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PGS stands for Preimplantation Genetic Screening. It’s a technique used during in vitro fertilization (IVF) to screen embryos for genetic abnormalities before they are transferred to the uterus. In a normal pregnancy, the fetus receives 23 chromosomes from each parent, making it 46. However, due to the defect in eggs or sperm, the count can sometimes be lesser or higher than the standard chromosome count. The condition is called Aneuploidy.
If a couple chooses IVF (in-vitro fertilization) for pregnancy, they might get PGS—Preimplantation Genetic Screening treatment to rule out the possibility of chromosomal abnormality in their child. The test identifies chromosomal defects, like Down and Edwards Syndrome, and abnormalities related to sex chromosomes, like multiple X or Y chromosomes or missing chromosomes.
PGS is part of the IVF treatment. Here’s what the PGS procedure involves:
Since it’s performed in patients who choose IVF, you must undergo the IVF cycle that starts with ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval. Your healthcare provider will prescribe hormonal shots to mature and release multiple eggs from your ovaries at once. These eggs are retrieved through a minimally invasive procedure and are fertilized in a lab.
These fertilized eggs turn into embryos in 3-5 days. A professional embryologist closely monitors this process.
A biopsy could be performed on the third or fifth day of embryo culture. The more developed the embryo is, the higher the number of cells that can be extracted for testing. On the 5th day of embryo formation, the cells are divided into two types—one that forms the placenta and one that forms the fetus. These removed cells are sent to the laboratory for PGS testing.
PGS and PGD are two common screening tests used in an IVF cycle. While both terms might sound the same, they are different screening tests. Let’s compare PGS vs PGD. PGD (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis) is recommended for patients with certain gene mutations or a family history of genetic disorders that can be passed on to the child.
Another difference is that PGS tests the embryo for a specific disorder, while PGS is a broader concept that checks the entire chromosomal structure. The most suitable test for you depends on your reason for considering pre-implantation screening.
A couple that has experienced recurrent miscarriages or is facing difficulty conceiving should undergo PGS treatment. Here’s what makes you an ideal candidate for preimplantation genetic screening.
Maternal Age: Mothers above 35 have considerably lower chances of conceiving naturally than a woman in her 20s. As age increases, so does the risk of complications in pregnancy. PGS reduces the chances of pregnancy loss or your child being born with commonly known chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down Syndrome, Edwards Syndrome, and Turner Syndrome.
Failed IVF: There can be many reasons why IVF doesn’t work for some couples, one of which is chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. If you have had more than one failed IVF, it’s advisable to choose PGS for the next IVF cycle.
Male Factor Infertility: Poor or low sperm count in men can result in male infertility and might require surgical retrieval of the sperm. These parents might also need to undergo Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) for a successful pregnancy. Simply put, couples struggling with male infertility problems should get PGS for a viable pregnancy.
A Family History of Chromosomal Abnormalities: If chromosomal abnormalities run in your family, you might want to get PGS to ensure your child won’t have a chromosomal abnormality.
Data shows that the success rate of pregnancy through IVF was 46% in patients who considered PGS as part of the process, and it resulted in 42% of live births. PGS’s success rate depends on the expertise and qualification of the embryologist conducting the test.
Benefits
If you are looking for the best PGS clinics in Pakistan, the Australian Concept Infertility Medical Center is your best option. With over 26+ years of experience, we are a highly reputable fertility clinic. We provide you with an environment where IVF can be performed safely, the embryos can grow normally, and they can be tested for chromosomal abnormalities. Call us to learn about IVF genetic testing, its benefits and risks, and cost.
PGS treatment cost in Pakistan can vary depending on the fertility clinic and embryologist’s experience.
For First free Consultation Book Now!
32-A, Rojhan Street, Block 5, Kehkashan, Clifton, Next to PRANZO Restaurant, Behind BBQ Tonight, Near BILAWAL Chowrangi, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan 75600
116 Babar Block, Barkat Market, Near Salaar Center, Lahore, 54000.
3rd Floor, Aklas Plaza, G10 Markaz, Behind Babri Masjid, Sawan Road, Islamabad.
The Australian Concept Infertility Medical Center “Australian Concept” was established in 1998 with Australian technical collaboration in Karachi, Pakistan.
