The NYU Fertility Center is the most experienced American center to offer this valuable service. In 1992, our director Dr. James Grifo conducted preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) that resulted in the first American baby born using these procedures.

PGS, also referred to as preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), is used in conjunction with embryo biopsy, which removes a single cell from a multi-celled embryo for genetic evaluation. Here we can test for aneuploidy, which means an abnormal number of chromosomes. Embryos can also be tested for single-gene defects, or can be tested for gender so as to screen out embryos that may have x-linked disorders. This advanced technology allows prospective parents who are carriers of genetic conditions to avoid selective pregnancy termination. Some of the genetic disorders identified with PGS include:

• Cystic Fibrosis
• Down Syndrome
• Hemophilia
• Huntington’s Disease
• Marfan’s Disease
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Sickle Cell Anemia

This advanced technology is also used to increase chances of delivery in certain women with a history of recurrent miscarriage or previous IVF failures.