Genetic Counseling for IVF and Reproductive Endocrinology

Whether you want an expert to review your family's medical history, or you're interested in genetic testing during your IVF cycle, our genetic counselors can help.

Request an Appointment

For Genetic Counseling for IVF related requests:

1-319-356-8483

For all other requests:: 1-800-777-8442

Genes are basic units of information within our DNA that are passed on during reproduction. From your physical appearance and development to your likelihood of having or acquiring medical conditions, your genes are responsible for determining much of what makes you unique.

This genetic information can also be used to help you make decisions about in vitro fertilization and fertility procedures as well as help you understand possible risks for genetic conditions in your future children.

With the help of genetic testing and a thorough review of your family history, University of Iowa Health Care genetic counselors can help you understand and interpret the results of your genetic testing—guiding you through the process and the role genetics play in your reproductive journey.

Our approach to genetic counseling

Our experienced genetic counselors have a deep understanding of the role genetics plays in one’s health and development. They can help you make sense of the information, so you are well-informed and comfortable before deciding if genetic testing is right for you. They also are trained to help you navigate the family dynamics and emotional challenges that can arise throughout your reproductive journey. They work closely with infertility specialists and reproductive endocrinologists so that you receive comprehensive care to help improve your outcomes.

Types of genetic testing

Depending on your individual needs and where you are in your reproductive journey, your genetic counselor may offer one or more of the following tests:

Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A):

PGT-A is a screening test that provides information about certain chromosome differences in your embryos. This information can be used to make decisions about which embryo to implant/transfer. PGT-A can improve IVF outcomes for some patients, such as those who are older or have experienced multiple miscarriages.

Preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic conditions (PGT-M):

PGT-M screens embryos for specific genetic conditions that may run in your personal or family history. You may wish to talk to your provider about whether this test is right for you.

Preimplantation genetic testing for structural rearrangements (PGT-SR):

PGT-SR screens embryos for a chromosome rearrangement that runs in your personal or family history. You may wish to talk to your provider about whether this test is right for you.

Carrier screening:

This test is offered to all patients at the clinic. It assesses for genetic conditions that you may carry and pass on to your children. For most of those conditions, both members in the reproductive pair need to carry the same genetic condition for their children to be at risk.

Chromosome analysis (karyotype):

This test is typically offered to patients who have experienced multiple pregnancy losses or who have infertility indications that may suggest an underlying chromosome difference.

Some genetic tests will involve a blood or saliva sample, while others will require a biopsy to sample part of the embryo. Genetic screenings that require samples from embryos do include additional risk to the embryos.

Related Information

How to talk with family about genetic counseling

FAQ's about genetic counseling and testing

Genetics 101

Prenatal Genetic Testing and Counseling

Who should seek an appointment with a genetic counselor?

Genetic testing and counseling may be a good option for you if you meet any of the following criteria:

You or a first-degree relative (such as a parent, sibling, or child) have been diagnosed with a genetic condition.
You and your reproductive partner are “genetic carriers” for the same condition. This means that while neither of you have a particular medical condition, you both carry genes that could cause that condition to be passed to your child.
You and your partner have a common ancestor (for example, you are first cousins).

You are being tested for infertility and have received an abnormal genetic test (such as an extra or missing chromosome).
You have had a pregnancy loss that was found to have an extra or missing chromosome.
You have experienced multiple miscarriages.

You are interested in having embryos screened for genetic conditions as part of your IVF process.
You want to discuss your family history prior to becoming pregnant using IVF.
You wish to donate or receive embryos as part of the embryo donor program.

What to expect during your appointment with a genetic counselor

Our genetic counselors can help you make the best decisions related to your health and IVF goals. During your appointment, the counselor will:

Assess possible genetic risk for your future children, based on factors such as your age and family history
Discuss genetic testing options, including benefits and risks, based on your personal values and goals
Coordinate appropriate genetic testing, as needed
Explain genetic test results and what they mean for you
Offer emotional support and connect you with support groups, community organizations, and other resources
Connect you with reproductive endocrinologists and other providers who may help you with your fertility journey

Preparing for your appointment

The first thing you should do to prepare for your appointment with a genetic counselor is to gather as much information as possible about your family medical history. This includes parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, first cousins, and grandparents. If any of these relatives have had or currently have any medical or genetic conditions, the counselor will want to know.

Please bring copies of any prior genetic test results you have. If you need testing or additional testing, the counselor can help coordinate that after your initial consultation.