Urgent Need for Genetic Screening in IVF

As World IVF Day approaches on July 25, 2023, fertility experts in Kolkata emphasize the critical role of integrating genetic screening into fertility care to enhance success rates of IVF treatments and reduce instances of failed pregnancies. The advancements in genetic testing, particularly Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), have emerged as pivotal tools in selecting embryos free from genetic abnormalities before implantation, thereby increasing the likelihood of healthy pregnancies.

Key points include:

• Significant Date: World IVF Day is celebrated on July 25 annually.
• Experts' Concern: Fertility specialists argue for incorporating genetic screening into standard fertility practices.
• Expert Voices: Emili Banerjee, a genetic counselor at Genome – The Fertility Centre, advocates for PGT as beneficial not only for those facing infertility but also for individuals with recurrent pregnancy failures.
• Informational Session: Genome conducted a session titled “Decode Infertility with Genetics” on July 23, where advancements in genetic screening were discussed, highlighting their importance in improving IVF success rates and dealing with unexplained infertility.
• Genetic Issues: Many couples with a family history of inherited disorders may remain unaware of potential genetic conditions that can lead to unsuccessful pregnancies. The session made it clear that there are options available beyond sperm or egg donation, adoption, or avoidance of childbearing.
• Medical Insight: Dr. Sanjay Das Gupta, Director of Clinical Service at Genome, stated that genetic screening can identify potential inherited disorders, such as Thalassemia and Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), before pregnancy, allowing couples to make informed reproductive decisions.
• Underlying Issues: The presence of genetic factors can sometimes lead to infertility even when both partners are presumed healthy. This makes the case for genetic assessments in fertility discussions more pressing.
• Integrated Approach: A collaborative, team-based methodology is advocated to optimize the results of assisted reproductive technologies.

The focus on genetic screening in fertility care is deemed essential for empowering patients with knowledge about their reproductive health and for ensuring better outcomes in assisted reproductive technologies. The discussion highlights a shift towards more personalized approaches in fertility treatments, mitigating risks associated with genetic disorders, and reaffirming the necessity for integrating PGT as a standard procedure in IVF practices.

In summary, the ongoing dialogue among fertility experts regarding genetic screening aims to reshape infertility treatment, making it more effective and informed, ultimately leading to healthier future generations.