Treatment Overview
Holistic Embryo Genomic Screening combines state-of-the-art genetic analysis of embryos with comprehensive embryo evaluation (morphology, kinetics, genomics) to provide a full-spectrum view of embryo quality before transfer during an in–vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle. In Korea, fertility centres integrate advanced genomics (e.g., next-generation sequencing and whole genome amplification) with time-lapse embryo monitoring, artificial-intelligence (AI)-driven embryo grading and comprehensive genetic counselling.
This “holistic” approach means not only checking for chromosomal abnormalities (aneuploidy) or monogenic disorders, but also evaluating embryo development dynamics, morphology, and genomic integrity in one cohesive workflow. This allows for the selection of embryos that are genetically sound, developmentally optimal, and morphologically excellent—improving the chances of successful implantation and a healthy pregnancy.
Purpose & Benefits
The aim of Holistic Embryo Genomic Screening is to maximize the likelihood of a healthy live birth by integrating multiple disciplinary assessments.
Main benefits include:
- Improved implantation and live-birth rates by selecting embryos with high developmental potential and genomic integrity. e due to chromosomal issues; holistic screening catches these early.
- Comprehensive risk reduction: genetic, morphological and developmental factors are all assessed, giving more certainty than single-modality screening.
- Fewer IVF cycles and transfers: improved embryo selection means fewer wasted cycles, less emotional/financial burden.
- Support for single-embryo transfer strategy: with increased confidence in embryo quality, the risk of multiples is reduced.
- Tailored to patient needs: Couples with complex histories (genetic carriers, recurrent miscarriage, advanced maternal age) benefit from a more granular approach.
- Global standard of care: Korean clinics are known for high technological standards, making them an attractive option for international patients.
Ideal Candidates
Holistic Embryo Genomic Screening is particularly fitting for:
- Women aged 35 or older, where the risk of chromosomal errors in embryos increases.
- Couples with a history of recurrent miscarriage, repeated IVF failures, or implantation failures.
- Individuals or couples who are carriers of genetic mutations, chromosomal rearrangements, or monogenic disorders.
- Patients using donor eggs or sperm who want extra assurance of embryo integrity.
- Cancer survivors undergoing IVF and seeking the highest level of embryo screening.
- International or medical-tourism patients who wish to access advanced fertility technology in Korea.
Possible Risks & Limitations
While this approach is highly advanced, there are important considerations:
- Embryo biopsy risks: Though low, biopsying embryos (typically at the blastocyst stage) carries a slight risk of affecting embryo viability.
- Mosaicism: Embryos may have mixed normal and abnormal cell lines, complicating interpretation of genomic screening.
- No guarantee of success: Even with optimal embryos, implantation depends on other factors (uterine receptivity, maternal health).
- Emotional and ethical decision-making: Selecting or discarding embryos based on genomic and developmental criteria may raise ethical issues and emotional burden.
- Higher cost: Comprehensive screening (genomics + AI + extra monitoring) adds cost compared to standard IVF.
- Time delay: Some workflows require freezing embryos while waiting for genomic results before transfer.
Korean clinics mitigate these risks via highly experienced labs, strict QC protocols, genetic counseling and integrated care teams.
Techniques & Laboratory Methods
In Korean fertility laboratories offering holistic screening, the following techniques are commonly employed:
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and Whole Genome Amplification (WGA): enable detailed chromosomal and genetic screening of embryos (PGT-A, PGT-M, PGT-SR).
- Trophectoderm biopsy at blastocyst stage (day 5-6): sampling a few cells destined to become placenta, minimizing impact on embryo.
- Time-lapse embryo monitoring & AI-driven embryo ranking: integrating morphology and developmental kinetics to assess embryo quality dynamically.
- Comprehensive embryo culture to blastocyst stage: allows full development and better selection criteria.
- Integrated bioinformatics: combining genomic data, morphokinetics, and embryo viability scores to pick best embryo.
- Cryopreservation (vitrification): embryos are frozen while screening is underway or until optimal timing of transfer.
- Genetic counselling & reporting: patients receive full explanation of genomic findings, embryo ranking and transfer strategy.
Korean fertility centres are noted for lab infrastructure, rigorous standards and high throughput of genomic screening; for example, the CHA Fertility Center in Seoul lists PGT-A, PGT-SR and PGT-M in its services.
Recovery & Aftercare
Because the genomic screening is performed in the laboratory, the patient’s physical recovery is similar to a standard IVF cycle. Aftercare includes:
- Egg retrieval recovery: mild discomfort, resume normal activities within a short time.
- Freezing of embryos after biopsy while waiting for results (if applicable).
- Genetic counselling session when results are ready: explanation of embryos’ genomic status, discussion of options.
- Frozen embryo transfer scheduling: uterine preparation, hormone support, monitoring of implantation.
- Emotional & psychological support: particularly important given decisions relating to embryo selection.
- Long-term follow-up: any necessary prenatal genetic testing if indicated, and follow-up of embryo-derived pregnancy outcomes.
Korean clinics often offer multidisciplinary support including fertility specialists, geneticists, psychologists and international patient coordination.
Results & Longevity
Korean fertility centres offering holistic embryo genomic screening report strong outcomes:
- Embryos selected with genetic screening tend to have higher implantation rates and lower rates of miscarriage.
- Genetic screening helps optimise single embryo transfers while maintaining high success, improving neonatal safety.
- Long-term outcomes indicate healthy infants born following PGT programmes, though each clinic may have its own data set.
- The holistic approach supports better cumulative live birth rates per retrieval rather than relying on repeated transfers of untested embryos.
Treatment Process in Korea
Here is a typical workflow in Korean fertility centres offering holistic embryo genomic screening:
- Consultation & Assessment
- Review couple’s medical, fertility and genetic history.
- Discussion of candidate suitability for holistic screening.
- Ovarian Stimulation & Egg Retrieval
- Controlled ovarian stimulation tailored to patient, followed by retrieval of multiple oocytes.
- Fertilisation (IVF or ICSI) & Embryo Culture
- Eggs fertilised; embryos cultured to blastocyst stage with time-lapse monitoring.
- Embryo Biopsy & Vitrification
- On day 5-6, biopsy of trophectoderm cells; embryos typically vitrified while awaiting genomic analysis.
- Genomic Screening & Data Integration
- Cells undergo genetic testing (NGS/WGA) for aneuploidy, monogenic disorders, and structural rearrangements.
- Embryo development data, morphology and genetics integrated to rank embryos.
- Genetic Counselling & Embryo Selection
- Results reviewed with couple and fertility/genetics team; best embryo(s) selected for transfer.
- Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
- Uterine preparation and transfer of selected embryo; post-transfer monitoring and support.
- Follow-up & Support
- Pregnancy monitoring, prenatal testing if needed, psychological and fertility support continuing.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Korea offers highly developed genomic and embryology laboratories, with swift turnaround times and advanced AI integration.
- Fertility centres in Korea adhere to stringent quality and regulatory standards, ensuring sample integrity and patient safety.
- Many clinics cater to international patients, offering English-friendly services, transparent pricing, and integrated care.
- Cost-to-quality ratio is competitive internationally.
- Ongoing research and adoption of new genomic/AI technologies keep Korea at the cutting edge of fertility medicine.
Cost Range
Costs vary depending on the clinic, number of embryos analysed, extent of screening and whether international patient services are included. Typical estimates for Korea:
- Holistic embryo genomic screening add-on (genomics + AI ranking + extra monitoring): ~ USD 4,000 – 7,000.
- Full IVF + holistic screening package: USD 8,000 – 14,000 depending on scope.
- Genetic counselling, embryo storage and transfer are additional.
- Cryopreservation/annual storage: ~ USD 300 – 800 per annum.
(These are approximate figures; actual cost depends on clinic, patient’s medical background and number of embryos.)
Popular Clinics in Korea
- CHA Fertility Center (Seoul/Bundang): Offers integrated PGT-A, PGT-M, PGT-SR plus embryo genomics and AI-driven selection.
- Hamchoon Women’s Clinic (Seoul): Known for combined infertility and genetic testing services.
- MizMedi Women’s Hospital: Large ART centre with advanced embryology and genetics labs.
- Maria Fertility Hospital: Recognised for genetic/embryo screening packages for domestic and international patients.
- Seoul-based international fertility hubs: Many Korean clinics specialize in English-speaking international clientele with full genomic screening services.
