Pre-Implantation Genetics
You and your partner will need to complete a genetic history form. This information will need to be returned to us before we can begin the matching process. In this form you will provide physical characteristics (height, weight, hair and eye colors, and blood type) and genetic or medical history for both partners.
Donors are matched with these characteristics as closely as possible. We also require that both partners have screening lab work obtained prior to beginning a cycle.
The lab work required is:
- Female partner lab work: HIV, hepatitis B antigen, hepatitis C core antibody, VDRL (STS), rubella, and blood type
- Male partner lab work: HIV, hepatitis B antigen, hepatitis C core antibody, VDRL, and blood type
This lab work may be performed at Duke or by your primary care physician. The results must be current within one year and must be received by us prior to beginning a cycle.
We also recommend that the male partner perform a specialized semen evaluation called a semen profile. This will generally be scheduled for the same day as your initial recipient evaluation with Dr. Walmer.
Though expensive, the test provides us with important information regarding the ability of the sperm to fertilize oocytes and assists us in deciding whether or not to recommend intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) to assist with the fertilization of the oocytes.
