Genetic Tests
Genetic testing can feel confusing because different tests look at different parts of our DNA and answer very different questions.
A karyotype looks at your chromosomes — the large packages of DNA that contain many genes. It can identify differences in chromosome number or structure, such as an extra or missing chromosome or a balanced translocation.
Carrier screening looks more closely at specific genes to see whether you carry a genetic change that could potentially be passed on to a child.
A simple way to think about it is: a karyotype checks the books on the shelf, while carrier screening looks at selected sentences inside those books. Neither test replaces the other, and which testing is appropriate depends on your individual history and fertility journey.
A simplified explainer of genetic tests in fertility treatment - karyotypes and carrier screening.
