Can IVF Inherit Diseases? How to carry out in vitro genetic screening?

• Make an appointment
• Consulting price
• Online consultation

Can IVF carry hereditary diseases?

IVF is a kind of baby developed by culturing the fertilized eggs in vitro through artificial insemination technology, and then transplanting healthy embryos into the mother's uterus. Although IVF technology can solve some infertility problems, the related genetic diseases have also attracted much attention.

First, IVF itself does not cause or increase the risk of genetic diseases. Hereditary diseases are caused by genetic defects carried by one or both parents. These defects may be pathogenic genes, chromosome dislocation or mutation. In essence, IVF transfers healthy embryos into the uterus to develop into babies, without increasing the risk of carrying genetic defects.

Secondly, IVF technology provides the possibility of screening genetic diseases. In the process of IVF, a series of genetic screening can be used to detect whether the embryo carries genes of certain genetic diseases. In the early stage of embryo cultivation, doctors can collect a small number of embryonic cells for gene analysis to determine whether there are genetic defects.

The genetic screening of IVF mainly includes the following methods:

1. Test tube baby gene testing

Test tube baby gene testing is to screen the risk of hereditary diseases by analyzing the DNA in embryonic cells or embryo culture medium. This method can detect the gene of embryos before implantation, and help parents avoid implanting embryos carrying disease genes into their mothers.

2. Genetic counseling and family investigation

In the process of IVF, genetic counseling and family investigation can be conducted on both spouses to find out whether there are genetic diseases in the family, so as to determine whether genetic screening is required. The genetic counselor will have a detailed understanding of the husband and wife's family medical history, and provide corresponding suggestions and guidance.

3. Chromosome analysis

Chromosome analysis is a common genetic screening method, which can detect the number and structural abnormalities of chromosomes. This method can exclude genetic diseases caused by chromosome abnormalities, such as Down's syndrome and Edwards syndrome.

4. Family genetic testing

Through family genetic testing of both spouses, we can determine whether there is a risk of carrying genetic defects. This can provide accurate detection results for some known genetic diseases, such as cystic fibrosis and hereditary deafness.

Conclusion: IVF itself will not increase the risk of hereditary diseases, but genetic screening through IVF technology can help parents avoid implanting embryos carrying disease genes into mothers. With advanced genetic testing methods, families can consult professional genetic consultants to determine the risk of genetic diseases, so as to achieve the goal of producing healthy babies.