At a glance
Learn what genetic carrier screening involves, why it matters before IVF, and how results can guide decisions about PGT-M in Thailand.
What is genetic carrier screening?
Genetic carrier screening is a blood or saliva test that looks for changes (variants) in genes that can cause inherited conditions. If you carry a variant for a condition, you usually do not have the condition yourself, but you may pass the variant to your children. Carrier screening is typically done before or during fertility treatment planning to help you understand your reproductive risks.
In the context of IVF, carrier screening can provide information that may influence whether you consider preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders (PGT-M). PGT-M is a technique used to test embryos for a specific genetic condition before transfer.
Why consider carrier screening before IVF?
Knowing your carrier status before IVF can help you and your clinician make more informed decisions. If both partners are carriers of the same autosomal recessive condition, or if one partner carries an X-linked condition, there is an increased chance that a child could inherit the condition. Carrier screening results can help you understand these risks and discuss options such as PGT-M, using donor gametes, or prenatal testing.
Carrier screening is not a requirement for IVF, but it is a personal choice that some people find useful for family planning.
What does carrier screening involve?
Carrier screening typically involves a simple blood test or saliva sample. The sample is analyzed in a laboratory to look for specific gene variants associated with a panel of inherited conditions. Panels can vary in the number and type of conditions they cover, from a few common ones to hundreds of rare diseases.
In Thailand, carrier screening is available through fertility clinics, genetic laboratories, and some hospitals. The process usually includes a consultation with a genetic counselor or fertility specialist to discuss your personal and family medical history before testing.
How carrier screening results can inform PGT-M decisions
If carrier screening shows that you and your partner are both carriers of the same autosomal recessive condition, or if you are a carrier of an X-linked condition, your clinician may discuss the option of PGT-M. PGT-M involves testing embryos created through IVF for the specific genetic variant before transfer. This can reduce the chance of having a child with that condition, but it does not guarantee a healthy pregnancy or baby.
Carrier screening results are not the only factor in deciding about PGT-M. Other considerations include the severity of the condition, your personal values, and the availability of testing in the clinic you choose.
What to consider when choosing carrier screening in Thailand
If you are considering carrier screening before IVF in Thailand, here are some points to discuss with your clinic:
- Which conditions are included in the panel? Ask for a list of the conditions tested and whether the panel is tailored to your ethnic background.
- What is the turnaround time for results? This can affect your IVF timeline.
- Who will interpret the results? A genetic counselor or doctor with experience in reproductive genetics should explain the implications.
- What are the costs? Carrier screening and PGT-M are separate procedures with separate fees. Ask for a detailed breakdown.
- What happens if a variant is found? Understand the next steps, including whether PGT-M is feasible and what the limitations are.
Practical questions to ask your clinic
Before you proceed, consider asking your fertility clinic in Thailand:
- Do you offer carrier screening on-site, or do you refer to an external laboratory?
- Can carrier screening be done before starting IVF stimulation?
- How long are results valid?
- If both partners are carriers, what are the options for embryo testing?
- Are there any additional consultations or counseling sessions recommended?
Next steps: a checklist
If you are planning IVF in Thailand and want to learn more about carrier screening, here is a simple checklist:
- Research fertility clinics that offer genetic services.
- Schedule a consultation to discuss your medical and family history.
- Ask about carrier screening panels and costs.
- If you decide to test, arrange for the blood or saliva sample.
- Review results with a genetic counselor or doctor.
- Discuss how results may affect your IVF plan, including whether PGT-M is an option.
For more information about genetic testing in IVF, see our PGT in Thailand guide. You can also explore our other guides or visit the FAQ section for common questions.
Frequently asked questions
Is carrier screening mandatory before IVF in Thailand?
No, carrier screening is not mandatory. It is an optional test that you can choose to have before or during IVF treatment. Your clinic can provide information about the process and help you decide if it is right for you.
What is the difference between carrier screening and PGT-M?
Carrier screening tests your blood or saliva to see if you carry a gene variant for a condition. PGT-M is a test performed on embryos created through IVF to see if they have inherited a specific genetic condition. Carrier screening is done on you, while PGT-M is done on embryos.
How long does carrier screening take in Thailand?
The time to receive results can vary depending on the laboratory and the panel used. It is best to ask your clinic for an estimated turnaround time, as this can affect your IVF schedule.
Can carrier screening be done after starting IVF?
In some cases, carrier screening can be done during the IVF cycle, but it is usually recommended to do it before starting treatment so that results are available to guide decisions about PGT-M. Discuss your timeline with your clinic.
What if I am a carrier but my partner is not?
If you are a carrier for a recessive condition and your partner is not, the chance of having a child with that condition is generally low. However, your clinician can explain the specific risks and discuss any additional testing that might be relevant.
Continue your research
Medical information notice: This article is educational and does not replace individual assessment, diagnosis, genetic counselling or treatment advice from a licensed clinician. Provider services, availability, fees and policies should be verified directly before booking.
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