Gender Selection in IVF: PGT Method, Legality, and Common Questions
In vitro fertilization (IVF) offers hope to thousands of couples who dream of having a child. However, one of the most frequently discussed and requested topics during this process is gender selection in IVF. Can today’s medical technology make this possible? What role does Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) play, and what is the legal situation in Turkey? Here’s everything you need to know about this complex and important subject.
Is Gender Selection Scientifically Possible?
Yes, scientifically and technically, gender selection during IVF is possible.
The main factor determining a baby’s gender is the chromosome carried by the sperm cell (X or Y).
Through specific laboratory methods used in IVF, it is possible to identify the embryo’s gender before transferring it to the uterus.
The Key Method: Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
PGT was originally developed to increase the success rate of IVF and prevent genetic diseases.
The process involves the following steps:
A tiny cell sample (biopsy) is taken from embryos obtained through IVF before they are transferred to the uterus.
These cells are then analyzed in a genetic laboratory in detail.
During this analysis, specialists can determine whether the embryo is healthy and also identify its chromosomal gender (XX or XY) with over 99% accuracy.
If gender selection is legally permitted, healthy embryos of the desired gender can be transferred to the uterus.
Is Gender Selection Legal in Turkey?
According to current Turkish laws and ethical regulations, gender selection during IVF for personal or social reasons is strictly prohibited and not performed.
In Which Cases Can Gender Be Determined? (Exceptions)
In Turkey, gender determination and embryo selection are considered ethical and legal only for medical reasons.
These exceptional cases include:
Sex-linked hereditary diseases:
If there is a risk of a severe genetic disease that affects only boys or only girls (linked to X or Y chromosomes), such as Hemophilia or Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy,
the goal is not gender selection, but to prevent the transmission of the disease.
The healthy embryo, which does not carry the disease (often of a specific gender), is then transferred.
In short, in Turkey, gender selection for “family balancing” or personal preference is not legally allowed.
Gender Selection Abroad
Due to legal restrictions in Turkey, some couples choose to undergo gender selection abroad.
Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC):
Gender selection is legally permitted here and is commonly performed for family balancing purposes.Other countries:
In the United States, Russia, and some Asian countries, gender selection is allowed under specific legal frameworks,
while in the United Kingdom, it is only permitted for medical reasons.
It’s important to remember that any medical procedure performed abroad must comply with the local laws and ethical standards of that country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the success rate of gender determination with PGT?
The accuracy rate of PGT in identifying embryo gender is 99.9%.
However, the overall success rate of IVF (achieving pregnancy) depends on factors such as the woman’s age and embryo quality.
2. Are there other gender selection methods? (MicroSort, etc.)
MicroSort: based on sperm separation by X and Y chromosomes.
However, it is less reliable than PGT and not permitted in Turkey.Diet or timing methods: techniques such as timing intercourse or following specific diets
have no scientific basis and do not influence the baby’s gender.
3. Is gender selection an ethical issue?
Yes. Gender selection in IVF is a highly debated ethical topic worldwide.
Concerns mainly involve gender discrimination and deviation from the medical purpose of IVF.
For this reason, many countries restrict gender selection to medically necessary cases only.
