Fertility treatments
Genetic testing
Pre-implantation Genetic Testing (PGT) of embryos is designed to uncover specific genes that could result in a disease or chromosomal abnormalities that could prevent a successful pregnancy
What type of pre-implantation genetic testing does Bourn Hall offer?
Bourn Hall provides pre-implantation genetic testing for:
- Monogenic diseases (PGTM)
- Structural chromosomal rearrangements (PGT-SR)
- Aneuploidy screening (PGT-A)
PGTM:
PGTM is recommended where there is a known genetic condition within families or if a couple have previously had an affected child.
PGT-A:
PGT-A involves screening embryos for basic chromosome abnormalities such as Down Syndrome. PGT-A can also be used to identify the gender of an embryo prior to implantation.
PGT-SR:
PGT-SR is recommended when one of the parents is a carrier of structural chromosomal rearrangements. These are changes from the normal size or arrangement of chromosomes. Chromosomes are the structures which hold genetic material.
Genetic Testing Frequently Asked Questions
Genetic testing in fertility treatment involves analysing DNA to identify inherited conditions or chromosomal abnormalities that may affect fertility, pregnancy outcomes, or the health of a future baby.
Genetic testing can help identify potential risks early, guide treatment decisions, reduce the chance of miscarriage, and improve the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy, particularly for couples undergoing IVF.
Genetic testing may be recommended if you have a family history of genetic conditions, have experienced recurrent miscarriages or failed IVF cycles, are over 35, or wish to reduce the risk of inherited disorders.
Common options include carrier screening (before pregnancy), preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) during IVF, and prenatal genetic testing once pregnancy is confirmed.
Carrier screening checks whether one or both partners carry genes for inherited conditions such as thalassaemia or cystic fibrosis, even if neither partner shows symptoms.
PGT is performed during IVF to assess embryos for chromosomal abnormalities or specific genetic conditions before embryo transfer, helping identify embryos with the best chance of developing into a healthy pregnancy.
For selected patients, genetic testing may reduce the risk of miscarriage and failed implantation by identifying chromosomally healthy embryos. Overall success still depends on factors such as age, egg quality, and uterine health.
Yes. Genetic testing used in fertility treatment is well established and considered safe when performed by experienced specialists and laboratories. Your doctor will explain any potential limitations or considerations.
Most tests require a simple blood or saliva sample from one or both partners. In IVF cycles, a small number of cells may be biopsied from embryos in the laboratory for analysis.
Timelines vary depending on the type of test, but results are usually available within days to a few weeks. Your fertility specialist will discuss expected timelines with you.
At Bourn Hall UAE, genetic testing is integrated into personalised fertility care. Our experienced fertility specialists and embryologists work closely with Mediclinic genetic laboratories to ensure accurate testing and clear guidance based on your results.
No test can guarantee a specific outcome, but genetic testing helps reduce known risks and supports informed decision-making, giving couples greater confidence throughout their fertility journey.
Want to know more about our laboratory, Mediclinic precise? Click the link below
