Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Genetic Preimplantation?
A fertility doctor called a reproductive endocrinologist usually performs this procedure, treating hormone problems and infertility. The testing itself is done in a lab by trained genetics specialists. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Genetic preimplantation testing is a lab test on embryos created through in vitro fertilization, or IVF, in which eggs are taken from the ovary and mixed with sperm in a lab. The test checks samples for gene problems and wrong numbers of chromosomes. Only embryos that pass are placed into the womb.
Why a doctor might recommend it
A doctor may recommend this testing when a parent carries a gene for an inherited disease, such as cystic fibrosis or sickle cell disease. It can also help when a woman is older, since chromosome problems rise with age, or after repeated miscarriages or failed IVF cycles.
How to prepare
- Have blood tests to check hormone levels and screen for inherited conditions.
- Learn about your family health history and share it with your care team.
- Consider meeting with a genetic counselor, who explains inherited disease risks in plain language.
- Take fertility medicines exactly as prescribed to help the ovaries produce multiple eggs.
- Arrange time off work for the egg retrieval and embryo transfer visits.
What happens during it
Fertility medicines help the ovaries make several eggs, which are retrieved in a short procedure. The eggs are mixed with sperm, and embryos grow for five to six days. An embryologist removes a few cells from each embryo, and the lab tests them for gene or chromosome problems.
Recovery
The embryo transfer is quick, needs no sedation, and most people go home the same day. Mild cramping or bloating is common, and most return to normal activities within a day.
Risks and side effects
Fertility medicines can cause bloating, mood changes, and rarely ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, which makes the ovaries swollen and painful. Egg retrieval carries small risks of bleeding, infection, or cramping. The biopsy rarely harms the embryo, but results are sometimes unclear.
Who performs it
A reproductive endocrinologist performs the egg retrieval and embryo transfer. Embryologists do the lab work and biopsy. A genetics lab runs the testing, and a genetic counselor often helps explain the results.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor, paid a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, or a concierge doctor can be a steady contact point around fertility treatment. They can order early blood tests, review family health history, and refer you to a reproductive endocrinologist. They cannot perform IVF, but they can handle follow-up visits and coordinate care with your fertility team.
Common questions
Does the testing hurt?
The biopsy happens in the lab on the embryo, so the patient feels nothing from it. The egg retrieval is done with light sedation, and some cramping afterward is common.
Is this the same as editing genes?
No. The test only screens embryos; nothing about the embryo's genes is changed. Doctors simply choose which embryo to transfer.
How accurate are the results?
The tests are quite accurate, but no test is perfect. Sometimes results are unclear, and doctors may suggest extra testing during pregnancy.
How much does it cost?
Costs vary by clinic and testing type. IVF with genetic testing can cost many thousands of dollars, and insurance coverage differs. Ask the clinic for a full price estimate before starting.
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Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
