Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS), also known as Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A), is a technique used during in vitro fertilization (IVF) to check embryos for genetic issues before they are implanted. Let’s delve into what PGS/PGT-A is, its advantages, and the things to think about when using it.

Understanding the Process of IVF-PGS

In IVF with Preimplantation Genetic Screening (IVF-PGS), the biopsy is typically performed at the blastocyst stage, typically on the fifth or sixth day of embryo development. The embryos are then frozen at the clinic, while the biopsies are conducted in the laboratory. During PGS, each embryo biopsy undergoes screening, assessing the number of chromosomes in each sample.

The results may indicate an average number of chromosomes, suggesting a relatively high chance of a healthy pregnancy. On the other hand, an abnormal number of chromosomes could imply a risk of miscarriage or other complications.

The Pros of PGS/PGT-A:

1. Increased Pregnancy Success Rates: PGS/PGT-A helps find embryos with the right number of chromosomes, making it more likely for them to implant successfully and reducing the risk of miscarriage. This increases the chances of having a healthy pregnancy.
2. Lower Risk of Genetic Disorders: PGS/PGT-A identifies embryos with genetic issues, such as Down syndrome or Trisomy 21. For couples with a family history of genetic disorders, using PGS/PGT-A can reduce the chance of passing these conditions to their child.
3. More Accurate Embryo Selection: PGS/PGT-A gives detailed information about the chromosomes of embryos, helping select the healthiest ones for transfer. This makes the process of selecting embryos more efficient and improves the chances of a successful pregnancy.
4. Reduced Chance of Multiple Pregnancies: By choosing embryos with the right number of chromosomes through PGS/PGT-A, there’s less need to transfer multiple embryos. This lowers the likelihood of having multiple pregnancies, which come with higher risks for both the mother and the babies.

The Cons of PGS/PGT-A:

1. Possibility of Incorrect Results: While PGS/PGT-A is quite accurate, there is a small chance of getting false positive or false negative results. This means an embryo might be classified as normal or abnormal based on the analyzed cells, but the rest of the embryo might have a different chromosomal makeup.
2. Limited Scope of Testing: PGS/PGT-A only focuses on numerical chromosomal abnormalities and doesn’t check for all genetic conditions. It’s essential to know that PGS/PGT-A doesn’t guarantee a completely healthy baby, as it may not detect all potential genetic disorders or abnormalities.
3. Added Costs and Procedures: PGS/PGT-A adds an extra step to the IVF process, which means additional costs. The biopsy procedure itself carries a slight risk of damaging the embryo. Moreover, the extra laboratory testing makes the overall IVF treatment more expensive.
4. Ethical Considerations: Using PGS/PGT-A raises ethical concerns about selecting embryos, as it might lead to discarding embryos labeled as abnormal. This can be ethically challenging for some individuals or couples with personal beliefs or moral objections regarding the selection and disposal of embryos.

Exploring Alternatives to IVF-PGS

While In Vitro Fertilization with Preimplantation Genetic Screening (IVF-PGS) is a common method to detect genetic anomalies in embryos, there are alternative approaches that may be considered:

1. Chronic Villus Sampling (CVS): This involves a biopsy of the placenta around 10-12 weeks into pregnancy. If any anomalies are detected, termination is a possible consideration.
2. Amniocentesis: Conducted around 16-18 weeks into pregnancy, this procedure tests the amniotic fluid for anomalies. Termination remains an option if needed.
3. Ultrasound and Blood Tests: While combining ultrasound and blood tests may offer an alternative, it’s essential to note that procedures like CVS and amniocentesis generally provide higher accuracy rates.
4. Donor Eggs or Sperms: In situations with a high risk of inherited diseases, opting for donor eggs or sperms could be considered.

It’s crucial to recognize that PGS is an additional test and couples considering such procedures should consult with medical professionals beforehand. Exploring alternative methods and understanding their implications can aid couples in making informed decisions based on their specific needs and circumstances.

Read more : Can You Lower My FSH Level? By Dr Firuza Parikh

Final Thoughts 

PGS/PGT-A is a valuable tool in assisted reproductive technology, offering crucial information about the chromosomes of embryos to help select healthy ones for transfer. It brings numerous benefits, including higher pregnancy success rates, a lower risk of genetic disorders, and better accuracy in choosing embryos. However, it’s essential to weigh the potential drawbacks and ethical considerations linked with PGS/PGT-A. Seeking guidance from a fertility specialist can assist individuals in making informed decisions based on their unique circumstances and preferences.