Can IVF Success Rates Improve?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) continues to be an effective solution for those struggling with infertility. Yet, the success rate still stands at a 40% conception rate and 21.3% live birth rate. IVF centers are constantly seeking ways to improve success. With techniques like preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), couples may be able to expect an even better result.
Can PGD really help?
PGD is a process where clinics screen an embryo before implantation. By performing a biopsy on embryos, fertility specialists can assess the embryo’s health. As a result, both the couple and the fertility specialist can take steps to improve success. As this is an added step in the IVF process, couples can opt-out of getting the diagnosis done. But there are benefits that far outweigh the cost and extra time needed. Here’s why choosing PGD might be beneficial for IVF cycles.
Is your infertility “unexplained”?
Unexplained infertility contributes to 15% of all infertility cases in America. PGD allows comprehensive tests on the embryos. Doctors can then implant only the healthiest embryos in IVF cycles. This increases the chances of a full-term pregnancy.
Improving chances with PGD
Over the last three decades, PGD has improved IVF significantly. For instance, studies show a decrease in IVF miscarriages of nearly 40%. Similarly, PGD has an 18% boost in pregnancy rates compared to those not performing the test. Regardless of the reason for infertility, screening can give a much-needed boost in odds for parents-to-be.
Avoiding defects with careful diagnosis
Concerned about passing on an illness to the child? One or both partners can have a single gene defect which the baby can inherit. Common genetic diseases include sickle cell anemia, fragile X syndrome (FXS) and cystic fibrosis. During PGD, a biopsy checks for thousands of known genetic defects. Clinics can then use healthy embryos free of possible disease. IVF can be a stressful process. Knowing the future child will be free of gene defects brings much-needed relief.
One cycle, one baby
IVF has a higher rate of multiple births such as twins or triplets. Doctors usually implant multiple embryos with the expectation that at least one will last full-term. With PGD, clinics select the highest quality embryos for implantation. That means centers can use one per IVF cycle since each embryo has been vetted.
A better IVF future
For couples trying for a second child after a first IVF attempt, PGD makes the process smoother. Once IVF has been successful, clinics preserve the embryos for future use. So if couples need IVF again, the experience becomes less stressful. Furthermore, couples can donate embryos to others or for genetic research.
The unmatched benefits of PGD
The preimplantation genetic diagnosis can improve IVF. Centers are investing in techniques for greater control over the success of IVF. With benefits like decreased miscarriages and reduced genetic defects, more couples are taking the time for PGD. Speak with the skilled professionals of an IVF center for more guidance.
