CCRM FERTILITY OF PHILADELPHIA
Preimplantation Genetic Testing in Philadelphia
At CCRM Fertility of Philadelphia, we offer preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to ensure you have the best chance of conceiving the healthiest baby possible. PGT is an advanced form of genetic testing that allows us to analyze embryos created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) before they are transferred to the uterus.
What is preimplantation genetic testing?
Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) involves removing several cells from each embryo and analyzing the chromosomes for abnormalities, which could result in failed implantation, miscarriage, or genetic conditions or diseases. PGT is performed on embryos created through IVF and takes place before the embryos are transferred to the uterus.
Our preimplantation genetic testing process
Our team of fertility specialists at CCRM Fertility of Philadelphia will guide you through the entire preimplantation genetic testing process. First, we will perform an IVF cycle to retrieve your eggs and fertilize them with sperm in our laboratory. After the embryos have been cultured to the blastocyst stage, our embryologists will extract a few cells from each embryo and analyze them using state-of-the-art genetic testing technology. Based on the results of this analysis, we will help you select the healthiest embryo to transfer to the uterus, giving you the best chance of success.
Signs preimplantation genetic testing is right for you
There are several reasons why someone might consider preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). Ideal candidates for PGT include:
- Patients with a known history of genetic disorders
- Patients who have had recurrent pregnancy loss or failed IVF cycles
- Patients who are carriers of certain genetic mutations
- Patients using eggs from someone older than 35 because the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in embryos increases with age
- Patients who wish to use IVF for family balancing or sex selection purposes
Our team will conduct a thorough evaluation of your medical history and you will undergo comprehensive fertility testing to find out if PGT is right for you.
CCRM Philadelphia IVF timeline with PGT: Week-by-week breakdown
This IVF timeline with PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Testing) outlines the step-by-step process of in vitro fertilization, including genetic testing of embryos before implantation. CCRM Fertility of Philadelphia’s approach helps select chromosomally normal embryos, increasing the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
The full IVF timeline with PGT takes approximately 10-12 weeks, not including pre-treatment preparation.
Estimated timeline overview:
| IVF Stage | Estimated Duration |
| Initial Consultation & Pre-Treatment | 2-4 weeks |
| Ovarian Stimulation | 10-14 days |
| Egg Retrieval & Fertilization | 1-2 days |
| Embryo Culture & PGT Biopsy | 5-7 days |
| PGT Testing & Embryo Freezing | 7-14 days |
| Endometrial Preparation | 2-4 weeks |
| Frozen Embryo Transfer | 1 day |
| Pregnancy Test | 10-12 days after transfer |
Step 1: Initial consultation & pre-treatment testing (week 1-4)
- Meet with a fertility specialist to discuss medical history and treatment options
- Perform essential fertility tests:
- Ovarian reserve assessment (AMH, FSH, Estradiol).
- Ultrasound scan for antral follicle count
- Semen analysis (for male partner)
- Genetic carrier screening (if necessary)
- Start birth control pills (optional) to regulate the cycle before IVF
Step 2: Ovarian stimulation (week 5-7)
- Duration: 10-14 days
- Begin hormone injections (FSH, LH) to stimulate egg production
- Regular ultrasounds & blood tests to monitor follicle growth
- Once follicles reach 18-22mm, administer the trigger shot (hCG/Lupron) to mature eggs
Step 3: Egg retrieval procedure (week 7-8)
- 36 hours after trigger shot, eggs are retrieved under sedation
- Same-day sperm collection for fertilization via ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) or standard IVF
- Rest for 1-2 days after the procedure
Step 4: Fertilization & embryo culture (week 8)
- Eggs are fertilized in the lab and monitored for 5-7 days until they reach the blastocyst stage
- Embryologists evaluate embryo quality for transfer or freezing
Step 5: PGT biopsy & embryo freezing (week 8-9)
- On Day 5, 6, or 7, embryos undergo PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Testing) for genetic screening
- Embryo freezing (vitrification) occurs while waiting for PGT results (typically 7-14 days)
Step 6: Preparing for frozen embryo transfer (week 10-12)
- Begin uterine preparation with estrogen & progesterone to optimize the endometrial lining.
- Monitor lining thickness via ultrasound scans
- Once the lining reaches ≥7mm, schedule embryo transfer
Step 7: Frozen embryo transfer procedure (week 12-13)
- Thaw and transfer a PGT-tested embryo into the uterus using a thin catheter
- The procedure is quick and painless, performed by a doctor under ultrasound guidance
- Continue taking progesterone support medications after the transfer
Step 8: Pregnancy test & early monitoring (week 14)
- 10-12 days after embryo transfer, take a blood test (β-hCG) to confirm pregnancy
- If positive, continue early pregnancy monitoring via ultrasounds at 6-7 weeks to check for a fetal heartbeat and growth
The cost of preimplantation genetic testing in Philadelphia, PA
PGT for aneuploidy (PGT-A)
PGT-A analyzes embryos for chromosomal abnormalities, which can cause certain genetic disorders, result in miscarriage, or cause failed implantation.
PGT-A is typically recommended for patients who have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss/miscarriages, have a history of failed IVF cycles, as well as for women who are older than 35 and at increased risk for chromosomal abnormalities in embryos.
Preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders (PGT-M Testing)
PGT-M is used to analyze embryos for specific genetic mutations that can cause certain inherited diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs disease, muscular dystrophy, sickle cell anemia, and hereditary cancers. This type of testing is typically recommended for individuals or couples who are carriers of known genetic mutations.
Preimplantation genetic testing for chromosomal structural rearrangements (PGT-SR Testing)
PGT-SR testing is used to analyze embryos for structural chromosomal rearrangements, which can cause certain genetic disorders or lead to miscarriage. The two common types of chromosomal rearrangements CCRM Fertility of Philadelphia can help with are:
- Reciprocal translocations: Segments of two different chromosomes break off and change places
- Inversions: A segment of a chromosome has reversed orientation
PGT-SR testing is recommended for patients who are carriers of a balanced translocation or inversion and wish to conceive a baby.
CCRM Fertility of Philadelphia
822 Pine St, Suite 4B
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: (215) 829-8110
Fax: (215) 829-8119
Hours
Regular Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00am – 4:30pm