To be accredited to Dr Rasmin Sahu, Fertility Specialist, Birla Fertility & IVF, Cuttack
All parents dream of giving their child the healthiest and happiest life. But for many, especially with a family history of health disorders, this dream comes with quiet worries. What if there’s a genetic condition that we pass on? What if the baby is at risk and we don’t know it yet?
As fertility treatments become more precise and personalised, science is now providing solutions for some of these concerns, even before pregnancy begins.
This World Health Day, it’s worth exploring how couples undergoing IVF can now make informed and empowered decisions for their child’s future, courtesy Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) – a technological advancement that is redefining healthy beginnings.
What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing?
PGT is a scientific technique through which embryologists can screen embryos for genetic abnormalities before the process of implantation. The process begins with fertilisation and formation of embryos. A small sample is taken from the embryo, and its DNA is analysed to detect chromosomal or genetic issues.
Types of PGT and what can they detect?
There are three types of PGT, each designed to screen for different concerns:
PGT-A (for Aneuploidy): This identifies whether an embryo has the right number of chromosomes. It’s particularly beneficial for women of advanced maternal age, those with repeated IVF failures, recurrent miscarriages, or male infertility issues.
PGT-M (for Monogenic Disorders): This test targets monogenic disorders, caused due to mutations within a single gene. PGT-M screening is helpful for couples with a history of genetic disorders such as sickle cell disease, neurofibromatosis, or familial melanoma, among others.
PGT-SR (for Structural Rearrangements): This is used when a parent has a chromosomal rearrangement (like a duplication or deletion) that might not affect them but can cause issues in their child.
With these tests, couples can minimise the risk of passing on genetic conditions, prevent failed implantations, and decrease the chances of miscarriage, all while increasing the likelihood of a healthy birth.
Why Genetic Screening Matters More Today
As more couples delay parenthood due to career, financial, or personal reasons, the risks rise. PGT allows couples to mitigate some of these risks without compromising on their parenthood timelines.
In a time when healthcare is required to be personalised, genetic screening is a good way to future-proof your family’s health.