Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements (PGT-SR) can detect balanced chromosomal rearrangements to provide peace of mind
Sometimes, infertility is due to hormonal issues or structural problems in the reproductive system. However, in other cases, chromosomal differences can make it more difficult to conceive and welcome a healthy baby. Thankfully, our Las Vegas infertility center offers innovative fertility treatments and different types of preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). When patients have balanced chromosomal rearrangements, IVF and PGT-SR can make parenthood possible.
What are balanced chromosomal rearrangements?
The team at our Las Vegas infertility center says someone has a chromosomal rearrangement when pieces of their chromosomes are missing, duplicated or in a different position.
When a person has a balanced rearrangement, they have a complete set of genetic information. Some of the pieces of their chromosomes are just in different locations.
About 1 in 1,000 people have balanced chromosomal rearrangements, so this issue is quite common. However, problems can sometimes arise when people with this issue try to conceive.
- Recurrent pregnancy loss
- IVF cycle failure
- Children with birth defects
The good news is that IVF with PGT-SR can help patients who have been struggling.
How can PGT-SR help patients have healthy babies?
Our Las Vegas infertility center typically recommends that patients undergo basic genetic testing to learn whether they carry any genetic illnesses or chromosomal differences. If a patient learns that they carry a chromosomal rearrangement, a genetic counselor will talk to them about the option to pursue IVF with preimplantation genetic testing for structural chromosome rearrangements, or PGT-SR.
This type of testing occurs between the steps of fertilization in the lab and embryo transfer. An embryologist takes a tiny sample of cells from each IVF embryo. They then send these cells for specialized testing to locate balanced chromosomal rearrangements.
After completing the testing, the facility will send a PGT-SR report to the patient’s fertility doctor. These results can help the doctor select a chromosomally normal embryo for transfer. While there are no 100% guarantees with genetic testing, it does greatly increase the likelihood of having a successful pregnancy and healthy baby.
If you would like to learn more about fertility testing and treatment at The Fertility Center of Las Vegas, contact us. We can help you explore your options on the path to parenthood.
