CGH array

A fairly new technique is now in use in the largest IVF/ICSI clinics worldwide.

CGH array is a method allowing scientists to have a clear overview of the chromosomal content of the embryo^?. This is particularly relevant when the couple has a few “good looking” embryos, but which are not leading to a successful pregnancy. It is likely that a number of embryos are chromosomally abnormal, and so would automatically lead to a miscarriage.

This technique can save months for each treatment as the woman wouldn’t have to receive bad quality embryos for several cycles before the best one was re-implanted.

How does CGH array work?

The method works by dissecting a single cell from the embryo – it can be from the blastocyst^?, from the trophectoderm or a polar body. The content of that cell is then analysed in great detail allowing the IVF lab to identify chromosomally “normal” embryos.

The most commonly used method has been set up in Cambridge, UK. You can read more details here

This checking procedure is particularly relevant as some scientists believe that COS (controlled ovarian stimulation) can increase the risk of abnormal chromosomal content.