Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis

Improve your chances of achieving a full-term pregnancy and a healthy baby.

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What is Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)?

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) is the combination of IVF-ICSI and a complete analysis of the chromosomes of the embryos obtained, in order to select those that are free of genetic anomalies and have a greater potential for evolutionary pregnancy. In this way, we reduce the risk of miscarriage and implantation failure, and avoid genetic diseases in the newborn.

When is PGD testing recommended?

It is recommended for any woman or couple at risk of transmitting a genetic disease or condition, especially those of the following:

Women over 39 years old.

Women who have suffered repeated miscarriages.

Carriers of sex-linked genetic diseases or defects in a single gene.

Persons with chromosomal alterations (with abnormal karyotypes).

People with previous children who have a hereditary disease.

Men with severely altered seminograms.

Benefits of PGD testing

Safety

It reduces the chance of conceiving a baby with a genetic factor leading to rare diseases or chromosomal disorders.

Peace of mind

Avoid the need for a termination of pregnancy if the PGD testing shows any alterations.

Health

Increases the likelihood of successful implantation and the development of a healthy pregnancy.

Assurance

Limits the risk of miscarriage by transferring higher quality embryos.

Success rate

It has a high pregnancy rate by optimising embryo selection to the maximum.

Savings

Reduces stress and long-term costs by reducing the need for multiple treatment cycles.

Step-by-step guide to PGD testing

The patient undergoes hormone therapy to produce as many mature eggs as possible, according to the results of her diagnostic tests and medical history.

The duration of stimulation ranges from 8 to 11 days.

During stimulation, we monitor follicular development by means of vaginal ultrasound scans and hormone blood tests. When the follicles reach the right size, ovulation is induced by a subcutaneous hormone injection.

3 to 4 controls are required during the stimulation.

We retrieve the oocytes in the operating room in a procedure that lasts 5 to 15 minutes, with sedation and painkillers. Each follicle is punctured to extract the liquid that will be examined by biologists to determine the presence of oocytes and whether they will be able to be used in the treatment. If a partner’s sperm is used, the man must leave the sample on the day of the retrieval.

36 hours after ovulation induction.

We carry out a morphological selection of the best spermatozoa in the laboratory and microinject one into each mature egg. Our biologists monitor the embryos for the next 5 to 6 days, using state-of-the-art incubators, to cultivate as many embryos as possible to blastocyst stage.

Blastocysts have a higher implantation capacity.

Once embryos reach blastocyst stage, they are biopsied and vitrified. The cells obtained are subjected to a genetic diagnosis study using SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphism) in the NGS analysis (Next Generation Sequencing), which is more precise compared to the tradicional PGD testing.

PGD results are usually available within 10 days.

Using Artificial Intelligence, the best embryo available is selected and loaded into a fine catheter and introduced into the uterus.

The embryo transfer takes approximately 15 minutes.

We vitrify and preserve the embryos that have not been transferred so that they can be used in subsequent transfers if necessary, or when you wish to seek a new pregnancy.

2 years of storage is included in the treatment.

12 days after the embryo transfer, a blood test (Beta-hCG) is carried out to check for pregnancy. If the result is positive, the patient should go for an early pregnancy ultrasound scan to confirm everything is correct. Two weeks later, the patient should go for another follow-up ultrasound scan.

Approximately 12 days after the embryo transfer.

Techniques included


Genetic compatibility study
We perform a DNA test on both parents (or donors, if applicable) to detect whether they share the same mutations that could be passed on to the baby. Although most people are healthy carriers without knowing it, when there is a match in the same genetic alteration, the risk of inherited disease increases. This test makes it possible to identity more then 16,000 potential mutations before starting treatment and, if necessary, adapt the reproductive strategy to reduce risks. It is an essential test that provides safety and peace of mind from the very beginning of the process.
Matcher System
An advanced electronic traceability system that ensures the correct identification of all biological samples at every stage of treatment. Using barcodes and electronic verification, the correspondence between the patients and the samples is automatically verified before any procedure. This system provides complete control and added peace of mind for the medical team.
Sperm selection techniques
Sperm quality is a determining factor in the success of treatment. For this reason, we apply the most advanced sperm selection techniques that make it possible to identify and isolate the sperm with the highest fertilisation chances. Using techniques such as MACS, Zimot or FertileChip, we aim to remove those sperm with DNA fragmentation or lower viability, selecting the most suitable in terms of their mobility, morphology and genetic integrity.
Sperm Cryopreservation
A process that allows sperm to be preserved when the male partner is unable to provide a sample on the day of fertilisation. A semen sample is collected and treated with cryoprotectants to prevent cellular damage during cooling. The sample is then frozen at very low temperatures (-196ºC) using liquid nitrogen and is recorded and stored in our sperm bank. From that point on, it can be used whenever the patients require it for their treatment, without compromising its quality over time.
In Vitro Maturation and freezing of eggs
During the egg retrieval, it is common to obtain both mature and immature eggs. Rather than discarding them, we make the most of their potential through the use of in vitro maturation (IVM). This technique consists of culturing immature eggs under controlled laboratory conditions to support their development until they reach maturity. Those that successfully mature can then be vitrified and used in the future, thereby increasing the patient’s reproductive opportunities without the need for additional stimulation. These eggs have a lower developmental potential and are therefore not included in the minimum number required to proceed with ICSI. However, they represent a valuable additional reserve that can sometimes make a significant difference in the final outcome of the treatment.
Oocyte activation using calcium ionophores
Following ICSI, the oocyte is exposed to a solution that promotes its activation through a controlled calcium influx, enhancing the initiation of fertilization and subsequent embryo development. This technique may improve fertilization rates in cases of previous fertilization failure or severe male factor infertility.
Blastocyst Culture
At IGIN, we systematically culture all embryos to the blastocyst stage (day 5-6), a more advanced phase of development in which the embryo reaches greater cellular complexity and its quality can be assessed more accurately. This process makes it possible to identify the embryos with the highest developmental capacity and implantation potential. In addition, it improves synchronization with the endometrium, creating optimal conditions for embryo transfer and enhancing the chances of pregnancy.
Embryoscope+ with Time-Lapse technology
Embryoscope+ is a state-of-the-art incubator that provides the best possible environment for embryo development up to the blastocyst stage. It maintains optimal temperature, humidity and gas conditions to support embryo growth through to the blastocyst stage.
It incorporates time-lapse technology, allowing continuous image capture and monitoring without the need to remove the embryos from the incubator, thereby avoiding any disruption to their environment.
It incorporates time-lapse technology, allowing continuous image capture and monitoring without the need to remove the embryos from the incubator, thereby avoiding any disruption to their environment.
Artificial Intelligence: IDAScore and KIDScore
We apply advanced artificial intelligence systems that take embryo selection to a new level. IDAScore (Intelligent Data Analysis) and KIDScore (Known Implantation Data) are algorithms based on morphokinetic analysis that study the development of each embryo and compare it with millions of data points worldwide. These systems assess not only morphology, but also the timing and patterns of cell division, identifying the embryos with the highest implantation potential. This information enables our embryologists to make more objective and precise decisions, increasing the likelihood of success with each transfer.
Single Embryo Transfer (SET)
Thanks to advanced embryo selection and blastocyst culture, we are able to perform Single Embryo Transfer (SET), a strategy aimed at achieving pregnancy while minimizing the risks associated with multiple gestation. This approach enhances safety for both the mother and the baby by reducing complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
Personalized embryo transfer
The transfer can be carried out using a fresh or frozen cycle, adapting to the characteristics and needs of each patient. This allows the optimal timing for implantation to be chosen, either by taking advantage of the patient’s natural hormonal cycle or through controlled endometrial preparation. Adapting the strategy instead of following a standard protocol significantly improves the chances of success and reduces the risk of implantation failure, offering a truly personalized approach.
Cryopreservation and storage of vitrified embryos and eggs
Vitrification is an ultra-rapid cryopreservation technique that prevents the formation of ice crystals, protecting the cellular structure of embryos and eggs during storage. This allows them to be kept in optimal conditions for long periods, facilitating their use in future attempts or to expand the family later on.
At IGIN, you will have two years of storage included for the vitrified eggs and embryos obtained during your treatment. You can use them whenever you decide.
In addition, the storage of embryos and gametes will always depend on your decision to continue preserving them. Unlike there clinics, no costs are incurred and you will not pay any fees if you choose not to continue with storage.
Luteal phase hormonal monitoring and thyroid function
Progesterone testing allows us to assess the progression of the luteal phase and the adequate preparation of the endometrium for implantation. In addition, we perform blood tests to ensure optimal hormonal support levels.
The evaluation of TSH (thyroid function) in patients with a history of thyroid abnormalities complements this assessment, as proper thyroid balance is essential for ovulation, endometrial receptivity and the early development of pregnancy.
Endometrial Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
It is an innovative technique that uses the patients own biological resources to improve endometrial receptivity in certain situations. From a blood sample, a platelet concentrate rich in growth factors is obtained. These factors help stimulate the regeneration and repair of the endometrial tissue. It is a simple and quick procedure, particularly beneficial for patients with a thin endometrium, low receptivity or previous implantation failures associated with those over 45 years old, whenever the medical team consider it may be beneficial.
Specialised transfer media
In cases of implantation failure and recurrent miscarriage, during embryo transfer we use next-generation media designed to mimic the natural conditions of the uterus and support implantation. These media create an optimal environment during the transition of the embryo from the laboratory to the uterus, helping maintain its stability and viability during this particularly critical phase.
At IGIN we use EmbryoGlue, a hyaluronan enriched medium. Its composition enhances the interaction between the embryo and the endometrium, facilitating adhesion and increasing the chances of implantation.
We also use cytokine-enriched media, which contain proteins that act as cellular messengers and regulate communication between the embryo and the endometrium, as essential process for implantation and for creating a more receptive environment.
Early pregnancy scan monitoring
After pregnancy is confirmed, we monitor two ultrasound pregnancy scans to verify the correct progression of the pregnancy during its first weeks. This follow-up allows us to confirm implantation, assess embryonic development, and support the patient during a key stage of the process, ensuring continuity of care from the same clinic and providing reassurance from the very first positive result.
«Pregnancy loss» Cariotest
Up to 70% of early pregnancy losses are related to chromosomal abnormalities. Knowing the cause provides answers during a particularly difficult time and allows for the assessment of recurrence risk, helping to guide the next steps in treatment. The Cariotest ´Pregnancy Loss’ is an advanced genetic test that analyzes fetal DNA from a maternal blood sample, without the need for invasive procedures. It allows us to obtain reliable information even in very early stages of pregnancy, assessing the risk of recurrence and helping to define the best strategy for future treatments.
Transfer of embryos and samples
When a patient choose to undergo treatment at IGIN, we include the safe and controlled transfer of embryos, eggs and sperm from the originating clinic, hospital or laboratory at no additional cost.
If the patient wishes to transfer their embryos and/or samples from IGIN to another center, we take care of preparing, processing and protecting the material for transport. We do not charge for this service. In addition, we can advise the patient on selecting the most appropriate transport company, which may involve an associated cost depending on the required service.

Success rate of PGD testing

By complementing the usual IVF-ICSI with PGD testing, we obtain embryos of proven quality and great evolutionary potential, which allow us to obtain above-average success rates. This is the reason for our high accumulated pregnancy rate per cycle with this treatment.

86%

PGD cost and financing

Our closed treatment package includes all of the techniques you may need to help achieve pregnancy. There may be the option to pay the total cost in instalments without any interest.

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis

8.755€

Achieve a full-term pregnancy and a healthy baby thanks to genetic analysis.

  • Case orientation consultation and cycle planning
  • Genetic compatibility study of 16,592 mutations (both parents)
  • Ultrasound and hormonal controls (unlimited)
  • Follicular puncture – aspiration
  • Laboratory procedures
  • IMT Matcher: for electronic identification and traceability of genetic samples
  • In Vitro Fertilization by ICSI
  • Sperm selection techniques: FertileChip, PICSI, MACS, Zymot, Microfluidics (if necessary)
  • Laser assisted hatching (if necessary)
  • Embryo culture (day 0 to 6) up to blastocyst stage using Embryoscope+ with time-lapse included (unlimited)
  • KIDScore / IDAScore (AI for embryonic selection)
  • IVM (In Vitro Maturation) of oocytes and their vitrification, including 2 years storage
  • Oocyte activation using calcium ionophores (if necessary)

  • P.G.D: embryo biopsy and Next Generation Sequence diagnosis with SNP technology: detection of alterations undetected by traditional PGD testing (unlimited)
  • Embryo transfer (1 or 2 embryos)
  • PRP Platelet Rich Plasma (if necessary)
  • Progesterone monitoring pre-/post-transfer
  • Specific transfer media (if necessary)
  • Vitrification of unused embryos (unlimited)
  • BHCG – pregnancy detection tests (unlimited)
  • Two gestational checks
  • Cryopreservation and storage of vitrified embryos for 2 years
  • Donor semen (vitrified samples) has an increase of €435
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We love hearing success stories like these

Our problem was really getting us down: I was able to fall pregnant but it always ended in miscarriage (up to five times). Thanks to IGIN we found the cause and with a PGD testing we got the baby we were looking for (named Tirso, after his grandfather).

María J.M. and Eduardo

I came to IGIN with a lot of baggage, and honestly, very little hope. Their amazing team gave me the encouragement and confidence I needed, and thanks to all their effort, I was rewarded with my little one. I will forever be thankful.

Vero and family

We have two cases of chromosomal alterations in our family and we didn’t want to take any risks. After PGD testing we got pregnant after 1 attempt and now have our healthy baby girl.

Estela

Your free consultation

It is normal that you have doubts and we want to solve them in a free reproductive consultation. In addition, we will carry out a fertility study free of charge and without obligation.

Book your free consultation

FAQs about Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis testing


What is Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)?
PGD is a technique used in fertility treatments to screen embryos for chromosomal abnormalities before transferring them to the uterus. This helps to select healthy embryos and reduce the risk of miscarriage and genetic diseases.
What kind of diseases can be detected with PGD?
PGD can detect a wide range of genetic diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs, sickle cell anaemia, Huntington’s disease, as well as chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, translocation, inversion, deletions and aneuploidy. Also sex-linked recessive diseases such as haemophilia, fragile X syndrome and most neuromuscular dystrophies, among many others.
How exactly is a PGD performed?
The technique consists of making a small laser hole in the embryos to extract a cell sample. Normal development is not compromised. The DNA is then extracted from the cell and analysed by a process known as polymerase chain reaction in the case of monogenic diseases, or with microarrays (NGS) in the case of numerical or structural chromosome diseases. Finally, the DNA sequence code is evaluated to determine whether the inheritance of the gene or chromosome under study is present or absent.
Are there any risks associated with it?
In medicine there is no such thing as zero risk, but in PGD the risks are minimal. It is very rare for the embryo to suffer even minimal damage during the biopsy, and with our advanced techniques and experienced staff, the risks are very low. Therefore, PGD is important to perform when medically indicated.
How long does it take to get PGD results?
PGD results are generally available in about ten days, allowing embryos to be transferred with the first post-puncture cycle (or frozen for future transfers).
How is the embryo to be transferred chosen?
Firstly, thanks to PGD, we can select those embryos that do not have any genetic condition. From these, our embryologists make a precise selection in which they evaluate factors such as the number of cells and their quality. To optimise this process at IGIN we incorporate world-leading technology: KIDSCore and IDASCore. Artificial Intelligence and morphokinetic algorithms analyse each of the embryos, contrasting them with information gathered from millions of embryos from all over the world and relating their development patterns with their implantation capacity. This helps the lab team to choose the most promising embryo in terms of evolutionary potential.
Can I ask for twins?
Years ago, several embryos were transferred because the individual chances of implantation were much lower. Thanks to technical advances we can now say that it is more successful to transfer just one embryo. Not only that, but it is also much safer for both mother and baby. Twin pregnancies are risky situations. The consensus in reproductive medicine rules out transferring more than one embryo at a time.
Does PGD require ovarian stimulation?
Yes, the process with PGD is the same as with IVF-ICSI. The patient is first evaluated to determine the most appropriate hormonal protocol. This may include ultrasound scans, hormone testing, and other studies to assess ovarian function and the overall health of the reproductive system. Once the personalised protocol is established, the patient begins to administer (usually at home) the hormone medication and is monitored by ultrasound and/or blood tests to control the response of her ovaries to the treatment and to achieve the appropriate follicular size. This phase lasts between 10 and 12 days.
Can I know the quality of the eggs before starting treatment?
The quality of the eggs cannot be determined beforehand by any technique (analytical or ultrasound). Eggs of varying quality are found in the ovary and it is during the fertilisation process that the individual quality of each egg is determined. It is, however, possible to orientate oneself according to certain parameters. The most important is age. And there are pathologies that can reduce the quality of eggs, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovarian syndrome. But they are only indicative and we will rarely be able to determine with certainty the quality of the oocytes before the treatment is carried out.
Can I know how many eggs I am going to obtain in the egg retrieval?
As with quality, the quantity of eggs in the puncture is not something we can know exactly, as there are many fluctuations between a woman’s cycles. There are indicators, such as the anti-mullerian hormone, which give us clues as to the possible quantity of eggs that can be found. But this is only an indication and it will not be until the procedure itself that we will know.
What is a blastocyst?
Blastocyst is the stage of the embryo where a complex cellular structure is formed; it is made up of an inner cell mass from which the embryo originates and a peripheral layer of cells that will form the future placenta. This structure can be seen on the 5th or 6th day of life of the embryos. It is at this stage that the embryo has the highest probability of implantation, which is why at IGIN we take all our embryos to blastocyst.
Can I travel, exercise or drink alcohol after the transfer?
There are no problems driving or boarding a plane after the embryo transfer. It is recommended to wait two days after the embryo transfer if you do any high-impact sports. Everyday physical activities can be carried out without any problem. Alcohol is not recommended.
Is it normal to experience spotting as the date of the pregnancy test (Beta) approaches?
It is common. Up to 80% of patients who undergo embryo transfer may have vaginal spotting that can even be confused with the onset of menstruation or embryo implantation. For this reason, vaginal bleeding at this time does not allow us to determine whether the pregnancy test will be positive or negative. You must continue taking all medication and follow the guidelines without varying the dosage until you have the results of the pregnancy test. In case of spotting, it is recommended not to have sexual intercourse and not to do high-intensity sports. Bed rest is not necessary.
Do I have to change my diet in any particular way during my treatment?
During reproduction and pregnancy treatments, try to eat a varied and balanced diet. Do not abuse carbohydrate-rich foods such as pasta, rice and bread. Nor is it recommended to eat highly processed products. Avoid raw foods and alcohol.
Is it possible to have sexual intercourse during treatment?
Yes, if the partner has to leave a semen sample at the clinic, we will inform you a few days beforehand so that you can observe the period of abstinence. The rest of the time you can have normal intercourse.
How long will I have to stay on the medication if I am pregnant?
Each patient has a personalised therapeutic plan that is tailored to their individual needs. This means that some medications may be stopped at week 12, for example, but others will be maintained throughout the entire pregnancy. Once discharged from the clinic, we send you a report by email explaining to you how long you will need to continue taking each medication.