NCCRM offers pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and pre-implantation genetic screening (PGS) for the purpose of family balancing or sex selection by testing for the chromosome content of an embryo. Once embryos are created in vitro, they are sometimes screened to choose the healthiest ones to implant into the mother’s womb. PGD is the most accurate known method for successfully determining sex prior to conception.
During PGD, embryos are examined under a microscope and a few cells are gently removed. Those cells are analyzed to ensure a normal genetic makeup of all pairs of chromosomes 1 through 23. The X and Y chromosomes are also checked for abnormalities. PGD can test for more than 100 different genetic conditions.
If screening indicates that there are healthy embryos of both genders, some may ask to choose the gender to implant. The gender of an embryo is determined by the chromosomes carried by the sperm. Sometimes gender selection is used by couples to prevent serious genetic diseases and chromosomal disorders that are gender-specific. On other occasions, prospective parents turn to sex selection to “balance” their family.
Possible Candidates for PGD
Individuals who are possible candidates for PGD include:
- Women age 35 and over
- Women experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss
- Women with more than one failed fertility treatment
- Carriers of sex-linked genetic disorders
- Carriers of single-gene disorders
- Those with chromosomal disorders
While PGD helps to reduce the chances of conceiving a child with a genetic disorder, it can not completely eliminate the risk. Pursuing IVF with genetic testing is a deeply personal decision, so discuss it with your family and with your physician to find what path is best for you.
NCCRM
The North Carolina Center for Reproductive Medicine (NCCRM) is the premiere center for reproductive health in North Carolina and the East Coast. It was established in 1992 to provide advanced reproductive techniques to couples who dream of having a child of their own. Our team specializes in fertility testing, diagnosis, and treatment of infertility conditions. To learn more or schedule a consultation, contact us.
