Fertility clinic Perth | Dr Hunter about genetic screening in Perth WA

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis


Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis in simple words is the genetic profiling of embryos before they are implanted in the uterus.
Preimplantation Genetic Screening is used to screen embryos for abnormal numbers of chromosomes (e.g. Down Syndrome) to improve the chance of pregnancy and reduce miscarriage.

What to know about preimplantation diagnosis?

Avoiding Miscarriages
The number 1 reason for recurrent miscarriages is abnormal chromosomes in the fetus (called ‘aneuploidy’). This accounts for about half of miscarriages. And the older you are as a woman, the more likely this abnormality becomes.

Genetic Disease
If, in your bloodline, there's a risk of genetic disease, then this type of screening is an extra reassurance during the IVF procedure. Prior to implantation, 1 or 2 cells are removed from the embryo, to check if a problematic gene is present in the embryo. It's a way to reduce the risk of passing on a genetic condition to your child.

Comprehensive fertility treatment is planned and coordinated with Monash IVF West Leederville, one of WA’s leading fertility centres.
Call us to make an appointment: 1800 628 533

Abnormal Chromosomes
In IVF, it's important to review the chromosomes for both parents. Abnormalities there can be the cause of recurrent miscarriage.
This is where, in an IVF procedure, genetic profiling of the embryos makes a difference. The screening process identifies embryos with normal chromosomes, and as a result studies now show significantly improved pregnancy rates, in couples with "balanced translocation" a specific type of abnormality in the chromosomes.

If you and your partner need help exploring fertility treatment, it often means that your time is precious. It also means that you want to tap into the expertise of a highly qualified and experienced specialist. An important aspect to check is that your fertility specialist holds a Certificate of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. In WA, only 3 fertility specialists are CREI accredited and I am the only female among this small group.
Dr Tamara Hunter
Fertility specialist Perth WA

Useful links

From our blog: Putting your mind at ease with pre-implantation genetic testing.

Genetic Diseases and Family Planning


Learn more about how Genetic Diseases could be impacting your ability to conceive and also about how you can help plan your pregnancy.


Read more

How does Genetic Screening influence my IVF journey?



Genetic screening: Why is it used in IVF Treatment?



Dr Hunter


Dr Tamara Hunter - Fertility Specialist Perth WA

Contact Me


My Practice


gynaecologist perth
Dr Tamara Hunter consults at The Woom

43 Richardson St
WEST PERTH WA 6005

Call: 08 9388 7780