The process of PGD or Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis involves removing certain cells from an embryo to conduct genetic and chromosomal testing. PGD is a technique performed after a successful retrieval and fertilization of eggs. PGD IVF is used to distinguish which embryo is most likely a carrier of genetic abnormalities/diseases and also to help determine the embryo's gender.
PGD IVF Genetic Screening - Biopsy Procedure
PGD IVF biopsy procedure involves an incision of a small laser needle into the embryo's outer shell layer called "zona pellucida" to create a small hole. Another method used is by spraying an acidic solution to the embryo's zona pellucida. Once a hole is achieved, one or more cells are ready to be removed for testing. This procedure involves three methods:
Polar Body Biopsy (PB)
A polar body is a cell structure found inside an ovum and this procedure involves removing the first and second polar body. The first polar body is a structure from an unfertilized oocyte while the second polar body is from the zygote. These cell structures don't impose any threat to the embryo's growth or to the chances of implantation.
Cleavage Stage Biopsy or Blastomere Biopsy
This method is usually done after 3 days of fertilization or when the embryo has split into eight cells. Two blastomeres which contain nuclei are removed to be analyzed.
Blastocyst Biopsy
Accuracy of the diagnosis from blastocyst biopsy is higher compared to the other two methods. When an embryo reaches its blastocyst stage it would be easier to diagnose the cells' genetic information. But just like cleavage stage biopsy, it doesn't provide enough evidence that a certain cell may or may not carry any future disorders.
Disorders detected by PGD IVF
Through a PGD IVF procedure almost any type of genetic disorder can be detected but the most common life threatening genetic diseases are hemophilia A, cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease/anemia, spinal muscular atrophy and Huntington's disease.
PGD IVF used in Gender Selection
Latest news of PGD IVF for gender selection has reached up to nearly 100% success rate. This means that anyone who undergoes PGD gender selection has a high chance of having a baby with the gender of their choice.
PGD IVF Steps in Determining an Embryos' Gender
In an IVF procedure, the eggs are retrieved from the woman's uterus. After which, the egg and sperm are combined to promote fertilization. Once successfully fertilized, the eggs will be stored until third day or when the embryo splits into six or eight cells. Following the PGD IVF genetic screening procedure, only a single cell will be removed and analyzed. From the cell's analyzed chromosomal composition, the embryo's gender can be determined. If the couple chooses to have a baby boy then only the male embryos will be returned back to the woman's uterus. If they choose to have a baby girl, then only the female embryos are implanted.
Originally PGD IVF was used only for medical and psychological reasons and for the benefit of the baby and the mother. But nowadays most clinics offer PGD IVF to choose the gender of the baby which has become a worldwide controversial issue and many believe this to be unethical.