Author ORCID Identifier

0000-0001-8921-1813

Date of Graduation

5-2022

Document Type

Thesis (MS)

Program Affiliation

Genetic Counseling

Degree Name

Masters of Science (MS)

Advisor/Committee Chair

Aarti Ramdaney

Committee Member

Lauren Murphy

Committee Member

Sandra Darilek

Committee Member

Maureen Mork

Committee Member

Jennifer Czerwinski

Committee Member

Diana Racusin

Abstract

Currently, there is limited information about how conceiving through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) impact the decisions individuals make about prenatal genetic testing. This quantitative study aimed to examine the prenatal testing decisions made by pregnant individuals who conceived via IVF as well as to compare the prenatal testing decisions and motivations between those who had PGT-A and those who did not. An anonymous survey was distributed through online support forums and in clinical settings to eligible individuals. Overall, 230 complete responses were collected with 203 participants far enough along in pregnancy to make testing decisions. Of those, 80.3% only had a screening test, 3.5% only underwent a diagnostic test, 2.5% had a screening test and a diagnostic test, and 13.8% did not have any testing. There was no statistical difference between the testing options reportedly offered (p=0.565) or performed (p=0.816) by those in the PGT-A group (166/203) versus those in the non PGT-A group (64/203). Individuals in both groups commonly listed healthcare provider recommendations as well as results of previous ultrasounds or screening tests as influential factors in their testing decisions. Individuals who had PGT-A were more likely to cite insurance coverage (p=0.023), healthcare provider recommendation (p=0.012), assessing the risk of a genetic condition (p=0.019), and reducing anxiety (p=0.022) as important or very important factors in their decision to undergo a screening test. Thorough, patient-centered discussions are important to assess individual goals, values and risk thresholds.

Keywords

IVF, PGT-A, In vitro fertilization, prenatal testing decisions, prenatal testing motivations

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