One of the many questions you may encounter when starting out on your surrogacy journey is whether genetic testing is something you should consider. For some, the idea can feel a bit overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be. Understanding what genetic testing is, why it’s offered, and how it fits into the IVF process can help you feel more informed, confident, and prepared.
At Shining Light Baby, we’re here to help you make sense of each step. Below, we’ll walk you through what you need to know about genetic testing as an intended parent.
What Is Genetic Testing in Surrogacy?
In IVF and surrogacy, genetic testing refers to a group of medical tests that help identify inherited conditions or chromosome differences. It’s not the same as ancestry or recreational DNA tests. Instead, it’s used to improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy and birth.
Genetic testing can apply to you, your donor (if you’re using one), and your embryos. It helps your fertility team make informed decisions about embryo selection and your overall treatment plan.
Common Types of Genetic Testing
There are several types of genetic testing you may encounter. Each serves a different purpose and may be recommended depending on your personal or family history:
Carrier Screening
This test looks at your DNA (and your donor’s, if applicable) to see if you carry genes for inherited conditions like cystic fibrosis or Tay-Sachs disease. If both people contributing genetic material are carriers for the same condition, there’s a higher risk of passing it on to the child. Knowing this ahead of time can help you plan your next steps.
PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy)
PGT-A is done on embryos before transfer. It checks for the correct number of chromosomes. Embryos with too many or too few chromosomes are less likely to lead to a successful pregnancy. PGT-A helps identify which embryos have the best chance of healthy development.
PGT-M (for single-gene disorders)
If carrier screening shows that you or your donor are carriers of a specific genetic condition, PGT-M may be used to test embryos for that condition before transfer.
PGT-SR (for structural rearrangements)
This test checks embryos when one genetic parent has a known chromosome issue, such as a translocation. It helps identify embryos with the right chromosome balance for transfer.
Why Clinics Offer Genetic Testing
The goal of genetic testing is not to find “perfect” embryos, it’s to increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy. Here’s why clinics often recommend it:
- It helps identify the embryos most likely to implant and develop normally.
- It can reduce the risk of miscarriage caused by chromosomal issues.
- It allows you to prepare for or avoid passing on known genetic conditions.
- It helps guide decisions about which embryo to transfer.
When embryos have already undergone genetic screening, it can sometimes reduce matching time. Many gestational carriers feel more confident moving forward with intended parents who have completed testing, since it may increase the chances of a successful pregnancy on the first transfer.
Is Genetic Testing Required?
Not always. Some clinics may strongly recommend it, especially if you’re using donor eggs or sperm, or if your medical history suggests a higher risk. In some cases, insurance plans may cover or require specific tests, like carrier screening.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. Talk openly with your doctor about what’s recommended for your situation and why. They can explain the pros and cons and help you make the decision that feels right for you.
What Happens with the Results?
Once your testing is complete, the results are reviewed by your medical team and shared with you. If you’re using a donor, carrier screening results are important in selecting a donor who is genetically compatible. For embryos, PGT-A or PGT-M results can help determine which ones are most likely to lead to a healthy pregnancy.
Sometimes, the results may bring up emotional or ethical questions, especially if embryos show signs of a genetic issue. In these cases, working with a genetic counselor can be very helpful. They can walk you through what the results mean and support you in making decisions that align with your values.
What About the Costs?
Genetic testing adds to the overall cost of IVF, and prices can vary depending on the type of test and your clinic. Carrier screening is usually less expensive than embryo testing. PGT-A or PGT-M may cost several thousand dollars per cycle.
Insurance coverage also varies. Some plans may cover all or part of the cost, while others may not cover it at all. Most often, intended parents are responsible for paying for testing related to themselves, their donor, and their embryos. Surrogates are generally not involved in embryo-related genetic testing unless there is a specific reason to include them in the discussion.
Questions to Ask Your Clinic
As you consider whether genetic testing is right for your journey, here are a few helpful questions to ask your fertility team:
- Is genetic testing required by the clinic?
- What type of testing do you recommend for us?
- What are the risks or limitations of the tests?
- How will the results be explained and used in our treatment plan?
- Is genetic counseling available if we need more guidance?
Making Informed Decisions About Genetic Testing
Genetic testing can be a helpful tool in supporting a healthy pregnancy through surrogacy. While it’s not required for every family, it can offer peace of mind and help you make more informed decisions along the way.
At Shining Light Baby, we’re here to walk with you through every step, from initial consultations to embryo selection and beyond. If you have questions about genetic testing, donor matching, or the surrogacy process in general, we invite you to reach out. Our team is here to guide you with compassion and care.
Contact Shining Light Baby today to learn more or schedule a no-cost intended parent consultation today.