Improving IVF Outcomes with Genetic Insight in Orange County
For patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), each cycle represents a significant emotional and financial investment. With advancing technology, genetic testing now plays a pivotal role in improving success rates and supporting healthier pregnancies. At Dr. Nidhee Sachdev’s Orange County fertility clinic, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is integrated with compassion and clinical precision to help patients make informed, empowered decisions.
What Is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)?
PGT is a sophisticated technique used during IVF to evaluate embryos for genetic abnormalities before transfer. After eggs are fertilized and grow to the blastocyst stage, a few cells are gently biopsied and analyzed. This helps identify embryos with the correct number of chromosomes (euploid) and those carrying potential anomalies.
There are three main types of PGT:
- PGT-A (Aneuploidy): Screens for abnormal chromosome numbers, reducing miscarriage risk.
- PGT-M (Monogenic diseases): Identifies specific inherited disorders if one or both parents are carriers.
- PGT-SR (Structural rearrangements): Detects chromosomal translocations or inversions.
PGT is performed by a certified genetics lab and coordinated closely with your fertility team to ensure accuracy and safety.
Why Patients Consider Genetic Testing During IVF
Many couples are not familiar with genetic testing options until after multiple failed IVF cycles or early pregnancy losses. However, incorporating PGT earlier in the IVF journey offers several potential advantages:
- Higher implantation rates
- Lower miscarriage risk
- Reduced need for multiple transfers
- Increased chance of single embryo transfer success
- Peace of mind when known genetic risks exist
Patients often feel more in control when they understand the genetic health of their embryos before transfer.
Our Tailored Approach to Embryo Screening
Dr. Sachdev evaluates each couple’s unique medical and reproductive history to determine if PGT is appropriate. Considerations include:
- Advanced maternal age
- History of recurrent pregnancy loss
- Prior failed IVF attempts
- Known genetic conditions or carrier status
- Male factor infertility or abnormal karyotype
When indicated, Dr. Sachdev collaborates with genetic counselors to ensure patients understand the implications of testing and feel supported in decision-making. Chromosomally normal embryos are prioritized for transfer, which may improve IVF outcomes while lowering the risk of miscarriage.
What to Expect from the Genetic Testing Process
After retrieval and fertilization, embryos are cultured to day 5,6 or 7. A specialized embryologist biopsies each blastocyst and freezes the embryo while awaiting results. Results are typically available in 7 to 10 days. Only embryos that meet both clinical and genetic criteria are considered for transfer. While no test guarantees a successful pregnancy, genetic testing offers a more strategic and informed pathway to parenthood.
Who Is a Candidate for PGT?
PGT may be recommended for:
- Women over age 35
- Couples with recurrent miscarriage
- Patients with two or more failed IVF cycles
- Known genetic disorders in the family
- Male factor infertility
- LGBTQ+ couples using donor gametes who wish to screen embryos
PGT is optional and should be discussed in the context of each patient’s values, goals, and reproductive history. Not all patients will benefit equally, and Dr. Sachdev offers balanced, individualized guidance to support ethical and effective care.
Explore IVF with Confidence and Clarity
For couples navigating fertility in Orange County, access to advanced testing should never come at the cost of compassionate care. Dr. Nidhee Sachdev ensures that every patient receives the highest standard of IVF support merging the latest technology with a personalized, ethical approach. To learn whether PGT may enhance your IVF success, schedule a private consultation today.