Preimplantation genetic diagnosis to prevent disorders in children

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is an alternative reproductive option for couples at risk of having a child affected with a genetic disorder. Although prenatal diagnosis (PND) has been available for many years, it is not acceptable to many owing to issues relating to termination of pregnancy...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:British journal of nursing (Mark Allen Publishing) 2005, Vol.14 (2), p.64-70
Main Author: Lashwood, Alison
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Bioethics
Female
Genetic Counseling
Genetic Diseases, Inborn - prevention & control
Humans
Nursing
Preconception Care
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Outcome
Reproductive Techniques, Assisted
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Summary:Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is an alternative reproductive option for couples at risk of having a child affected with a genetic disorder. Although prenatal diagnosis (PND) has been available for many years, it is not acceptable to many owing to issues relating to termination of pregnancy. PGD involves assisted-reproductive technology, even though most couples undertaking it are fertile. However, if the treatment is successful, the couple will not have to consider PND. PGD is only available at a small number of centres and for a limited number of genetic conditions. It is a complex and time-consuming procedure. The success rate is around 20%, consequently, there is a relatively low chance of success and this requires careful consideration by couples who generally can become spontaneously pregnant. However, PGD is now more widely understood and available to all at the point of referral. This article sets out to explain the PGD procedure, its implications, limitations, and regulation in the UK and to discuss associated dilemmas.
ISSN:0966-0461
DOI:10.12968/bjon.2005.14.2.17433