Genetic Testing of Embryos Pros vs Cons

What is Genetic Testing of Embryos?

Genetic testing of embryos is when testing is done on the cells to determine the embryo’s viability for transfer through IVF. There are two terms that are used for genetic testing, preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and preimplantation genetic screening (PGS). Although they sound similar there is a major difference between the two. PGD or preimplantation genetic diagnosis is when a cell from an IVF embryo is removed to test it. The test will determine if it has a specific genetic condition before the embryo is transferred into the uterus. PGS or preimplantation genetic screening is when a cell from an IVF embryo is removed to test it. The test looks for overall chromosomal normalcy not a specific disease. There are specific groups of patients that might benefit from PGD or PGS, however the test are not limited to these groups. The ideal patients are:

• Women who are going through IVF and are the advanced maternal age (38 or older).
• Any woman who has experienced IVF failure 3 or more times.
• Patients who desire to screen for inherited genetic diseases because they run in their family.
• If the patients are carriers of chromosomal translocations.
• Women who have had multiple miscarriages.

Pros of Genetic Testing of Embryos

• Higher rates of single embryo transfers.
• It allows doctors to pick a viable embryo so that the transfer has a higher chance for success.
• Lower risk of a miscarriage.
• A very high success rate of identifying genetic diseases and chromosomal issues.

Cons of Genetic Testing of Embryos

• Embryos might be traumatized by the biopsy procedure.
• It’s an additional cost to the patient.
• Even if insurance covers IVF it will not cover the genetic testing of embryos.
• The testing is not 100% accurate.
• It can be a moral conflict for some patients, especially if there is an issue that will result in the disposal of the embryo.

Ultimately the decision to move forward with genetic testing of embryos will be the couples. It is a great option to help raise the rate of success for those struggling with infertility.

Ways to Donate or Get Involved with Starfish Infertility Foundation:

• Through the website – www.starfishinfertilityfoundation.org: (https://starfishinfertilityfoundation.org/star_fish_homepage/get-involved/)
• Gift through Paypal to: info@starfishinfertilityfoundation.org
• Kroger Rewards If you shop at Kroger and have a Kroger Plus Card, please visit https://www.kroger.com/communityrewards Simply sign in, enroll now, enter organization number {PT873 for SIF},  enroll – DONE in less than 2 minutes!!  Kroger will then donate a portion to SIF!  How easy is THAT???
•  Amazon Smile Go through www.smile.amazon.com to place your Amazon Orders and Choose STARFISH INFERTILITY FOUNDATION! A Portion of your Purchase will Automatically be Donated!

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