MythBusters of reproductive health: empowering informed decisions
Genetic testing, especially for parents-to-be, can sometimes feel overwhelming, leading to
uncertainty and questions. Yet, it’s one of the most powerful tools to help you and your
healthcare provider make informed choices. Unfortunately, misinformation spreads quickly
through social media and well-meaning friends or family. So, we have channelled our inner
MythBusters to debunk some common misconceptions about reproductive health and
genetic testing throughout the fertility and pregnancy journey.
Myth 1: Carrier screening is only needed if there’s a family history of a genetic
condition
Almost everyone carries one or more genetic changes, often without knowing it. We each
inherit one set of chromosomes from our mother, and one from our father. Recessive
conditions only occur when both copies of a gene are affected, meaning that two healthy
carriers can unknowingly pass on a serious genetic condition.
That’s why carrier screening is such a valuable tool: it helps uncover inherited genetic risks
and empowers couples to make informed reproductive choices, even if there’s no known
family history.
Myth Busted: Carrier screening is NOT only for those with a family history.
CarrierScreen: When starting a family, you no longer have to leave your genes up to
chance.
Myth 2: Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) tells me everything about my baby’s
health
NIPT is a safe, accurate screening test performed from 10 weeks of pregnancy. It analyses
fragments of placental DNA in the mother’s blood to screen for chromosomal conditions
such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), Patau syndrome
(Trisomy 13), and sex chromosome abnormalities. Some tests can also detect
microdeletions, single-gene conditions, and fetal Rhesus status.
However, no test can detect everything. There are over 6 000 known genetic disorders, and
TriScreen NIPT cannot identify conditions like autism, structural abnormalities, or
environmental effects such as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
Myth Busted: NIPT reveals a LOT – just not everything.
TriScreen NIPT: Providing peace of mind during pregnancy.
Myth 3: Miscarriages often result from something the pregnant person did
Most miscarriages occur due to factors beyond anyone’s control. While certain health
conditions (like diabetes or uterine abnormalities) can contribute, the most common cause is
chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo which are random errors that prevent normal
development.
Products of Conception Screening (POCScreen) analyses miscarriage tissue to identify
chromosomal abnormalities, providing answers, closure, and guidance for future
pregnancies.
Myth Busted: Miscarriages are NOT caused by something the pregnant person did.
POCScreen: Turning loss into insight.
Myth 4: Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can tell you everything about your
embryos created through IVF
PGT helps identify the healthiest embryos during IVF by screening for chromosomal
abnormalities before transfer. It increases the chances of a successful pregnancy and can
determine embryo sex.
There are three main types:
PGT-A: Detects chromosomal aneuploidies
PGT-SR: Detects structural rearrangements
PGT-M: Detects specific single-gene disorders (e.g. cystic fibrosis)
However, PGT cannot detect all abnormalities or environmental conditions.
Myth Busted: PGT can’t tell you everything, but it can help you choose the best embryos
for transfer.
PGT: Giving your IVF journey the best start.
Myth 5: If I’ve done PGT during IVF, I don’t need prenatal screening
Even after transferring a healthy embryo, prenatal screening remains essential. PGT is
performed on embryos at day five of development, and changes can still occur afterward.
Every pregnancy, natural or assisted, should include routine prenatal screening such as
NIPT.
Myth Busted: Every pregnancy needs prenatal screening, regardless of how it was
conceived.
PGT: Screen smart. Implant strong.
Myth 6: Endometrial health testing is necessary for everyone doing IVF
A healthy endometrium is crucial for successful implantation. Endometrial receptivity testing
identifies your unique window of implantation (WOI), the optimal time for embryo transfer,
which varies for about one in three women.
Additionally, endometrial microbiome testing can reveal imbalances that affect implantation.
While not required for all IVF patients, these tests are especially valuable for those who’ve
experienced repeated implantation failure or miscarriage.
Myth Busted: Endometrial health testing isn’t for everyone, but it’s a powerful tool for those
who need it.
Endometrial Health Testing: Optimise your IVF journey.
Myth 7: Stem cell banking is too expensive and not worth it
Collecting and storing your baby’s stem cells at birth is a quick, painless process that could
one day save their life. These cells can be used to treat over 80 diseases, including
leukaemia, lymphoma, and immune disorders.
Given the difficulty of finding a matching bone marrow donor (as low as 1 in 400 000 for
mixed-ethnicity individuals), storing your baby’s stem cells ensures immediate access to life-
saving treatment options.
Myth Busted: Stem cell banking is AFFORDABLE and absolutely worth it.
Netcells Stem Cell Banking: Invest in your baby’s future health.
Myth 8: I can only find out my baby’s gender in the second trimester
With the MiniMi Early Fetal Sex Test, you can learn your baby’s gender as early as 10 weeks
using just a maternal blood sample. The test detects the presence (or absence) of the Y
chromosome to determine sex – no need to wait for the anatomy scan or rely on old wives’
tales.
Myth Busted: You don’t have to wait until the second trimester.
MiniMi: Find out your baby’s gender early and plan with confidence.
Myth 9: Next Biosciences is the best partner to support you on your reproductive
journey
At Next Biosciences, we’re proud to offer comprehensive reproductive testing and support,
from fertility and genetic carrier screening to pregnancy and newborn care. Whether your
focus is family planning, infertility, maternal health, or your baby’s genetic well being, we’re
here every step of the way.
Myth Approved!
