Genetic Testing
Pre-Implantation Genetic Testing
Pre-implantation Genetic Testing (PGT) screens for genetic conditions that could affect the health of the embryo. This test is performed prior to transferring the embryo to the womb and is done in conjunction with in-vitro fertilisation (IVF). PGT enables our embryologist to identify a healthy embryo to be implanted in the mother’s womb thus reducing the risk of miscarriage and multiple pregnancy.
This is an additional process that can determine the health of the embryo and this also helps to increase your chances of conceiving and it can only be done via IVF.
Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)
Available at Sunway Fertility Centre, next generation sequencing (NGS) is the latest, most advanced PGT technology which allows for comprehensive chromosome testing of embryos.
NGS involves a more detailed screening for defects on the chromosome level. The results gathered from a NGS test are more comprehensive compared to other genetic screening tests. In addition to a faster results turnaround time, NGS results have reduced errors compared to its predecessors, which is very crucial for increased pregnancy success rates.
Aneuploidy is the presence of an abnormal number of chromosomes in a cell such as 45 or 47 chromosomes. A healthy human being has 46 chromosomes (also known as a euploid cell) and the presence of the euploid cell increases the chances of an implantation during IVF.
PGT-A is a comprehensive chromosome screening of an embryo that determines if the embryo has a normal chromosome count. This modern technology is an additional process from the traditional IVF process. Traditionally, during an IVF, the embryo is examined based solely on its appearance. PGT-A however, screens the embryo in detail to ensure that the embryo does not only appear healthy but is chromosomally normal too.
What are the advantages of PGT-A?
The advantages of this procedure includes:
- Reduces the risk of a miscarriage
- Increases pregnancy rates, even for high-risk patients
- Minimises the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in your child
- Able to identify the chromosomally healthy embryos to be frozen for future use
Who is PGT-A for?
PGT-A is appropriate for any couple undergoing IVF. This procedure should be considered especially if the woman is above the age of 36 as the age is a risk factor for chromosomal abnormality or have experienced repeated miscarriages.
PGT-M is a genetic test of the embryo for a specific gene defect. This screening is done prior to an embryo transfer. PGT-M is carried out to reduce the risk of your child inheriting a genetic disease or medical condition.
Though the process of PGT-M, our laboratory team will be able to examine to embryo and identify the presence of absence a specific gene mutation.
What are the advantages of PGT-M?
The sole advantage of PGT-M is that it will provide information about the possible presence of a hereditary gene mutation in the embryo. This helps to prevent the transfer of an ‘abnormal’ embryo during IVF.
Who is PGT-M for?
Couples who are at risk of passing a specific gene disorder to your future child should consider PGT-M. Some of the medical conditions that can be inherited includes Thalassemia, Cystic Fibrosis, Sickle Cell Disease and Hemophilia A and B.
Who is PGT suitable for?
This test is recommended for:
- Couples who have undergone multiple unexplained miscarriages
- Couples who want to increase the success rate of their IVF treatment
- Couples with a family history of chromosomal conditions/abnormalities
- Couples with serious genetic conditions who want to avoid it from being passed on to the next generation