What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing?

Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) involves removing several cells from each embryo and analyzing r the chromosomes for abnormalities, which could result in failed implantation, miscarriage, or genetic conditions or diseases. PGT is performed on embryos created through IVF and takes place before the embryos are transferred to the uterus.

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Our Preimplantation Genetic Testing Process 

Our team of fertility specialists at CCRM Fertility of Arizona, will guide you through the entire preimplantation genetic testing process. First, we will perform an IVF cycle to retrieve your eggs and fertilize them with sperm in our laboratory. After the embryos have been cultured to the blastocyst stage, our embryologists will extract a few cells from each embryo and analyze them using state-of-the-art genetic testing technology. Based on the results of this analysis, we will help you select the healthiest embryos to transfer to the uterus giving you the best chance of success.

Signs Preimplantation Genetic Testing is Right for You

There are several reasons why someone might consider preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). Ideal candidates for PGT include:

• Patients with a known history of genetic disorders
• Patients who have had recurrent pregnancy loss or failed IVF cycles
• Patients who are carriers of certain genetic mutations
• Patients using eggs from someone older than 35 because the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in embryos increases with age
• Patients who wish to use IVF for family balancing or gender selection purposes

What are the Requirements for Preimplantation Genetic Testing in Arizona? 

Preimplantation genetic testing is only possible on embryos created during IVF. The IVF process with PGT at CCRM Fertility of Arizona, involves:

• Taking medications to stimulate the ovaries to grow multiple eggs 
• Surgical retrieval of mature eggs 
• Fertilization of those eggs with prepared sperm in our laboratory
• Culture of embryos to the blastocyst stage (5 or 6 days)
• Removal of several cells from each embryo
• Analysis of the chromosomes in the biopsied cells
• Embryos free of chromosomal abnormalities are then frozen and can be transferred to the patient when they are ready

Our team will conduct a thorough evaluation of your medical history and you will undergo comprehensive fertility testing to find out if PGT is right for you.

Types of Preimplantation Genetic Testing offered at CCRM Fertility of Arizona

PGT for Aneuploidy (PGT-A)

PGT-A, also known as comprehensive chromosomal screening (CCS), analyzes embryos for chromosomal abnormalities, which can cause certain genetic disorders, result in miscarriage or failed implantation. PGT-A is typically recommended for patients who have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss/miscarriages, have a history of failed IVF cycles, as well as women who are older than 35 & at increased risk for chromosomal abnormalities in embryos.

PGT-A also allows patients to choose the sex of their baby by analyzing the sex chromosomes of an embryo during the IVF process and can be used for family balancing purposes.

Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders (PGT-M Testing)

PGT-M is used to analyze embryos for specific genetic mutations that can cause certain inherited diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs disease, muscular dystrophy, sickle cell anemia, and hereditary cancers. This type of testing is typically recommended for individuals or couples who are carriers of known genetic mutations.

Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Chromosomal Structural Rearrangements (PGT-SR Testing)

PGT-SR testing is used to analyze embryos for structural chromosomal rearrangements, which can cause certain genetic disorders or lead to miscarriage. The two common types of chromosomal rearrangements CCRM Fertility Arizona can help with are:

• Reciprocal Translocations: segments of two different chromosomes break off and change places
• Inversions: a segment of a chromosome has reversed orientation

PGT-SR testing is recommended for patients is recommended for people who are carriers of a balanced translocation or inversion and wish to conceive a baby.

Benefits of Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)

At CCRM Fertility of Arizona, we understand the critical role that Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) plays in improving IVF outcomes. Over time, advancements in genetic screening have greatly enhanced the ability to detect chromosomal abnormalities in embryos, leading to higher pregnancy rates and reduced miscarriage risks.

With the evolution of techniques such as 23-Chromosome Microarray and PCR, we now provide more accurate testing to ensure that only chromosomally-normal embryos are transferred. This testing has significantly increased IVF success rates and has been especially beneficial for women over 35 or those with recurrent IVF failures or genetic disorders.

In addition, performing embryo biopsies on day 5-6 blastocysts, instead of earlier, has shown to improve outcomes, and our use of frozen embryo transfers (FET) after PGT can increase pregnancy rates by up to 30%. By combining this testing with advanced protocols, we help reduce the risks of genetic abnormalities, failed cycles, and miscarriages, giving patients greater peace of mind.

If you’re interested in maximizing your chances of a successful pregnancy through PGT, contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our Arizona fertility specialists.

The Cost of Preimplantation Genetic Testing in Arizona

The cost of preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) in Arizona can vary depending on several factors, including the type of PGT being performed, the number of embryos being tested, and any additional services or medications required. At CCRM Fertility of Arizona, the cost of IVF with PGT testing ranges from $17,100 – $23,950.