Polar body analysis (PBD)
Analysis of the egg: the polar bodies are by-products of the egg whose genetic composition allows conclusions to be drawn about the egg’s genetic material. The egg itself remains completely intact.
Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT).
High pregnancy rates possible even for women over 35: with PGT we identify genetically unremarkable embryos for transfer.
Why genetically unremarkable embryos are crucial
A key challenge for a successful pregnancy is identifying genetically unremarkable embryos. Unfortunately, as a woman gets older, genetic abnormalities in the eggs also increase – and with them, the likelihood of a successful pregnancy decreases.
The number of eggs with genetic abnormalities is higher than many would expect.
Eggs with chromosomal abnormalities
Age plays a central role.
approx. 50 %
of the eggs of 35-year-old women show chromosomal abnormalities
approx. 70 %
of the eggs of 40-year-old women are genetically abnormal
Even after fertilisation of the egg, genetic abnormalities can occur that prevent a successful pregnancy, or genetic abnormalities could be passed on.
By means of preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), the genetic material of the egg or the fertilised embryo can be analysed during an IVF treatment in order to select genetically unremarkable embryos for transfer.
Types of PGT
Three paths of genetic analysis.
Chromosome analysis (TEB)
Analysis of the fertilised embryo: a few individual cells of the trophectoderm are removed. These later develop into the placenta – the embryo remains intact.
Monogenic analysis
Analysis of a known genetic variant in the fertilised embryo. Sex selection or treatment of affected eggs is not possible.
Pregnant sooner
The advantages of preimplantation genetic testing.
With our analyses we detect genetic changes in the eggs or the fertilised embryos and, following a genetic information session, can select genetically unremarkable embryos by means of PGT.
Various international studies (study 1, study 2) have shown that preimplantation genetic testing can significantly improve the likelihood of becoming pregnant and giving birth to a healthy child. The Wunschbaby Institut Feichtinger, led by Priv.-Doz. DDr. Michael Feichtinger, was also able to demonstrate this in a study of its own.
In addition, preimplantation genetic testing offers a host of further advantages:
- The miscarriage rate decreases.
- The risk of multiple pregnancy is lower.
- The risk of later losing the pregnancy unintentionally through a prenatal procedure (amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling, etc.) decreases.
- Fewer terminations of pregnancy.
- It helps families with certain genetic predispositions that lead to an unfulfilled desire to have children.
- The consequences of a futile transfer due to exclusively genetically defective eggs can be avoided.
Indication
Chromosome analyses of the polar bodies (PBD) are recommended for the following patient groups:
- women from about the age of 38
- couples who have already been through several unsuccessful IVF attempts
- in cases of recurrent miscarriage (abortus habitualis)
- in cases of an abnormal karyotype in the woman (karyotype testing of both partners is essential before PGT)
Under the Austrian Reproductive Medicine Act, the following indications permit genetic testing of the fertilised embryo:
- couples who have already been through more than three unsuccessful IVF attempts
- in cases of recurrent miscarriage (at least three documented miscarriages or stillbirths)
- in cases of an abnormal karyotype in one partner associated with a high risk of miscarriage, stillbirth or a serious developmental disorder in the child (pursuant to Section 2a of the Reproductive Medicine Act)
- a known genetic variant that may lead to a serious hereditary disease in the child (pursuant to Section 2a of the Reproductive Medicine Act)
In every case, the basic prerequisite for PGT at our institute is a chromosome analysis (karyotype) of both partners. In a genetic counselling and information session, we will be happy to discuss all your questions about preimplantation genetic testing with you at your own pace and to explore together the best approach for you.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about PGT.
What is preimplantation genetic testing (PGT)?
Preimplantation genetic testing examines eggs or embryos for genetic changes before the embryo transfer. This allows genetically normal embryos to be selected for transfer – the analyses are performed in our in-house WIF genetics laboratory.
Which PGT methods are available?
We offer three approaches: polar body analysis (PKD) on the egg, chromosome analysis on the trophectoderm (TEB) of the fertilised embryo, and monogenetic analysis for a known genetic change.
Is the embryo damaged during PGT?
No. Polar body analysis only examines the polar bodies – by-products of the egg – so the egg itself remains intact. For the chromosome analysis, only a few cells of the trophectoderm are taken, which later develop into the placenta – the embryo also remains intact.
Who is PGT suitable for?
Typical reasons are recurrent miscarriage, several unsuccessful IVF attempts, known hereditary diseases in the family or a higher age of the woman – age plays a central role in the genetic quality of the eggs.
Is PGT permitted in Austria?
Yes, under certain legal conditions. Whether preimplantation genetic testing is an option in your case is something we clarify together in the genetic counselling session.
Can PGT determine the sex of the child?
No, sex selection is not possible as part of PGT at our institute.
Why is the in-house genetics laboratory an advantage?
Because the analyses are not sent to external laboratories: results are available quickly and flow directly into your treatment plan. Austria's first successful PGT was performed at the WIF in 2005.
Your next step
Let’s talk.
Are you interested in preimplantation genetic testing? Book a free consultation – by phone on +43 1 877 77 75 or online.
Or call us: +43 1 877 77 75