Genetics are estimated to account for up to 10% of infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss in couples. The likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities increases with a woman's age. Many embryos with chromosomal abnormalities fail to implant or result in early miscarriages. Genetic testing can offer valuable insights and improve the chances of successful pregnancy for couples seeking to start a family. Our range of genetic testing services can significantly enhance fertility treatment success.
PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy)
PGT-A is a genetic test performed on embryos to detect chromosomal abnormalities, such as aneuploidy. This test is conducted before embryos are transferred into the uterus. By screening all embryos created during an IVF cycle, those without chromosomal abnormalities can be selected for transfer, leading to higher pregnancy rates and a reduction in miscarriage rates.
PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders)
PGT-M is used to test embryos for specific genetic conditions, such as Thalassemia, hemophilia, and certain types of muscular dystrophy. This test is especially beneficial for couples with a family history of these disorders or those who have had a child affected by them. Only embryos that are unaffected or carriers of the disorder are selected for transfer, ensuring the birth of a child free from genetic conditions. PGT-M can also be combined with PGT-A for improved outcomes.
PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements)
PGT-SR is designed for individuals with chromosomal rearrangements, where the structure of the chromosomes is abnormal. These individuals are at a higher risk of producing embryos with unbalanced genetic material, leading to implantation failure and recurrent miscarriages. PGT-SR helps identify embryos with normal chromosomal structures for successful transfer, reducing the risk of miscarriage.
ERA (Endometrial Receptivity Array)
ERA is a personalized genetic test that assesses the endometrial receptivity, determining the optimal time for embryo transfer during the implantation window. This test helps identify the best timing for transferring an embryo into the uterus, enhancing the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Who Can Benefit from Genetic Testing?
Genetic testing services are ideal for:
- Patients who have experienced multiple implantation failures with good-quality embryos (e.g., at least three failed transfers for women under 37 years or two failed transfers for women over 37 years)
- Patients with a normal uterus and endometrial thickness (≤6mm) where no visible issues are found but who still experience implantation failure
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should I Consider IVF?
IVF was initially developed for women with blocked or absent fallopian tubes and remains the preferred treatment in these cases. It is also used for other fertility issues, including endometriosis, male infertility, and unexplained infertility, where no clear medical cause can be identified. Our specialists will assess your medical history and guide you towards the most suitable diagnostic tests and treatment options for your situation.
What Contributes to Male Infertility?
Around one-third of infertility cases are related to male factors, which can also contribute to a higher risk of miscarriage. The most common causes of male infertility include:
- Abnormal sperm count or low sperm motility
- Chronic health conditions like cancer
- Environmental factors such as exposure to harmful chemicals or radiation
- Lifestyle factors like obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption
- Age
What Contributes to Female Infertility?
Infertility affects both men and women equally, with one-third of infertility cases linked to female factors. Globally, 50-80 million people experience infertility. Common causes of female infertility include.
- Age
- Endometriosis
- Hormonal imbalances leading to ovulation issues
- Blocked fallopian tubes
- Uterine fibroids
- Lifestyle factors such as obesity, smoking, alcohol, and poor diet
- Unexplained infertility
How Does Age Impact a Woman's Fertility?
Women are born with about 2 million eggs in their ovaries. By the time a girl reaches puberty, approximately 11,000 eggs are lost each month. As a result, by the teenage years, a woman has around 300,000 to 400,000 eggs left. From then on, about 1,000 eggs are depleted monthly. This natural decline in egg quantity is unrelated to birth control, pregnancy, hormone levels, health, lifestyle, or supplements. Eventually, a woman reaches menopause when no viable eggs remain.
Does PCOS Affect a Woman's Fertility?
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition where women produce higher levels of male hormones, disrupting normal ovulation and causing irregular menstrual cycles. This hormonal imbalance makes it more difficult for women with PCOS to conceive, making it one of the leading causes of female infertility.
