When people learn that they carry a gene for some fatal abnormalities, they fear not just for themselves, but for their children who might inherit the same condition. This was the case with Nike.

Nike’s grandma died from breast cancer. Then three weeks to Nike’s graduation from the university, her mum too was diagnosed of breast cancer. Because of this family history, Nike decided to check if she inherited the gene mutation that increases cancer risk. She tested positive

She swore never to have biological children of her own so that she would not saddle her future children with the disease. Of course, this was a difficult decision since it is the dream of every woman to bear her own child.

Fortunately, her family doctor informed her about pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), in which doctors test embryos produced in vitro for a disease gene and implant only those that are free of it.

Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) is a genetic testing procedure used prior to implantation to help identify genetic defects within embryos. This serves to prevent certain genetic diseases or disorders from being passed on to the child. The embryos used in PGD are usually created during the process of in vitro fertilization (IVF).

PGD can test for more than 100 different genetic conditions including sickle cell anemia, albinism, cancer, crossed eyes, deafness, blindness and Down syndrome.

The following is a list of the type of individuals who are possible candidates for PGD/PGS:

• Carriers of sex-linked genetic disorders
• Carriers of single gene disorders
• Those with chromosomal disorders
• Women age 35 and over
• Women experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss. It can be connected with abnormal chromosome complement in a man or woman’s gametal cells.
• Women with more than one failed fertility treatment
• Family balancing (sex selection)

At Nordica Fertility Centre (Lagos, Abuja, Asaba) PGD/PGS has enabled us to dramatically increase the prospects for successful non affected pregnancy in many couples. If you feel that this therapy may benefit you, a friend or family member, we encourage you to contact us for additional information.