Reproductive Genetics

It is estimated that genetics contribute up to 10% of infertility issues or recurrent pregnancy losses in couples. The risk of finding chromosomal abnormalities grows as the age of the woman increases. Most embryos with an incorrect number of chromosomes fail to implant or miscarry during the first trimester of pregnancy. Genetic testing protocols have the potential to help many of those couples in their quest to have a family. Our comprehensive list of genetic testing services can greatly increase your chances of getting pregnant.

PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing - Aneuploidy)

PGT-A is genetic testing performed on embryos to identify numerical chromosomal abnormalities or aneuploidy. This test is performed on embryos prior to transfer into the uterus. By analysing all embryos generated in an IVF treatment cycle, those free of chromosomal aneuploidy can be identified for selective transfer. As a result, the pregnancy rates per transfer are increased and the miscarriage rates decreased.

PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing – Monogenic)

PGT-M involves testing of embryos for specific monogenic disorders like Thalassemia, haemophilia and certain types of muscular dystrophy. It helps couples who have a family history or those who have had a child affected with these disorders to have an unaffected child. All embryos formed as a part of an Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) are tested for this specific monogenic disorder. Only unaffected or career embryos are transferred to have a disease free child. This can also be combined with PGT-A to further improve success rates.

PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing - Structural Rearrangement)

PGT-SR tests people with chromosome rearrangements (structures that hold our genetic material is not of normal size or arrangement). These people are at risk of producing embryos with unbalanced chromosomal structure. Such embryos are not viable and can result in multiple miscarriages. PGT-SR tests embryos for such specific rearrangements and can help in selection of normal embryos for transfer.

ERA (Endometrial Receptivity Array)

ERA is a personalised genetic test to diagnose the state of endometrial receptivity in the window of implantation. ERA determines the exact time period during which an embryo needs to be transferred into the woman’s uterus to achieve a successful pregnancy.

Who is this for?

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I opt for IVF?

IVF was originally developed for women with blocked tubes or missing fallopian tubes and it is still the procedure of choice for these situations. It is also used when other conditions are present, including endometriosis, male factor infertility and unexplained infertility in which no medical cause for infertility can be found. Our experts will review your history and help to guide you to the treatment and diagnostic procedures that are most appropriate for you.

What are the causes of male infertility?

1/3rd of the infertility issues are contributed by the male partner. Male factors also influence increased rate of miscarriages. Most common causes of male infertility are as follows.

  • Abnormal sperm count or low sperm motility
  • Chronic ailments such as cancer
  • Environmental factors: Exposure to radioactive chemicals
  • Lifestyle factors: Being overweight, smoking, drinking alcohol
  • Age

What causes of female infertility?

Infertility is gender neutral. It affects the male and the female population. 1/3rd of the infertility issues are contributed by the female partner. In the world 50-80 million suffer from infertility. Most common causes of female infertility are as follows.

  • Age
  • Endometriosis
  • Hormonal issues leading to ovulation problems
  • Tubal blockage
  • Fibroids
  • Lifestyle factors: Being overweight, smoking, drinking alcohol, unhealthy diet
  • Unexplained infertility

What effect does age have on a woman's infertility?

Women are born with approximately 2 million eggs in their ovaries. Before a girl reaches puberty, about 11,000 eggs die every month. Thus, in her teenage years, a woman has only about 300,000 to 400,000 eggs available. From this point onwards, about 1000 eggs are utilised every month. This has nothing to do with any form of birth control, pregnancy, hormone production, health, lifestyle or nutritional supplements. Eventually, a woman reaches menopause when she has no viable eggs left.

Does PCOS affect a woman's fertility?

PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) refers to a condition caused by hormonal imbalances. Women suffering from PCOS produce higher than normal amounts of male hormones. This affects ovulation and can result in irregular periods. In some cases, women suffering from PCOS may have irregular periods. This, in turn, can make it harder for these women to conceive. In fact, PCOS is one of the most common causes of female infertility.