embryos are more likely to result in a healthy pregnancy and the birth of a healthy baby.

4. Supports Older Women with Fertility Challenges: For women over the age of 35, PGS provides an opportunity to reduce the risks associated with age-related chromosomal issues, improving the chances of a successful IVF cycle and reducing the chances of genetic disorders.

5. Helps with Family Planning: PGS can also be useful for couples who are carriers of certain genetic diseases, as it helps them make informed decisions about which embryos to implant, reducing the risk of passing on those diseases to their children.

6. Cost-Effective Long-Term: While PGS may add an initial cost to the IVF process, it can save money in the long run by reducing the need for multiple IVF cycles and preventing the emotional and financial costs of miscarriages or failed IVF cycles.

Who Should Consider Preimplantation Genetic Screening?

PGS is particularly beneficial for:

• Women over 35 who are at higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities in embryos.
• Couples who have experienced recurrent miscarriages or failed IVF cycles.
• Couples with a history of chromosomal disorders or genetic diseases in the family.
• Couples undergoing IVF who want to ensure the healthiest embryo is selected for transfer.
• Individuals undergoing egg or sperm donation, where genetic screening can help ensure the health of the embryo.

Here’s why you should choose PGS at Sparsh IVF:

1. Advanced Technology: We use the latest genetic screening technologies to provide accurate results and help you select the healthiest embryos for transfer.

2. Expert Care: Our fertility specialists are experienced in PGS and will guide you through the process, ensuring you fully understand the benefits and results of genetic screening.

3. Personalized Approach: We take the time to understand your unique fertility needs and tailor our IVF treatments to optimize your chances of a healthy pregnancy.

4. State-of-the-Art Lab: Our IVF laboratory is equipped with the latest genetic testing equipment to provide reliable and precise results.

5. Proven Success Rates: By using PGS, we have helped many couples achieve successful pregnancies and healthy babies.

Contact Us for Preimplantation Genetic Screening

If you are considering Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) as part of your IVF treatment, Sparsh IVF is here to support you. Our team of fertility specialists will guide you through the screening process, helping you choose the best embryos for a healthy and successful pregnancy.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how PGS can improve your IVF success and help you achieve your dream of parenthood.

Begin your fertility journey with confidence at Sparsh IVF, where advanced technology and expert care come together to help you create a healthy family.