Genetic screening emerging as key to better IVF success rates, say Kolkata experts
Emili Banerjee, Genetic Counsellor at Genome – The Fertility Centre in Kolkata said that the procedure of Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) to select embryos without abnormalities for implantation can have better assurance of a successful pregnancy and has better chances of a healthy baby. She emphasied on how genetic testing can be beneficial 'not only for those who are seeking IVF due to infertility, but also patients who have had recurrent pregnancy failures.'
Genome held a session on on July 23, on how to 'Decode Infertility with Genetics' where doctors and clinicians spoke at length about how advanced genetic screening is transforming the success rates of IVF and identifying the underlying causes of unexplained infertility.
There was an emphasis on how genetic screening has been of exceptional service to patients who had no hope of bearing a healthy child due to being carriers of serious inherited conditions. Some of them have genetic issues in their extended families which lead to failed pregnancies, but couples remain unaware of it for years.
'It is not obligatory for couples with genetic problems to seek sperm or egg donation, to opt for adoption or to refrain from marriage or childbearing entirely,' Genome Director of Clinical Service, Dr. Sanjay Das Gupta said, 'PGT helps to determine if the baby would be born with inherited disorders such as Thalassemia or Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) before the pregnancy even occurs.'
As a medical expert in the field of IVF, Dr Das Gupta suggested that when a couple is not able to conceive through natural conjugal relationship, but both the partners are healthy and have no apparent issues with their reproductive systems, there can be underlying genetic issues that can lead to unsuccessful pregnancies. That is why in such cases, genetic screening can help bring about positive change.
An integrated, team-based strategy can optimize the outcomes of assisted reproductive technology and guide patients to make informed reproductive decisions. The session conveyed how genetic screening is not rare or optional but rather a keystone in modern fertility care.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
19 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Holistic Wellness Programme Organised on World IVF Day by Gunjan IVF World
Ghaziabad: A wellness programme 'Taking You from Maybe to Baby' was organised in Indirapuram on Friday to mark World IVF Day. The programme organised at Gunjan IVF World, Ghaziabad, aimed to support individuals and couples on their fertility journey. Dr Gunjan Gupta, founder of Gunjan IVF world, stated that the programme provided guidance to those beginning their fertility journey or exploring IVF options. She said that the programme focused on the four key pillars of overcoming infertility – physical health, mental health, self-care and the wonders of IVF. Dr Gunjan said, 'Through this initiative, we have tried to provide not just knowledge and support but also real tools that will help couples move from uncertainty to the joy of parenthood.' Holistic Wellness Programme Organised on World IVF Day by Gunjan IVF World In the first session, yoga and health expert Ms Iris Vatrana discussed the importance of yoga in hormonal balance, stress relief and boosting fertility. In the second session, mental health expert Dr Mandira Adhikari shared some facts on emotional health and stress management during fertility treatments. In the third session, influencer and health advocate Ms Anshu Dhawan spoke about the importance of self-love and care during the fertility journey. Finally, Dr Gunjan Gupta, MD and Founder of Gunjan IVF World, provided useful information regarding three common myths related to IVF. These included questions such as, can IVF be done at any age? Is infertility solely a woman's issue? And are all IVF clinics the same? They discussed these topics in detail and also answered people's questions. The closing session offered a direct opportunity for people to interact with the experts. The day concluded with a book launch by Dr Gunjan Gupta on Egg freezing which was launched at an IVF summit organised by IHW council. About Gunjan IVF World Gunjan IVF World is a leading fertility clinic in India, committed to ethical, advanced, and compassionate reproductive care. With state-of-the-art technology and a patient-first approach, the centre has helped more than 25,000 couples in expanding their families. The brand has also received recognition as a notable IVF Chain in North India. Note to the Reader: This article is part of Hindustan Times' promotional consumer connect initiative and is independently created by the brand. Hindustan Times assumes no editorial responsibility for the content.
Hindustan Times
21 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
IVF vs IUI: What's the difference, which is better for you or more affordable? Gynecologist explains pros and cons
Are you not being able to get pregnant after years of trying? You might have come across Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) – both methods of reproductive assistance. While they are meant to make it easier for you and your partner to get pregnant, they both have pros and cons, and a doctor can walk you through what makes the most sense for you, your partner and your unique situation. Also read | World IVF Day: Experts share how sperm freezing is giving men more control over fertility and fatherhood According to an obstetrician-gynecologist, IUI is less invasive, more affordable, and often the starting option for mild infertility, while IVF is reserved for more complex cases and yields higher success rates per attempt. (Freepik) But if you are stressed or confused about these fertility treatments or undecided about seeing a fertility expert, Dr Neelam Suri, senior consultant, obstetrics and gynaecology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, shared in an interview with HT Lifestyle what you need to know about these two popular options for people trying to conceive. She said, 'For individuals and couples facing challenges with conception, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) are two of the most common assisted reproductive technologies. While both aim to increase the chance of pregnancy, they differ significantly in procedure, invasiveness, cost, and ideal candidates.' What is IUI? Explaing how it is less invasive than IVF and a relatively quick procedure, Dr Suri said, 'IUI is a relatively simple procedure where prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. This process is less invasive and typically less costly than IVF, with success rates per cycle ranging from 10–20 percent depending on factors like age and fertility diagnosis. IUI is often ideal for cases of unexplained infertility, mild male factor infertility, or issues with cervical mucus. It is commonly the first-line treatment due to its lower physical and financial demands. Medications to stimulate ovulation may be used alongside IUI, but this can slightly increase the risk of multiple pregnancies, such as twins.' What is IVF? In contrast, IVF is a more complex process involving ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization of eggs in a laboratory, and subsequent embryo transfer into the uterus, Dr Suri said, and added: 'IVF is recommended when there are more significant fertility barriers, such as blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, severe male factor infertility, advanced maternal age, or when several cycles of IUI have failed. Success rates for IVF are considerably higher, often 40–50 percent per cycle for women under 35, but decrease with age.' IUI vs IVF pros and cons According to Dr Suri, 'the cost per IVF cycle is substantially higher than IUI, and the process is both physically and emotionally demanding, involving more clinic visits, injections, and potential side effects from hormonal medications'. Dr Suri explained, 'Both treatments carry some risk of multiple pregnancies and potential side effects from fertility medications, but IVF allows more control (for example, with single embryo transfer, the risk of multiples can be minimized). Deciding which path is right depends on age, underlying diagnosis, prior fertility history, financial considerations, and the urgency of results. Fertility specialists tailor recommendations based on diagnostic findings and personal preferences, sometimes starting with IUI in simpler cases or turning directly to IVF for more complex or urgent scenarios.' In summary, according to Dr Suri, IUI is 'less invasive, more affordable, and often the starting option for mild infertility', while IVF is 'reserved for more complex cases and yields higher success rates per attempt, balancing greater investment with increased chance of conception'. Ultimately, the choice between IUI and IVF depends on individual circumstances, medical history, and personal preferences, and consulting with a fertility specialist can help determine the best course of treatment for each couple. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
India Today
4 days ago
- India Today
Opposition accuses Election Commission of stealing votes amid Bihar voter list row
28:28 In this episode of Health 360, we commemorate World IVF Day and celebrate the birth of the world's first test tube baby. We also explore how IVF has evolved over the decades, transforming the landscape of fertility treatment.
