PREIMPLANTATION GENETIC DIAGNOSIS

What is Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)?

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is a procedure to test embryos for genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities before implantation.

Who should consider PGD?

PGD is usually performed when either of the couple carry the risk of certain heritable diseases or disorders and wants to prevent it from being passed on to the child. It may also be opted for by couples older in age or had recurrent miscarriages, in order to improve pregnancy rates by identifying the ‘normal’ embryo(s) for the transfer.                

How is PGD performed?

Blood samples are taken from affected couples to develop a testing system specific to the couple. The couple has to undergo IVF treatment, irrespective of their fertility status. Embryos will be created by fertilising the eggs of the wife with the sperm of the husband. When the embryos reach a stage of many cells, 2 cells will be extracted from each embryo and tested for specific genetic abnormality. Normal embryos will be transferred to the uterus of the wife.