Preimplantation Genetic Testing in Miami, FL
Advances in reproductive medicine now allow fertility specialists to evaluate the genetic health of embryos before pregnancy begins. Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is an advanced screening technique used during in vitro fertilization (IVF) to identify chromosomal abnormalities and certain inherited genetic conditions.
Preimplantation Genetic Testing
At White Glove Fertility, preimplantation genetic testing helps physicians select embryos with the highest potential for healthy development. This advanced technology provides valuable information that can improve pregnancy success rates while reducing the risk of genetic disorders.
Patients from Miami, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, and surrounding South Florida communities seek PGT testing to support informed reproductive decisions and increase the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy.
What Is Preimplantation Genetic Testing?
Preimplantation Genetic Testing is a laboratory procedure performed during IVF that analyzes the genetic material of embryos before transfer into the uterus.
After fertilization occurs in the laboratory, embryos develop for several days. A small number of cells are then carefully biopsied from the embryo and sent to a specialized genetics laboratory for testing.
These tests evaluate the chromosomes or specific genes within the embryo. The results help fertility specialists identify embryos with normal genetic patterns and select those with the highest potential for healthy development.
By screening embryos before transfer, physicians can reduce the likelihood of genetic abnormalities and improve IVF outcomes
Why Preimplantation Genetic Testing Is Performed
Sperm donation is recommended when male fertility factors prevent natural conception.
| Have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss | Are of advanced maternal age | Have had multiple unsuccessful IVF cycles |
| Carry inherited genetic conditions | Have known chromosomal rearrangements | Want to reduce the risk of genetic disease |
Types of Preimplantation Genetic Testing
PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy)
PGT-A evaluates embryos for abnormal chromosome numbers.
Humans normally have 46 chromosomes, arranged in 23 pairs. When embryos have missing or extra chromosomes, implantation may fail or pregnancy complications may occur.
PGT-A helps identify embryos with normal chromosomal structures, which can improve implantation rates and reduce the risk of miscarriage.
This form of testing is commonly recommended for patients undergoing IVF who are over age 35 or who have experienced repeated IVF failures.
PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders)
PGT-M screens embryos for specific inherited genetic diseases caused by mutations in a single gene.
This testing is recommended for families who carry known genetic conditions such as: cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, Tay-Sachs disease, Huntington’s disease, and certain hereditary cancers
PGT-M allows embryos to be screened for these conditions before pregnancy begins.
PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements)
PGT-SR evaluates embryos for structural chromosomal rearrangements such as translocations or inversions.
These chromosomal changes can affect embryo development and increase the risk of miscarriage. Patients who carry balanced chromosomal rearrangements often benefit from PGT-SR testing during IVF cycles.
This testing helps identify embryos with normal chromosomal structures suitable for transfer.
The Preimplantation Genetic Testing Process
Preimplantation genetic testing occurs during an IVF treatment cycle and involves several carefully coordinated steps.
IVF Cycle and Egg Retrieval
The process begins with ovarian stimulation to encourage the development of multiple eggs. Once eggs mature, they are retrieved and fertilized in the laboratory using sperm.
The fertilized eggs develop into embryos over several days.
Embryo Development
Embryos are cultured in the laboratory for approximately five to six days until they reach the blastocyst stage. At this stage, embryos contain many cells and can safely undergo biopsy for genetic testing.
Embryo Biopsy
A small number of cells are carefully removed from the outer layer of the embryo. This procedure does not damage the embryo’s ability to develop.
The cells are sent to a specialized genetics laboratory for analysis.
Genetic Laboratory Testing
The biopsied cells undergo advanced genetic analysis to evaluate chromosomes or specific gene mutations.
Testing typically takes several days, and results identify which embryos have normal genetic profiles.
Embryo Selection and Transfer
Based on the test results, fertility specialists select embryos with healthy genetic characteristics for transfer into the uterus during a frozen embryo transfer cycle.
Selecting genetically healthy embryos may increase implantation rates and reduce the risk of miscarriage.
Genetic Counseling and Patient Guidance
Genetic counseling plays an important role in preimplantation genetic testing. Genetic counselors help patients understand their risk for inherited conditions and explain how testing may influence treatment decisions.
During genetic counseling sessions, patients receive guidance on:
- Inherited genetic conditions
- Interpretation of genetic test results
- Reproductive options available through IVF and PGT
Counseling ensures that patients fully understand the implications of genetic testing and can make informed decisions about their fertility care.
Benefits of Preimplantation Genetic Testing
Preimplantation genetic testing offers several advantages for patients undergoing IVF.
These benefits may include:
| Improved embryo selection | Increased likelihood of successful implantation | Reduced risk of miscarriage |
| Lower risk of inherited genetic conditions | More informed fertility treatment planning |
We Use Advanced Reproductive Genetics Technology
| Next-generation sequencing (NGS) | Advanced chromosomal analysis |
| Embryo biopsy techniques | Embryo cryopreservation |
Schedule a Genetic Testing Consultation
Preimplantation genetic testing provides valuable insights into embryo health and can support informed fertility decisions. A consultation with a fertility specialist can help determine whether genetic screening is appropriate for your IVF treatment plan.
White Glove Fertility provides advanced genetic testing services for patients throughout Miami and South Florida.
Schedule a consultation today to learn more about preimplantation genetic testing.
Frequently Asked Questions