Embryo Testing: To Test or Not to Test, That is the Question

One of the most significant changes I have seen in IVF over the last decade is the big push to genetically test all embryos. Fresh vs. frozen has become the great embryo testing debate. 

Should you freeze embryos for genetic testing during IVF treatment? It’s a tough decision with pros and cons, so let’s take a closer look.

The plus side

On the plus side, genetic testing may help reduce the risk of miscarriage. By identifying and selecting embryos without congenital abnormalities, couples can increase their chances of a successful pregnancy. Plus, genetic testing can help regulate a woman’s body after IVF stimulation, making the process smoother and less stressful.

Another benefit of embryo testing is that it can be helpful for couples who both carry a gene that could lead to a serious genetic disorder. Testing can help them determine if an embryo has the gene, so they can make informed decisions about whether to implant it or not.

In some countries, if you’re one of those couples who wants to choose the sex of your baby, genetic testing can help you do that, too. Instead of repeating the retrieval process, you can test your frozen embryos and decide which one to use. For couples with a lot of frozen embryos, genetic testing can save time, money, and emotional strain.

It’s crucial to ask your medical team for specific statistics related to your age and other health factors to understand how genetic testing may impact your chances of success.

The downside  

As with anything in life, there are downsides to genetic testing. Just because an embryo comes back genetically normal, this doesn’t guarantee it will implant or is 100% viable. Also not every cell can be tested, so an abnormal result in embryo testing doesn’t necessarily mean the embryo wouldn’t develop into a healthy baby naturally. If it did come back abnormal, was it because cells were removed from a tiny embryo? 

In addition to the embryo’s health, there are other factors to consider when it comes to embryo testing, such as the environment and lining of the uterus. Be sure to ask about the potential risks associated with genetic testing. 

Some experts also believe a frozen transfer may result in a lower pregnancy rate than a fresh cycle, although this is under debate. Plus the freezing and thawing process can be tough on embryos, which can be stressful for couples.

My experience with embryo testing

When we went through our 17 cycles, genetic testing was primarily used for couples carrying a gene they didn’t want to be passed on. I am actually glad we never did genetic testing (even though I did suffer miscarriages) but I can’t speak for others. 

None of this is an exact science. As much as we know is as much as we DON’T know. Take embryo grading, for example; I had grade A embryos that miscarried and I have grade C embryos sleeping upstairs.

In conclusion

The bottom line is that genetic testing can be helpful, but it’s not a silver bullet. It’s essential to have a realistic understanding of what it can and can’t do. Genetic testing can reduce the risk of miscarriage, but it won’t guarantee success. 

At the end of the day, the decision to freeze embryos for embryo testing should be made after careful consideration of the pros and cons, as well as your individual circumstances. It’s important to ask questions, advocate for yourself, and seek advice from qualified medical professionals to make an informed decision that fits you best. Remember, this is your journey and your decision, so take your time and make the right choice for you.