PGD or Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnostics is a set of procedures performed by medical professionals on an embryo. This medical procedure is considered a breakthrough in the field of medicine and was first developed in used back in the 80's. It was originally created in order to help diagnose embryos for any defects. Today, with the help of in vitro fertilisation, also known as IVF, it could now be used to help couples select the gender of their future baby. While it is considered as unethical or immoral by some groups, it can also provide a lot of benefits. It has been tried by a lot of couples already and the probability for success is very high as compared to other types of sex selection processes and techniques. In fact, it is even very close to generating a hundred percent success rate.
So how does PGD really work in making gender selection possible? First of all, IVF or other assisted reproductive technology processes should be done in order to produce embryos. Embryos are then examined by a medical expert to see if there are any defects or abnormalities. Healthy embryos of a specific gender are then gathered in order to be implanted at the uterus of the soon-to-be mother. At this stage, PGD can help couples prevent having unhealthy children by not using embryos which are at risk. After the implantation of the embryo, natural conception process occurs. Depending on the couple's preference, other healthy embryos could be saved to be used in the future.
Since embryos that can have genetic disorders are not used, this process is considered by many as very important. The success rate of bearing a baby of a specific gender is very high so it can help a lot of couples who have several female children to finally have a male child or vice versa. On the other hand, PGD is also considered as an unethical procedure especially on the part wherein the other embryos which are not implanted could be discarded if the couple decides to do so. It is a very sensitive issue since there are a lot of groups which considers embryos as human life already so it can be equated to abortion. Gender selection in itself can also be a cause of major problems in the future. According to several studies, it can cause gender imbalance later on which can greatly affect the society.
For couples who are planning to undergo this procedure, they must understand all the advantages and disadvantages that come along if PGD is used for gender selection. Another major factor that needs to be considered is that this process usually costs a lot so it is not ideal for those who have financial concerns. Depending on several factors, the complete process could cost up to 20,000 US dollars. It involves meticulous processes which are only done by a few medical experts and it involves the use of hi-tech equipments thus the high price tag. PGD for sex selection is also not allowed in some countries because of ethical reasons and social problems that it can cause.
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