Preimplantation genetic testing is a powerful tool that can help couples who are struggling with infertility to increase their chances of having a healthy baby. In Thailand, many fertility clinics offer this cutting-edge technology to their patients. But what exactly is preimplantation genetic testing, and how does it work? In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about this important procedure.
Preimplantation genetic testing, also known as PGT, is a procedure that involves screening embryos for genetic abnormalities before they are implanted in the uterus. This can help identify embryos that are at risk for certain genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities, allowing doctors to select the healthiest embryos for implantation. This can significantly increase the chances of a successful pregnancy and reduce the risk of miscarriage. Many fertility clinics in Thailand offer preimplantation genetic testing as part of their assisted reproductive technology services.
There are two main types of preimplantation genetic testing: PGT-A (aneuploidy screening) and PGT-M (monogenic/single gene disorder screening). PGT-A involves screening embryos for chromosomal abnormalities such as aneuploidy, which can lead to conditions like Down syndrome. PGT-M, on the other hand, is used to screen for specific inherited genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anaemia. By identifying embryos with these genetic abnormalities, doctors can help couples avoid passing on these conditions to their children.
The process of preimplantation genetic testing begins with in vitro fertilization (IVF), where eggs are retrieved from the woman’s ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryos are then biopsied, usually on day five or six after fertilization. The biopsy samples are sent to a genetics lab for analysis, where they are screened for the specific genetic markers or chromosomal abnormalities being tested for. Once the results are available, doctors can select the healthiest embryos for transfer into the woman’s uterus.
In conclusion, preimplantation genetic testing is a valuable tool that can help couples undergoing fertility treatments increase their chances of having a healthy baby. By screening embryos for genetic abnormalities before implantation, doctors can identify and select the healthiest embryos for transfer, reducing the risk of passing on inherited conditions to future generations. If you are considering fertility treatments in Thailand, be sure to ask your fertility clinic (known as คลินิกมีบุตรยาก in Thai) about preimplantation
