Gender Selection in IVF with PGD
Gender selection is the process of choosing the gender of the baby before pregnancy. In IVF with PGD, gender selection is achieved by examining the embryos’ chromosomes before they are implanted into the uterus. The main reason for gender selection is often medical, to avoid passing on gender-linked genetic disorders, though some couples may wish to select the gender for personal or family reasons.
How Gender Selection Works with PGD
- IVF and Embryo Creation:
- As part of IVF, the woman undergoes ovarian stimulation to produce multiple eggs, which are then fertilized in the laboratory with sperm from the partner or a sperm donor.
- The resulting embryos are cultured for several days and then biopsied for PGD testing, which involves taking a few cells from the outer layer of each embryo to analyze their genetic material.
- Genetic Analysis:
- After the biopsy, the embryos are tested in a genetic lab to screen for various conditions, including chromosomal abnormalities (such as Down syndrome) and genetic disorders.
- When it comes to gender selection, the lab will look at the X and Y chromosomes in the embryos. Female embryos will have two X chromosomes (XX), while male embryos will have one X and one Y chromosome (XY).
- Based on the chromosomal makeup, the embryos are identified as either female (XX) or male (XY).
- Embryo Selection for Gender:
- Once the embryos are genetically tested, the best quality embryos (either male or female, depending on the couple’s preference) are selected for transfer.
- In some cases, embryos of both genders may be available, and the couple can choose the desired gender for transfer. If both male and female embryos are healthy, the couple may decide to implant one or both embryos, depending on their goals and the clinic’s protocols.
- Embryo Transfer:
- After gender selection, the chosen embryo(s) are then transferred into the woman’s uterus through the standard IVF embryo transfer procedure. This is a quick and non-invasive process.
- Pregnancy Test:
- After the embryo transfer, a pregnancy test is performed around 10-14 days later to check if implantation was successful and if the woman is pregnant with the selected gender embryo.
Why Couples Choose Gender Selection
- Avoiding Gender-Linked Genetic Diseases:
- One of the primary reasons for gender selection is to avoid gender-linked genetic diseases such as Hemophilia or Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, which are X-linked conditions that affect boys but not girls. If a couple is a carrier of one of these conditions, they may choose to implant only female embryos (XX) to avoid passing on the disease to a male child.
- Similarly, gender selection may be used for conditions like X-linked intellectual disabilities or color blindness, which also predominantly affect males.
- Family Balancing:
- Some couples may wish to balance their family by selecting a child of a particular gender, especially if they already have multiple children of one gender and would like to have a child of the opposite gender.
- Family balancing is often chosen for personal reasons rather than medical ones.
- Gender Preference:
- In some countries, gender selection is allowed for personal or social reasons, where couples prefer a certain gender due to cultural, societal, or familial expectations. However, it’s important to note that many countries, including some within Europe, have strict regulations that only allow gender selection for medical reasons (such as avoiding gender-linked diseases).
Why Choose IVF with PGD and Gender Selection in Cyprus?
- Expert Clinics: Cyprus is home to several leading fertility clinics that specialize in IVF with PGD and gender selection. These clinics have highly trained doctors and genetic counselors who can guide patients through the process of both genetic screening and gender selection.
- Affordable Treatment: IVF with PGD, including gender selection, tends to be more affordable in Cyprus compared to many other Western countries like the UK or the US, making it an attractive destination for international patients.
- Regulated and Ethical Practice: Cyprus has a well-regulated system for fertility treatments, and IVF with PGD and gender selection is performed ethically and with the patient’s best interests in mind. This ensures transparency, patient safety, and a high level of care.
- High Success Rates: Many fertility clinics in Cyprus report high success rates for IVF treatments, including those involving PGD and gender selection, due to the use of advanced genetic testing, embryo culture, and careful monitoring throughout the process.
- Comprehensive Care for International Patients: Cyprus is a popular destination for medical tourism, and clinics in Cyprus offer comprehensive services, including assistance with travel, accommodation, and language support, making it a convenient choice for patients from around the world.
Cost of IVF with PGD and Gender Selection in Cyprus
- The cost of IVF with PGD and gender selection typically ranges between €6,000 and €9,000 per cycle in Cyprus. This price includes:
- Ovarian stimulation and monitoring
- Egg retrieval and fertilization
- PGD testing, including gender screening
- Embryo culture and selection
- Embryo transfer
- Additional costs may apply if you require ICSI, embryo freezing, or further genetic testing. It’s always a good idea to ask for a detailed cost breakdown from the clinic.