Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)

Traditional methods used to identify genetic disease require prenatal diagnosis through amniocentesis or CVS, followed by potential termination of the pregnancy if the fetus is found to be affected. Recent scientific advances now allow the diagnosis of some genetic disorders before pregnancy is established using a technique known as PGD. PGD combines the technology of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) with new molecular biology techniques. Following fertilization of an egg, a single cell is removed from an embryo in a procedure called an "embryo biopsy." If the embryo is found not to contain the genetic disorder being tested for, the embryo is transferred into the uterus, and allowed to develop. Couples with a known genetic disorders can now have unaffected children without the emotional and ethical challenges associated with traditional prenatal diagnosis.