Treatments
Gender Selection
With today’s advanced reproductive technologies, identifying the gender of your embryos before pregnancy is possible through IVF and comprehensive chromosomal screening through PGT. The combined method of PGT and IVF is the most accurate method available today, with gender selection accuracy nearing 100%. IVF Michigan Fertility Center offers family balancing through gender selection in all of our locations across Michigan and Ohio.
What is PGT?
PGT, also known as embryo screening, is a test performed on a few cells obtained from the embryo and provides the following benefits:
- Check most common chromosomes for any chromosomal abnormality such as Down syndrome and Edwards’ syndrome
- Identify the gender of embryos
- Identify embryos without chromosomal abnormalities for a reduced risk for miscarriage
What are the steps involved in PGT for gender selection?
Completing PGT with an IVF-ICSI cycle does not change the duration of treatment. Following egg retrieval, if the eggs are fertilized successfully, a biopsy is taken from each embryo and tested through PGT. The healthy embryos of the desired gender are then transferred to the uterus during a future cycle. The following steps take place over 15 to 20 days.
Ovarian Stimulation (7 to 10 days):
On day 2 or 3 of the menstrual cycle, medication is prescribed to stimulate the growth of multiple follicles in the ovaries. During this time, follicular growth is monitored through ultrasound as they develop into eggs, and hormone levels are tracked through blood tests. Medication protocols are changed as needed. 36 to 40 hours before the scheduled egg retrieval, a trigger shot is given to induce maturation of the eggs within a scheduled time frame.
Egg Retrieval (OPU):
Eggs are retrieved using a thin ultrasound-guided needle during a short procedure under sedation. The number of eggs retrieved depends on the body’s response to the medication.
Sperm Collection and ICSI:
On the day of egg retrieval, a semen sample is taken to fertilize the retrieved eggs. To increase chances of fertilization, a single sperm is injected into each egg using a micropipette in a method called ICSI.
PGT:
PGT will be completed for family balancing or to screen for any chromosomal abnormalities. 5 days after the egg retrieval, a biopsy is taken from each embryo and tested in the genetics lab. The health and gender of the embryos are identified and discussed with you before the embryo transfer.
Embryo Transfer (ET):
The embryo transfer is a minor procedure that does not require sedation. Following the procedure, hormone levels are tracked through a blood test to confirm pregnancy. Any embryos that are not transferred may be frozen and used in a future cycle.