What is infertility?
Genetic problems
It is now possible to screen embryos for genetic problems, but we are unable to screen individuals or couples as part of an initial fertility investigation. The technique of preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) can be performed successfully in couples who are known to be at risk of passing on an inherited genetic disease to their children; however, this is a complex and demanding treatment, and appropriate only for couples known to be carriers of a genetic mutation.
It's fair to say that PGD has revolutionised the prospects of parenthood for couples who are known carriers of, for example, the cystic fibrosis gene mutation. By identifying and transferring those embyros without the mutation, carrier couples can be reassured that their baby will not be affected.
However, the application of the same technology as a screening measure (preimplantation genetic screening, PGS) requires a number of embyros created by IVF or ICSI and mainly screens for chromosomal abnormalities such as Down's syndrome.
The London Women's Clinic Wales currently offers embryo screening through PGD and CGH.
