PGT and Its Role in Preventing Recurrent Miscarriages

Recurrent miscarriages, often defined as having two or more / three or more consecutive pregnancy losses, are a heart-wrenching experience for many couples. The emotional and physical toll of repeated miscarriages can be overwhelming, leading many to seek advanced medical solutions to address this challenging issue. One such solution that has emerged as a promising option is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT). 

This comprehensive blog will explore the role of PGT in preventing recurrent miscarriages, detailing how it works, its benefits, and why it might be a vital part of your fertility treatment plan.

Understanding Recurrent Miscarriages

Recurrent miscarriages can arise from a variety of underlying causes, including:

• Chromosomal Abnormalities: One of the most common causes of miscarriage, chromosomal abnormalities occur when embryos have an incorrect number of chromosomes or structural defects in their chromosomes. These abnormalities often result from errors during cell division and can lead to failed implantation or early pregnancy loss.

   

• Anatomical Issues: Structural problems in the uterus, such as fibroids, polyps, or a septum, can interfere with embryo implantation and increase the risk of miscarriage.

   

• Hormonal Imbalances: Disorders such as thyroid problems or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can affect the hormonal environment necessary for sustaining a pregnancy.

   

• Genetic Factors: Both partners’ genetic makeup can contribute to recurrent miscarriages, particularly if one or both carry genetic mutations or abnormalities that affect embryo development.

   

• Blood clotting disorders : medically known as thromobophilias are a cause of recurrent miscarriages in 1-5 % of patients . These may be hereditary or acquired later. These diseases affects implantation & placental function. Usually leading to miscarriage a little late in pregnancy.

   

• Auto immune disorders : Accepting embryos at the level of uterus requires “ immune tolerance “ . – ability to accept foreign genes ( coming from fathers). Autoimmunity means body’s immune system acts against own cells. This is a proposed factor in many diseases like diabetes , thyroid dysfunction etc. These reasons may cause miscarriages.

What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)?

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is an advanced technique used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization (IVF) to screen embryos for genetic abnormalities before implantation. The goal of PGT is to identify and select embryos that are free from known genetic issues, thereby reducing the risk of miscarriage and improving the chances of a successful pregnancy.

PGT encompasses several types of tests:

• PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy): This test screens embryos for an abnormal number of chromosomes. Chromosomal abnormalities, such as trisomy (an extra chromosome) or monosomy (a missing chromosome), can lead to miscarriage or birth defects. PGT-A helps identify embryos with the correct number of chromosomes, increasing the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.
• PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders): This focuses on specific genetic mutations known to cause inherited disorders, such as cystic fibrosis or sickle cell disease. By screening embryos for these disorders, PGT-M helps ensure that embryos are free from severe genetic conditions that could lead to miscarriage or severe health issues in the child.
• PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements): This test identifies structural abnormalities in chromosomes, such as translocations or inversions. These structural changes can disrupt embryo development and lead to recurrent miscarriages. PGT-SR helps select embryos without these structural abnormalities.

How Does PGT Work?

The PGT process involves several steps:

• Ovarian Stimulation and Egg Retrieval: Fertility medications are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Once the eggs are mature, they are retrieved through a minor surgical procedure.

   

• Fertilization and Embryo Culture: The retrieved eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory setting. The resulting embryos are cultured for several days, typically until they reach the blastocyst stage (day 5 or 6).

   

• Embryo Biopsy: A small number of cells are carefully removed from each embryo for genetic analysis. This biopsy is performed while the embryo is still in the laboratory.

   

• Genetic Testing: The biopsied cells are analyzed for genetic abnormalities. This analysis helps identify embryos with the correct chromosomal number or specific genetic conditions.

   

• Embryo Selection: Based on the genetic results, embryos that are free of abnormalities are selected for transfer into the uterus. Embryos with identified issues are discarded.

   

• Embryo Transfer: The selected embryos are transferred into the uterus, aiming for successful implantation and pregnancy.

The Impact of PGT on Recurrent Miscarriages

PGT offers several benefits for couples dealing with recurrent miscarriages:

• Enhanced Success Rates: By identifying and selecting genetically healthy embryos, PGT increases the chances of implantation and reduces the likelihood of miscarriage.

   

• Reduced Emotional and Financial Burden: Successful embryo transfer and pregnancy reduce the emotional and financial stress associated with multiple miscarriages and failed IVF cycles.

   

• Tailored Treatment: PGT provides valuable information about genetic issues that may be contributing to recurrent miscarriages, allowing for a more personalized approach to treatment and care.

   

• Increased Confidence: Knowing that embryos have been screened for genetic abnormalities can provide reassurance and confidence in the IVF process, leading to a more positive experience.

Conclusion

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a powerful tool in the fight against recurrent miscarriages, offering hope and advanced solutions for couples struggling with repeated pregnancy losses. By screening embryos for genetic abnormalities and selecting the healthiest ones for transfer, PGT can significantly has the potential to improve the chances of a successful pregnancy and reduce the risk of miscarriage.

If you are experiencing recurrent miscarriages and are interested in exploring how PGT can enhance your fertility treatment, Bavishi Fertility Institute is here to support you. Our expert team is dedicated to providing personalized care and advanced solutions to help you achieve your dream of parenthood.

Contact Bavishi Fertility Institute today to schedule a consultation and discover how PGT can help prevent recurrent miscarriages and support your path to a successful pregnancy.

Author Bio

Dr. Parth Bavishi

Dr. Parth Bavishi, MD in Obstetrics and Gynecology, brings over 12 years of invaluable work experience to his role as Director of Bavishi Fertility Institute, leading a group of IVF clinics committed to helping couples realise their dreams of parenthood. 

Bavishi Fertility Institute is dedicated to provide customised and personalised treatments which are simple, safe , smart and successful. Bavishi Fertility Institute works with success and satisfaction for all at heart. Providing an ideal blend of professional treatment and personalised care.

Dr. Parth had special training in infertility at Bavishi fertility Institute, the Diamond Institute, USA, and the HART Institute, Japan.

Dr. Bavishi is a distinguished expert in his field. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr.Bavishi is the author of the acclaimed book, ‘Your Miracle in Making: A Couple’s Guide to Pregnancy,’ offering invaluable insights to couples navigating the complexities of fertility. He loves to empower patients to make the correct choice by education both online and offline .

His exceptional contributions have earned him the prestigious Rose of Paracelsus award from the European Medical Association. Dr.Parth has been an invited faculty at many national and international conferences.

FAQs

What are the common signs and symptoms of recurrent miscarriage?

Recurrent miscarriage typically involves two or more consecutive pregnancy losses. Common signs include spotting or bleeding during early pregnancy, along with cramping or lower abdominal pain.

How can recurrent miscarriages be diagnosed?

Diagnosis may involve a combination of medical history reviews, blood tests, genetic testing, and imaging studies such as ultrasounds or hysteroscopies to identify underlying causes.

What are the risks associated with PGT?

While PGT is generally safe, potential risks include possible damage to the embryos during biopsy and the emotional stress of undergoing genetic testing.

How long does the PGT process take?

The entire PGT process, from ovarian stimulation to embryo transfer, can take several weeks to a few months, depending on individual circumstances and the IVF clinic’s protocols. At Bavishi Fertility Institute we can arrange for accurate PGT-A report in one day thus enabling fast results and fresh embryo transfer or significant savings on freezing cost. Of course the decision to transfer fresh or frozen is taken based on individual patient.

Can PGT be used for couples with no known genetic disorders?

Yes, PGT can be beneficial for couples with recurrent miscarriages even if no specific genetic disorders have been identified, as it helps screen for chromosomal abnormalities that might not be apparent.

How successful is PGT in preventing recurrent miscarriages?

PGT significantly increases the chances of a successful pregnancy by selecting embryos without genetic abnormalities, but success rates can vary based on individual factors such as age and overall health.

Are there any alternative treatments to PGT for recurrent miscarriages?

Alternatives include lifestyle changes, hormone therapy, surgery for anatomical issues, and other fertility treatments. The choice depends on the underlying cause of the miscarriages.

Can PGT be performed for single embryos?

Yes, PGT can be performed on single embryos, though the process might be less cost-effective compared to analyzing multiple embryos simultaneously.

How do lifestyle factors influence the effectiveness of PGT?

Lifestyle factors such as diet, stress levels, and overall health can impact the effectiveness of IVF and PGT. Couples are advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle to improve outcomes.

What support is available for couples undergoing PGT?

Couples undergoing PGT can benefit from support such as counseling, support groups, and fertility specialists who can provide emotional and practical guidance throughout the process.