Gender Selection & Family Balancing via Advanced PGS Screening

Today, intended parents hoping for a boy or a girl can choose a scientifically proven option to achieve their goal. Gender selection at VCRM combines two state-of-the-art technologies: Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS/PGT-A) and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). This method is virtually 100% effective, which is why it is the gold-standard protocol performed at our Virginia fertility center.

In the past, couples relied on outdated myths or unproven interventions like sperm sorting. Before modern PGS technology allowed comprehensive chromosome screening, sperm sorting was occasionally offered. Sperm sorting is unproven and is no longer performed by reputable fertility centers in the United States.

Preimplantation Genetic Screening allows our embryology team to analyze the chromosomal makeup of each embryo before transfer, identifying both sex chromosomes (X and Y) and numerical chromosome health (euploidy). Here is how the process works:

1. IVF Cycle: Intended parents complete standard IVF steps (ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization via ICSI).
2. Day 5 Biopsy: Several cells are gently removed from the trophectoderm layer (the future placenta) of Day 5/6 blastocysts.
3. Chromosomal Analysis: Genetic screening accurately determines whether each embryo possesses female chromosomes (XX) or male chromosomes (XY).
4. Selection & Transfer: Dr. Sharara selects and transfers an embryo that is both 1) the desired sex and 2) chromosomally normal (euploid).

Accurate gender selection is a vital medical advancement for parents-to-be who carry sex-linked genetic conditions. Sex-linked disorders are caused by mutated genes located on the X or Y chromosomes.

For example, severe X-linked recessive disorders like Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Hemophilia primarily affect male offspring. Couples carrying these mutations may choose gender selection to transfer a female embryo, protecting their child from inheriting the severe disease. Similarly, conditions like Turner Syndrome affect female development. PGS screens all 23 pairs of chromosomes, providing comprehensive peace of mind.

Family balancing is a deeply personal decision made for diverse medical and personal reasons. Dual board-certified reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Fady Sharara and our dedicated Virginia fertility center staff support you through every step of the process—from your initial consultation through egg retrieval, genetic testing, and embryo transfer.