Decades have passed since Louise Joy Brown was the first baby born through in vitro fertilization (IVF). Though the technology’s advanced since that first IVF birth in 1978, understanding of who IVF can help and what it achieves has lagged behind.
Another form of cell division that can cause genetic abnormalities is called mitosis. Mitosis is a term used to describe the division of all cells, excluding the egg and the sperm. Whereas meiosis is the division that begins before and during fertilization, mitosis occurs after fertilization. Mitosis creates an exact copy of a pair of chromosomes, and divides them in half, over and over again, until an entire fetus is created. If an error occurs during cell division in mitosis, chromosomes may not split equally. Like meiosis, this can create a pair with a missing chromosome (monosomy), or an extra chromosome (trisomy).
Another lesser risk factor for the development of chromosomal abnormalities is the way in which a woman processes folic acid. While this risk factor is still being explored, new research suggests that women who have difficulty processing folic acid may be predisposed to having a child with chromosomal abnormalities. This risk can be easily reduced with the consumption of prenatal vitals during pregnancy.
Preimplantation Genetic Screening is typically used to diagnose infertility related to advanced maternal age (over 35), recurrent miscarriages, gender selection, multiple unsuccessful IVF courses, and poor ovarian function in younger women.
Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis is typically used for couples who currently have or are carriers of genetic diseases. PGD can identify and differentiate between healthy embryos and carrier embryos. Identifying healthy embryos can help couples from passing chromosomal abnormalities to their children. Couples can expect to wait approximately 7-10 days to find out the results of these tests.
PGD involves screening for specific genetic diseases, like the BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 genes which can lead to breast cancer. Other commonly screened diseases are Cystic Fibrosis and Muscular Dystrophy. PGD is the best choice for a couple who knows they are carriers of a genetic disease, and are looking to differentiate between healthy and unhealthy embryos before implantation.
It is important to note that the rate of false-positives and false-negatives are relatively low for most commonly used genetic tests, but your physician should inform you of the rates related to each test performed.
Why should I choose OC Fertility for my fertility needs?
At OC Fertility, we hold ourselves to incredibly high standards. We are committed to providing the highest quality, client-centered care, while making sure you feel comfortable and have the information to make the best decisions for you and your family.
We believe in open communication with our clients and make sure that all of your questions are answered to your satisfaction. We create individualized treatment plans, tailored to each client, and ensure that you understand all of the costs and commitments involved before you begin your treatment.
We also have our own state-of-the-art IVF center, so all of your needs can be met within our facilities. Our goal is to prepare patients for the challenging, yet rewarding fertility journey to grow their family, and to support you every step of the way.
How do I contact you?
Please give us a call to make an appointment at (949) 706-2229. Our experienced team of board-certified physicians would be happy to help you on your fertility journey.
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