NGS, or Next Generation Sequencing, is an advanced genetic diagnostic test that allows a detailed examination of all 46 chromosomes in embryos. Unlike older methods, NGS provides a more comprehensive and precise analysis, helping identify chromosomal problems before pregnancy begins.
One of the leading reasons why healthy pregnancies may fail to occur despite successful embryo transfers is the presence of chromosomal abnormalities.
Who Can Benefit from NGS?
NGS is particularly recommended for:
Women over 38 years of age
Couples with recurrent pregnancy loss
Couples with multiple failed IVF attempts
Cases where chromosomal issues (such as deletions or duplications) are detected in either parent
How the Process Works
On the day of egg retrieval or ICSI, sperm cells are injected into the eggs using the microinjection technique.
The resulting embryos are monitored in the laboratory for 5–6 days until they reach the blastocyst stage.
A small biopsy of 5–6 cells is taken from the trophectoderm (outer cell layer), while leaving the inner cell mass untouched.
The sampled embryos are frozen the same day, and the NGS screening process takes about 2–3 weeks.
Once results are ready, the mother begins preparation for transfer. The healthiest embryos are then selected and transferred into the uterus.
Any remaining healthy embryos are safely frozen for future use.
Why Choose Us?
At Cyprus American IVF Center, NGS is performed entirely in-house using our state-of-the-art NGS device. Our experienced embryologists and genetics team ensure the highest level of accuracy without sending samples to external laboratories.
This advanced approach helps increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy while reducing risks associated with genetic abnormalities.
Stay Healthy,
Cyprus American IVF Center
Frequently Asked Questions About NGS in IVF
What is NGS in IVF?
NGS, or Next Generation Sequencing, is an advanced genetic screening method used to examine all 46 chromosomes of embryos before transfer. It helps identify chromosomal abnormalities and supports the selection of healthier embryos.
Why is NGS used in IVF treatment?
NGS is used to detect chromosomal problems in embryos before pregnancy begins. Since chromosomal abnormalities are one of the main reasons for failed implantation, miscarriage, or unsuccessful IVF attempts, NGS may help improve the chance of a healthy pregnancy.
Who can benefit from NGS?
NGS may be recommended for women over 38, couples with recurrent pregnancy loss, couples with repeated IVF failures, or couples where chromosomal deletions, duplications, or other genetic concerns are detected in either parent.
How is NGS performed?
After fertilization through ICSI, embryos are monitored in the laboratory until they reach the blastocyst stage on day 5 or 6. A small biopsy of 5 to 6 cells is taken from the trophectoderm, and the embryo is frozen while the sample is analyzed.
Does embryo biopsy damage the baby-forming cells?
The biopsy is taken from the trophectoderm, which is the outer cell layer of the blastocyst. The inner cell mass, which forms the baby, is left untouched during the procedure.
How long does NGS testing take?
The NGS screening process usually takes about 2 to 3 weeks. During this time, biopsied embryos are safely frozen until the genetic results are ready.
What happens after NGS results are ready?
After the results are ready, the healthiest chromosomally suitable embryos are selected. The mother then begins preparation for embryo transfer, and the selected embryo is transferred into the uterus.
Can remaining healthy embryos be frozen?
Yes. Any remaining healthy embryos can be safely frozen and stored for future use, depending on the couple’s treatment plan and clinic policy.
Can NGS increase IVF success rates?
NGS may help increase IVF success by supporting the selection of embryos with normal chromosomal structure. However, success also depends on age, egg quality, sperm quality, uterine health, embryo quality, and overall treatment planning.
Can NGS reduce miscarriage risk?
NGS may help reduce the risk of miscarriage caused by chromosomal abnormalities by identifying embryos with abnormal chromosome numbers or structures before transfer.
What chromosomal problems can NGS detect?
NGS can examine all 46 chromosomes and may detect abnormalities such as missing or extra chromosomes, deletions, duplications, and other chromosomal imbalances.
Is NGS suitable for every IVF patient?
NGS is not required for every IVF patient. It is usually recommended when there is advanced maternal age, recurrent miscarriage, repeated IVF failure, or a known chromosomal concern in one of the parents.
Is NGS the same as PGD?
NGS is a technology used for comprehensive chromosomal screening, while PGD is a broader term for preimplantation genetic diagnosis. NGS may be used as part of embryo genetic testing before transfer.
Why are embryos frozen during NGS testing?
Embryos are frozen because genetic testing takes time. Freezing allows embryos to be safely stored while the laboratory completes the NGS analysis and prepares accurate results.
Why is in-house NGS testing important?
In-house NGS testing means embryo biopsy samples are analyzed within the same center instead of being sent to an external laboratory. This may support faster coordination, better sample control, and close collaboration between embryology and genetics teams.
Does NGS guarantee a healthy baby?
No. NGS does not guarantee pregnancy or a healthy baby. It helps identify chromosomal abnormalities in embryos, but pregnancy success and baby health also depend on many genetic, medical, and pregnancy-related factors.
What should couples consider before NGS?
Couples should understand the embryo biopsy process, testing duration, embryo freezing, possible results, limitations of genetic screening, success rates, costs, and whether NGS is medically recommended for their case.
