Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD), also known as Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), is a state-of-the-art fertility procedure performed during an IVF cycle to screen embryos for genetic abnormalities before they are transferred into the uterus. This advanced screening helps couples: Reduce risk of chromosomal disorders Improve chance of successful pregnancy Prevent heritable genetic diseases Improve implantation outcomes At Atharva Infertility Centre, Nashik, we integrate PGD/PGT with advanced IVF protocols using world-class genetic labs and expert reproductive specialists. This ensures scientifically-guided treatment for couples at risk of genetic issues.
What is Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD/PGT)?
PGD/PGT is an advanced ART technique that evaluates embryo health before uterine transfer. After embryos are created through IVF, a few cells are safely biopsied from each embryo. Those cells are analyzed for genetic and chromosomal abnormalities.
This allows physicians to transfer embryos that are:
- Genetically normal
- Less likely to miscarry
- Healthier for future pregnancy and child outcome
Unlike traditional IVF — which does not assess embryo genetics — PGD/PGT offers a targeted approach to maximize success and minimize risk.
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Who Should Consider PGD/PGT in Nashik?
PGD is recommended for couples with: ✔ Known Genetic Conditions Parents carrying genetic mutations (e.g., Thalassemia, SMA, Cystic Fibrosis) ✔ Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Multiple miscarriages due to chromosomal abnormalities ✔ Advanced Maternal Age Reduced egg quality with age increases aneuploidy risk ✔ Previous IVF Failure Failed implantation without clear diagnosis ✔ Severe Male Factor Infertility High sperm abnormalities leading to poor embryo quality ✔ Unexplained Infertility When standard treatments aren’t identifying underlying embryo issues
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Types of Genetic Screening
1. PGT-A (Aneuploidy Screening) Checks if embryos have the correct number of chromosomes Useful for: Recurrent miscarriage Advanced maternal age 2. PGT-M (Monogenic / Single Gene Disorders) Detects specific inherited genetic conditions Essential when: Parents are carriers of a known mutation 3. PGT-SR (Structural Rearrangement) Used when one partner carries chromosomal rearrangements Helps reduce embryo abnormality risk
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How PGD/PGT Works – Step by Step
Step 1: IVF Stimulation & Egg Retrieval Female partner undergoes controlled ovarian stimulation to produce multiple eggs. Step 2: Fertilization (ICSI) Fertilization is performed in the lab, often using ICSI to maximize fertilization success. Step 3: Embryo Culture Embryos are cultured to the blastocyst stage (Day 5–6). Step 4: Embryo Biopsy A few cells from each embryo are carefully removed using micromanipulation — a safe and standardized medical step. Step 5: Genetic Analysis Biopsied cells are tested using advanced genetic platforms: NGS (Next-Generation Sequencing) Array CGH PCR (where applicable) Step 6: Embryo Selection and Transfer Genetically normal embryos are selected and transferred into the uterus. Step 7: Pregnancy Support & Confirmation Follow-up monitoring and pregnancy testing complete the cycle.
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Clinical Advantages of PGD/PGT
🧬 Higher Implantation Rates Accurate embryo selection improves pregnancy chances. 🧬 Reduced Miscarriage Risk Abnormal embryos are identified and not transferred. 🧬 Targeted Genetic Prevention Reduces risk of inherited disorders. 🧬 Improved Live Birth Outcomes Healthier embryos support healthier pregnancies
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Success & Safety Considerations
PGD/PGT does not guarantee pregnancy — but significantly improves outcomes in selected couples. Success depends on: Maternal age Quality of eggs and sperm Embryo development Laboratory standards At Atharva Infertility Centre: ✔ Genetic testing is performed in collaboration with certified labs ✔ Embryo biopsy is conducted by experienced embryologists ✔ Results are interpreted with reproductive genetic specialists
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Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis: Myths vs Facts
PGD guarantees pregnancy Biopsy harms embryos Only for expensive treatment Genetic testing is only for old age No, but it improves chances Modern biopsy techniques are safe It’s recommended based on medical need Not true — any carrier risk situation benefits from PGD
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Who Benefits Most from PGD/PGT in Nashik
Ideal Candidates: ✔ Couples with family genetic history ✔ Couples with multiple miscarriages ✔ IVF failure cases ✔ Couples wishing to reduce risk of chromosomal abnormalities ✔ Age > 35 with fertility challenges
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How PGD/PGT Improves IVF Journey
International-standard IVF & genetic labs Experienced reproductive endocrinologists Certified embryologists skilled in embryo biopsy Personalized genetic counseling Transparent treatment plans and cost breakdown Ongoing emotional and medical support We provide a comprehensive patient experience—from pre-test counseling to post-transfer follow-up.
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ICSI + PGD Combo – When It’s Most Effective
In most genetic testing cases, ICSI is recommended before biopsy because: Fertilization needs controlled precision Genetic testing requires day-5 blastocyst biopsy ICSI reduces risk of mixed embryo cell contribution This ensures more reliable genetic results.
Having a child in life is a blessing and preparing to bring one needs effort from both partners. Standing together at every life stage will help you better sail through the hard times. Your physical and mental wellbeing during the IVF process can enhance your chances of having a successful pregnancy and enjoying parenthood.
