IVF with PGT-M & Cystic Fibrosis

When it comes to building a family while managing the genetic complexities of cystic fibrosis (CF), in vitro fertilization (IVF) with preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic diseases (PGT-M) offers hope and precision. Here at Boston IVF, our fertility experts are dedicated to helping couples who are carriers of CF or have a family history of the disease build their families. Here’s an overview of how the process works and the impact it can have.

What is Cystic Fibrosis and How Does it Affect Fertility?
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition that affects various organs in the body, primarily the lungs and digestive system. It is caused by mutations in the CFTR gene and requires both parents to be carriers for the condition to be passed on. Couples where both partners are carriers have a 25% chance of having a child born with CF.

For men with CF, infertility is common due to the congenital absence of the vas deferens, the tube that transports sperm from the testes. While CF-related male infertility does not affect sperm production, it blocks the sperm’s ability to travel outside the body. Fortunately, through surgical sperm retrieval and IVF, men with CF can still father biological children.

IVF with PGT-M: Reducing the Risk of Passing CF
PGT-M is a genetic test conducted on embryos during the IVF process to screen for specific genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis. Here’s how it works:

1. IVF Cycle: The IVF process involves stimulating the ovaries with medications to produce multiple eggs. After about 10-12 days, these eggs are retrieved and fertilized with sperm in the lab, creating embryos.
2. Embryo Biopsy: Once the embryos have developed for 5-7 days, a biopsy is performed where a few cells are taken from each embryo without harming it. These cells are then sent to a genetic lab for analysis.
3. Genetic Testing (PGT-M): The lab screens the embryos specifically for the CF mutation, or any other genetic condition the couple might be concerned about. Only embryos that do not carry the CF mutation are selected for implantation.
4. Embryo Transfer: After receiving the test results, the CF-free embryos are frozen or prepared for transfer into the uterus in the next cycle. This approach allows couples to significantly reduce the risk of passing CF to their children.

Why Consider PGT-M?

• Accuracy and Safety: While no test is 100% perfect, PGT-M offers a highly reliable method to ensure that the embryos selected for transfer are free from cystic fibrosis or other genetic conditions.
• Planning for the Future: Couples who carry the CF mutation can take control of their family planning and reduce the risk of having a child affected by this life-altering condition.

Success Rates and Considerations
The success of IVF with PGT-M depends largely on factors such as the age of a female partner's eggs and the number of embryos available for testing. Generally, younger people produce more eggs, and therefore more embryos, increasing the chances of finding CF-free embryos.

• IVF Success Rates: IVF success rates are highly dependent on age, with individuals under 35 experiencing a higher likelihood of success compared to people in their late 30s or 40s.
• PGT-M Accuracy: PGT-M allows couples to test for specific monogenic diseases, such as CF. This can provide peace of mind in ensuring the best embryo is selected for transfer.

Preparing for IVF with CF
For people with cystic fibrosis, it is important to consult both a fertility specialist and a CF care team to optimize health before starting IVF. Female patients may need additional monitoring, particularly regarding lung health, as IVF involves anesthesia for egg retrieval. Male patients may require surgical sperm retrieval before the IVF cycle to ensure sperm availability.

Final Thoughts
If you or your partner have cystic fibrosis or are carriers of the CF gene, IVF with PGT-M at Boston IVF can provide a path forward for building your family. By utilizing advanced reproductive technologies, you can significantly reduce the risk of passing cystic fibrosis to your children, providing both hope and peace of mind.