What Is the CGT Genetic Carrier Test?
The CGT Genetic Carrier Test is an advanced genetic screening test used to identify whether individuals carry inherited genetic mutations that could potentially be passed to their children.
Also known as Expanded Carrier Screening, this test can analyze more than 300 inherited genetic diseases and over 1,600 known genetic mutations in a single laboratory analysis.
The CGT Genetic Carrier Test is performed using a simple blood sample. It helps fertility specialists detect genetic risks before pregnancy and design safer fertility treatment plans.
Although many genetic diseases cannot be cured, proper genetic screening and IVF planning can significantly reduce the risk of passing inherited conditions to future children.
Who Should Consider the CGT Genetic Carrier Test?
Carrier screening can be performed for any couple planning a pregnancy. However, it may be particularly recommended for patients who:
- Have a family history of genetic diseases
- Are in a consanguineous marriage (marriage between relatives)
- Previously had a child with a genetic disorder
- Are planning IVF treatment
- Are considering egg donation or sperm donation
For couples undergoing fertility treatments, the CGT Genetic Carrier Test helps identify potential genetic risks before embryo transfer.
CGT Testing in Egg Donation Programs
Genetic screening plays an important role in egg donation treatments to ensure donor health and reduce genetic risks.
Many fertility centers perform basic donor screening for common genetic diseases such as:
- Thalassemia
- Sickle Cell Disease
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Basic chromosomal abnormalities
However, these traditional tests cover only a limited number of conditions.
The CGT Genetic Carrier Test provides a more comprehensive evaluation by screening hundreds of inherited genetic disorders. This allows fertility specialists to better assess the genetic health of donors.
At Dogus IVF Center, carrier screening may be used to support safer donor selection during fertility treatments.
How CGT Testing Is Used in Donor Selection
When couples proceed with egg donation treatment, donor screening may include genetic carrier testing.
The process usually includes the following steps:
- The intended father provides a sperm sample, which is frozen for later use.
- A suitable donor candidate is selected from the donor pool.
- A blood sample from the donor is analyzed using the CGT Genetic Carrier Test.
- The analysis typically takes 2–4 weeks to complete.
If the donor’s results are suitable, ovarian stimulation begins and eggs are retrieved for IVF fertilization.
CGT Testing in Consanguineous Marriages
In marriages between relatives, the risk of both partners carrying the same genetic mutation may be higher.
When both partners carry the same recessive mutation, there is an increased risk that the child may inherit the associated genetic disorder.
The CGT Genetic Carrier Test helps identify these mutations before pregnancy and allows doctors to take preventive steps during IVF treatment.
With proper genetic screening and embryo selection, the risk of inherited disease can be significantly reduced.
Genetic Carrier Screening Before IVF
Even couples without a known family history of genetic disease may unknowingly carry recessive mutations.
If both partners carry the same mutation, the risk of passing the condition to their child increases.
Carrier screening helps fertility specialists:
- Identify hidden genetic risks
- Provide genetic counseling
- Plan safer fertility treatments
This approach allows couples to make informed decisions before starting IVF treatment.
Using CGT Results with IVF and PGT Testing
If genetic carrier screening identifies a mutation in one or both partners, fertility specialists may recommend IVF combined with PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders).
In this approach:
- Embryos are created through IVF
- Embryos are tested for the specific genetic mutation
- Only embryos without the mutation are selected for transfer
This method can significantly reduce the risk of passing inherited diseases to future children.
CGT Genetic Carrier Testing at Dogus IVF Center
At Dogus IVF Center Cyprus, advanced genetic testing technologies can be integrated into fertility treatment plans when necessary.
The CGT Genetic Carrier Test helps identify genetic risks before embryo transfer and supports couples in achieving healthier pregnancies.
Our goal is to combine modern reproductive medicine with advanced genetic screening technologies to provide safe and personalized fertility treatments.
