Genetic Testing

Preimplantation Genetic Testing are state-of-the-art procedures used in conjunction with In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to help select embryos that are free of chromosomal abnormalities and specific genetic disorders for transfer into the uterus. Indications include recurrent miscarriage, advanced maternal age, and inherited genetic disorders. Embryos are biopsied on day 5 and frozen for subsequent frozen embryo transfers, The biopsied cells are sent to a special laboratory for evaluation. It can take up to two weeks to receive results.

PGT-A – Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy
The main purpose of preimplantation genetic testing-aneuploidy (known as PGT-A) is to screen embryos for whole chromosome abnormalities. The most common is Down’s syndrome, a condition having 47 chromosomes. This testing allows us to evaluate embryos to confirm there are the correct number of chromosomes prior to an embryo transfer. This technology has helped to increase success rates and lower miscarriage rates.

PGT-SR – Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis
The goal of PGT-SR is to detect structural chromosomal abnormalities such as translocations.

PGT-M – Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis
For patients who are at high risk of having offspring with genetic abnormalities, they may elect to undergo PGT-M. There are currently hundreds of diseases that can be tested for in couples who are interested in conceiving; couples will typically screen for what’s called ‘recessive gene mutations’. If a couple happens to be a known carrier of certain gene mutations, such as cystic fibrosis or muscular dystrophy, embryo screening can be done to ensure that the disease is not passed on to offspring. This is only done for recessive gene mutations if both partners carry a mutation for the same disease because if only one partner carries a gene mutation, it poses no risk to their offspring.

Is there an additional charge for Genetic Testing?
The embryo biopsy is performed at Utah Fertility Center and does incur a charge for the procedure.   The testing of the embryos is performed at an outside special laboratory.  These fees are paid to the outside laboratory and may vary in cost based on the type of testing being performed.

To learn more about our preimplantation genetic testing in Murray, Pleasant Grove, Ogden, Park City and St. George, Utah,  please do not hesitate to contact us at 801-785-5100 to request a consultation with one of our skilled infertility specialists.