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| Treatments - Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis/Screening (PGD/PGS) |
Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) and Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) are methods of testing embryos for genetic conditions in order to select the healthiest embryos for implantation. In PGD/PGS, cells from the embryo are removed (embryo biopsy) and sent for genetic testing. This does not harm the embryo.
PGD/PGS can reduce the miscarriage rate and minimize the need for elective termination of pregnancies because of chromosomal abnormalities (trisomies). PGD/PGSD can also eliminate the transfer of embryos affected by single gene defects like cystic fibrosis. These abnormalities are impossible to detect by other means.
When to consider PGD/PGS
PGD/PGS is indicated if you or your partner carry, or are affected, with a serious genetic disease that can be passed on to your offspring. The goal of PGD/PGS is to select an embryo that is not affected by the disease.
PGS attempts to screen embryos for abnormalities in the chromosome number or structure (called aneuploidy) in order to prevent transfer of embryos with genetic abnormalities, like Down's syndrome. In addition, women with a history of miscarriages or repeated IVF failures may consider PGS to select the healthiest embryos and hopefully prevent additional miscarriage or IVF failure.
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