PGD: Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis: Definition & Explanation
Preimplantation genetic diagnosis, or PGD, is a procedure used during IVF to screen embryos for genetic or chromosomal disorders. Several days after fertilization occurs during IVF treatment, one cell is removed from an eight-cell embryo and screened for specific disorders.
When Is PGD Recommended?
PGD is ideal for couples or individuals concerned with passing a genetic disease or chromosomal abnormality on to their children. Patients who have experienced unsuccessful IVF cycles or recurrent miscarriages and/or have elected sex selection for medical reasons are also excellent candidates for PGD.
PGD — Getting Started
If you believe that IVF with PGD is right for you, the first step toward getting IVF treatment is to schedule a consultation. During your appointment, you will meet with one of our board-certified fertility specialists, who will help you craft an affordable and effective fertility treatment plan. Our financial counselors will also be available to walk you through our payment plans & insurance options.
PGD — Related Topics
Preimplantation genetic diagnosis is commonly used in combination with IVF. Learn more about other advanced IVF procedures, including:
View more infertility treatments
The PGD Process
IVF can be a challenging step on your journey to parenthood. In order to help you understand what is involved in IVF and PGD, we have provided a step-by-step breakdown of the preimplantation genetic diagnosis process:
- Step 1 — IVF Preparation: Fertility medications are prescribed to stimulate the production of several eggs. The eggs are then retrieved from a woman’s ovaries through a quick, minimally invasive procedure.
- Step 2 — Laboratory: The eggs and semen are then prepared for IVF in the laboratory. Eggs are identified and examined for maturity while the semen is prepared through a process called sperm washing.
- Step 3 — Fertilization: In a process called ICSI, a single sperm is isolated by a hollow glass needle and injected into the center of an egg. Resulting embryos are incubated together for about three-five days until the embryo divides into eight cells.
- Step 4 — PGD and Embryo Transfer: One of the cells from an eight-cell embryo is removed to be tested for genetic or chromosomal abnormalities. The healthiest embryos are identified and then transferred to the woman’s uterus through a catheter.
- Step 5 — Follow-Up: After IVF with PGD you will be closely monitored the following two weeks and then given a pregnancy test. With expert treatment, attentive care and just a little luck, you will have a positive result. Then it is time to start planning for the new addition to your family!
Possible PGD side effects include multiple births, minor physical discomfort and stress.
Facts about PGD: Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis
- PGD is also referred to as embryo screening.
- PGD can detect genetic defects such as Huntington’s disease, Tay-Sachs disease, cystic fibrosis and much more.