Genetic Testing in In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in Georgia: CGP and PGD

PGS and PGD

Thanks to advances in biomedicine, it is now possible to analyze embryos during an in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment to identify genetic or chromosomal abnormalities before transferring them to the uterus. These tests, known as Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD), help increase pregnancy success rates and reduce complications.

At Unneva, a fertility clinic in Georgia, we include these tests within our IVF programs, supported by specialized laboratories and a medical team with extensive experience in reproductive genetics.

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Why Perform Genetic Testing on Embryos?

PGS and PGD are key tools that allow:

• Prevention of miscarriages

• Reduction of implantation failures

• Avoidance of severe genetic diseases

• Detection of chromosomal disorders such as trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)

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Most frequent indications:

• Women over 35 years old

• Couples with a history of recurrent miscarriages

• Patients with failed IVF attempts

• Families with known hereditary diseases

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What is Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS)?

PGS evaluates whether embryos have the correct number of chromosomes. It does not detect specific genetic mutations, but it can identify chromosomal abnormalities that affect development.

Examples include:

• Down syndrome (trisomy 21)

• Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18)

• Patau syndrome (trisomy 13)

 With this screening, we select the chromosomally healthiest embryos, increasing the chances of implantation and a successful pregnancy.

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What is Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)?

PGD allows the detection of monogenic hereditary diseases when one or both parents are carriers. It is an essential tool to prevent the transmission of severe diseases to children.

Examples of detectable diseases:

• Cystic fibrosis

• Hemophilia

• Duchenne muscular dystrophy

• Huntington’s disease

• Marfan syndrome

• Osteogenesis imperfecta

• Polycystic kidney disease

• Glycogen storage disease

• Neurofibromatosis

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When and How Are These Tests Performed?

• After fertilization and before embryo transfer

• On days 5 to 7 of development, through embryo biopsy

• Extracted cells are analyzed in a specialized genetic laboratory

• Results are usually available within 2–3 weeks

• Embryos remain vitrified, and only those with favorable results are transferred

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Are PGS and PGD Recommended in IVF?

These tests are not mandatory, but they provide clear benefits:

• Lower risk of IVF failure

• Reduced possibility of transmitting genetic diseases

• Higher chances of achieving a healthy and safe pregnancy

The decision must be made together with the fertility specialist, considering each couple’s clinical history.

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Conclusion: The Importance of Genetic Testing in IVF

PGS and PGD are decisive tools for those who wish to increase the chances of success in an IVF treatment in Georgia.

At Unneva, we offer:

• Specialized medical counseling

• Laboratories with cutting-edge technology

• Complete IVF programs with the option of genetic testing

If you are considering IVF in Georgia, contact us for personalized guidance and to make informed decisions on your journey to parenthood.