Comprehensive Chromosomal Screening (CCS) is a method used to help us to analyze, select and transfer only the embryos that are normal, thereby increasing the likelihood of a pregnancy. During a cycle of IVF instead of transferring embryos immediately, a few cells from each blastocyst (an embryo which has developed for 5-6 days) are removed and sent for DNA testing. These tests will determine if the blastocysts have the normal number of Chromosomes (23 pairs) and if the chromosomes are structurally normal. The blastocysts are then frozen until the results are received from the testing facility. By selecting an embryo that is chromosomally normal it is likely to result in a full-term pregnancy and healthy baby.
When is it used?
Comprehensive Chromosomal Screening (CCS) is often suggested for couples who appear to be chromosomally normal yet have had repeated IVF failures or have experienced recurrent miscarriage. It may also be prescribed for women of advanced maternal age.
What to Expect:
As noted above, CCS takes place during an IVF treatment cycle. Once the eggs are retrieved and fertilized, the embryos develop into blastocysts (which takes approximately 5-6 days). A few cells (5 to 10) are then taken from each embryo and sent for DNA testing. The embryos are then frozen (vitrified) until the results have been received from the testing facility. Once your physician has been advised as to which embryos are “normal”, Oasis will arrange for you to have a frozen embryo transfer (FET).
Complications:
As with any IVF cycle, you can experience certain complications. These include infection, bleeding, OHSS, and stress. If you become pregnant after your frozen embryo transfer, there is the risk of an ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage or multiple pregnancy.
Success Rates:
Research studies have shown, that CCS can increase the chance of pregnancy by up to 70%.
