Services / Consultation & Testing

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)

At the Southern California Center for Reproductive Medicine (SCCRM), we are dedicated to helping individuals and families achieve their dreams of parenthood using advanced tools like Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT). PGT is a transformative genetic test performed during an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle to enhance fertility treatment success and minimize the risk of genetic disorders.

By safely biopsying a few cells from the outer layer of a developing embryo (blastocyst), PGT screens for chromosomal abnormalities or specific genetic conditions. This process allows us to identify the healthiest embryos for transfer, significantly improving the chances of a successful pregnancy and reducing the risk of miscarriage or inherited conditions, giving patients greater confidence and peace of mind.

Types of PGT

We offer three main types of PGT, each tailored to address different genetic and reproductive challenges. PGT is particularly beneficial for patients undergoing IVF who want to optimize embryo selection, couples with a history of genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities, women of advanced maternal age, individuals who have experienced recurrent miscarriage or failed IVF cycles, and those seeking family balancing options.

PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy)

PGT-A is used to screen embryos for chromosomal abnormalities, such as missing or extra chromosomes (aneuploidy), which can lead to implantation failure, miscarriage, or genetic disorders like Down syndrome.

    • Women of advanced maternal age (35+ years), as the risk of chromosomal abnormalities increases with age

    • Patients with a history of recurrent miscarriages or failed IVF cycles

    • Couples who want to increase their chances of implantation success

    • Individuals seeking to minimize the risk of chromosomal abnormalities

PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Diseases)

PGT-M identifies embryos carrying specific genetic conditions caused by single-gene mutations, such as cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs disease, or sickle cell anemia. This testing is particularly valuable for families with a known history of inherited disorders.

    • Couples who are carriers of genetic conditions

    • Individuals with a family history of monogenic diseases

    • Patients pursuing family balancing or gender selection for medical or personal reasons

PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements)

PGT-SR is designed for individuals with known structural chromosomal abnormalities, such as translocations or inversions, which can lead to unbalanced embryos, miscarriage, or implantation failure.

    • Patients with a history of chromosomal rearrangements

    • Couples experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss or implantation failures due to structural abnormalities

    • Individuals who want to minimize the risk of passing on chromosomal issues

The PGT process

The Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) process begins during an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle, where embryos are created in the laboratory. Once the embryos reach the blastocyst stage, a few cells are carefully biopsied from their outer layer without harming the embryo. These cells are then sent to a specialized laboratory for detailed genetic analysis to screen for chromosomal abnormalities or specific genetic conditions. While testing is conducted, the embryos are safely frozen for later use. Based on the results, the healthiest embryos are selected for transfer, maximizing the chances of a successful pregnancy and minimizing the risk of miscarriage or inherited disorders.

  1. Embryo Creation
    During an IVF cycle, eggs are fertilized in the laboratory to create embryos.

  2. Embryo Biopsy
    A few cells are gently removed from the outer layer of each embryo at the blastocyst stage. This process is non-invasive to the embryo itself.

  3. Genetic Analysis
    The biopsied cells are sent to a specialized laboratory for analysis, where geneticists screen for abnormalities or specific genetic markers.

  4. Embryo Selection
    Based on the results, the healthiest embryos are selected for transfer. Viable embryos that are not immediately used can be frozen for future cycles.

Key reasons to consider PGT

Benefits of PGT

Higher Success Rates

PGT increases the likelihood of implantation and a successful pregnancy by identifying the healthiest embryos.

1

Reduced Risk of Miscarriage

Screening for chromosomal abnormalities helps avoid the transfer of embryos with a high risk of miscarriage.

2

Detection of Genetic Disorders

PGT identifies embryos with inherited genetic conditions, enabling informed decision-making.

3

Efficiency and Confidence

PGT allows patients to move forward with greater confidence, reducing the emotional and financial strain of unsuccessful cycles.

4

Why Choose SCCRM for PGT?

PGT at SCCRM

At SCCRM, we combine state-of-the-art technology with decades of expertise to ensure the highest standards of care. Our team of experienced embryologists and genetic specialists works closely with you to provide personalized recommendations based on your unique needs. As leaders in reproductive medicine, Dr. Robert Anderson and Dr. Don Royster have pioneered advancements in fertility care, including the integration of PGT into IVF protocols to maximize success rates.

Our commitment to innovation, transparency, and patient-centered care ensures that you receive the best possible outcomes. SCCRM’s PGT services are part of our comprehensive fertility treatment options, designed to give you the best chance of achieving a healthy pregnancy.

Start your journey with SCCRM

If you are considering PGT as part of your fertility treatment, our team at SCCRM is here to guide you through the process with compassion and expertise. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how PGT can help you take the next step toward building the healthy family you’ve always dreamed of.