Genetic Diagnosis (Genetic Testing) in IVF Treatment in Cyprus

Genetic diagnosis in IVF treatment in Cyprus is an advanced technology method that analyzes embryos for chromosomal and genetic health to ensure only healthy embryos are transferred. Dr. Murat Önal’s clinic applies PGT and PGS tests with the most modern genetic laboratory infrastructure, increasing pregnancy rates and the chance of healthy births.

Genetic tests provide great advantages, especially for couples with recurrent miscarriages, advanced maternal age, or carriers of genetic diseases.

What is Genetic Diagnosis (PGT/PGS)?

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGT) and Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) are procedures where cells are biopsied from embryos during IVF treatment for genetic analysis.

What is PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis)?

PGT is a test performed to detect specific genetic diseases in embryos. For example, single-gene disorders such as thalassemia, cystic fibrosis, and SMA can be identified before transfer.

What is PGS (Preimplantation Genetic Screening)?

PGS is a test that screens embryos for numerical chromosomal abnormalities. Its aim is to identify conditions like Down syndrome and Turner syndrome to ensure healthy embryo transfer.

Note: PGT and PGS tests do not guarantee genetic health but significantly increase pregnancy chances and minimize genetic disease risks.

The genetic diagnosis process is performed during IVF treatment in the following steps:

Genetik tanı süreci, tüp bebek tedavisi sırasında aşağıdaki adımlarla uygulanır:

1 – Ovarian Stimulation and Egg Retrieval
The woman undergoes ovarian stimulation, and mature eggs are collected.

2 – Fertilization (ICSI)
Retrieved eggs are fertilized with sperm in the lab to create embryos.

3 – Embryo Development
Embryos are cultured to day 5 (blastocyst stage).

4 – Embryo Biopsy
A few cells are biopsied from day 5 embryos. This does not harm the embryo.

5 – Genetic Analysis
Cells are sent to the genetic laboratory for PGT or PGS testing.

6 – Healthy Embryo Transfer
Genetically healthy embryos, and if desired, of the selected gender, are transferred to the patient.

Dr. Murat Önal collaborates with internationally accredited laboratories to perform all genetic diagnosis processes and provides detailed genetic counseling to his patients.

Who Is Recommended for Genetic Diagnosis?

Genetic diagnosis tests are recommended for:

Women aged 35 and above (due to increased chromosomal anomaly risks)
Couples with recurrent miscarriages
Couples with recurrent IVF failure
Carriers of genetic diseases (thalassemia, SMA, cystic fibrosis, etc.)
Those wanting gender selection (possible with PGT or PGS)
Couples with structural chromosomal abnormalities

Dr. Murat Önal evaluates genetic diagnosis needs in detail during the initial consultation and determines the most appropriate test protocol.

Which Genetic Tests Are Performed in Cyprus?

The main genetic tests performed during IVF treatment in Cyprus include:

1 – PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy)

Analyzes the numerical structure of all chromosomes to detect abnormalities such as Down syndrome.

2 – PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders)

For carrier couples of single-gene diseases (e.g., cystic fibrosis, thalassemia, SMA), it prevents transfer of affected embryos.

3 – PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements)

Used to prevent embryos from inheriting structural chromosomal abnormalities such as translocations or inversions.

Dr. Murat Önal’s clinic offers the broadest genetic screening panels in cooperation with internationally accredited laboratories.

Differences Between PGT and PGS

Feature	PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis)	PGS (Preimplantation Genetic Screening)
Purpose	Detect specific genetic diseases	Screen for chromosomal abnormalities
Usage	Carriers of genetic diseases	Advanced age, recurrent miscarriage, implantation failure
Analysis	Single gene analysis	Examines all 23 chromosome pairs
Gender Selection	Determined as a byproduct	Gender selection possible

Result: Both tests evaluate embryo genetic health, but PGT focuses on diseases, while PGS focuses on chromosomal count.

Genetic Diagnosis Process in Cyprus

The genetic diagnosis process in IVF treatment is meticulously carried out with modern laboratory infrastructure and an expert embryology team:

1. Initial Consultation and Planning

Patient history and genetic risks are assessed.
Appropriate tests (PGT-A, PGT-M, PGT-SR) are decided.

2. Starting IVF Treatment

Ovarian stimulation is initiated.
Eggs are collected and fertilized in the lab.

3. Embryo Development

Embryos are monitored until day 5 (blastocyst stage).

4. Embryo Biopsy

Cells are biopsied from day 5 embryos. This does not affect embryo development

5. Genetic Analysis

Samples are sent to the genetic lab.
Results are obtained within 5–10 days.

6. Embryo Transfer

Healthy, genetically normal embryos are transferred to the patient.

Dr. Murat Önal follows each step closely to provide the most accurate genetic counseling to his patients.

Success Rates of Genetic Diagnosis in Cyprus

Genetic diagnosis significantly increases IVF success rates because transferring chromosomally healthy embryos:

Increases pregnancy rates
Reduces miscarriage risks

Success Rates:

PGT-A pregnancy rate: 65–80%
PGT-M and PGT-SR: Reduce the risk of transferring affected embryos to below 1%

Result: Genetic diagnosis not only improves pregnancy rates but also significantly increases healthy birth rates.

Embryo Transfer After Genetic Diagnosis

After genetic diagnosis, chromosomally healthy embryos are identified and prepared for transfer.

Transfer Process:

Healthy embryos are transferred to a natural or medicated uterus environment.
The procedure is painless and requires no anesthesia.
Pregnancy testing is done 10–12 days after transfer.

Advantage: Transferring genetically normal embryos increases pregnancy chances and reduces miscarriage risks.

Advantages of Genetic Testing in Cyprus

Increases pregnancy rates by selecting healthy embryos
Reduces miscarriage risks by preventing chromosomal abnormalities
Prevents genetic diseases such as thalassemia and SMA from being passed on
Enables gender selection within ethical and legal frameworks
Allows HLA-matched embryo selection for siblings in cases of hematologic diseases

Result: Genetic testing is the most advanced safety and success technology in IVF treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is PGT recommended for in Cyprus?

For couples with recurrent miscarriages, genetic disease carriers, advanced maternal age, or recurrent IVF failures.

How are PGT and PGS performed in Cyprus?

Cells are biopsied from day 5 embryos, analyzed in genetic labs, and results are ready in 5–10 days.

What are the prices for genetic testing in Cyprus?

PGT-A tests: €2,500–€3,500, PGT-M tests: €3,500–€5,000.

Does genetic diagnosis increase IVF success rates in Cyprus?

Yes. Transferring genetically healthy embryos increases pregnancy and live birth rates.

Can gender selection be done with PGT in Cyprus?

Yes. Gender determination is possible during PGT and is legal in Cyprus.

Does genetic testing affect embryo development?

No. Biopsy does not affect development when performed in experienced labs.

How long do genetic screening tests take in Cyprus?

Results are typically available within 5–10 days.

Is genetic diagnosis painful in Cyprus?

No. Biopsy is done on embryos; no extra procedure is required for the patient.

Who is PGS suitable for in Cyprus?

Women over 35, those with recurrent miscarriages, or failed IVF attempts.

Which diseases can be detected with genetic diagnosis in Cyprus?

Single-gene diseases like thalassemia, SMA, cystic fibrosis; chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome.

How is embryo transfer done after genetic diagnosis?

Healthy embryos are prepared, and transfer is performed when the uterus lining is ready.

What is the pregnancy chance after PGT in Cyprus?

Between 65–80%.

Are genetic tests legal in Cyprus?

Yes. Genetic testing is legal and regulated by the Ministry of Health in Cyprus.

How can I book a genetic diagnosis appointment in Cyprus?

Appointments can be made by filling out the online form on Dr. Murat Önal’s website or by calling the contact number.