Many couples undergoing fertility treatments have questions about the possibility of choosing their baby’s gender. Whether it’s for family balancing or to avoid inherited genetic conditions, IVF gender selection is a topic that often comes up during the IVF consultation.
Let’s explore how gender selection works, whether it’s legally and ethically allowed in Pakistan, and which IVF centers in Lahore provide this option.
What Is Gender Selection in IVF?
Gender selection, also known as sex selection, is the process of choosing the biological sex of an embryo before it is implanted in the uterus during IVF treatment. This is typically done through a method called Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), specifically PGT-A (Aneuploidy screening) or PGT-SR (Structural rearrangement), which can identify the sex chromosomes (XX for female, XY for male) along with other genetic traits.
Is Gender Selection Legal in Pakistan?
Yes, gender selection is allowed in Pakistan, primarily for:
- Medical reasons, such as avoiding sex-linked genetic disorders (e.g., hemophilia, muscular dystrophy)
- Family balancing, when couples already have children of one gender and desire the other
However, clinics are expected to follow ethical practices. Gender selection for non-medical reasons is often discouraged, and patient counseling is provided to ensure informed decisions.
Do Lahore IVF Clinics Offer Gender Selection?
Yes, several IVF clinics in Lahore offer gender selection as part of advanced fertility treatments. This service is typically available at well-established centers with in-house genetic labs.
Key Clinics That Offer Gender Selection in Lahore:
1. Australian Concept Infertility Medical Center Lahore
One of the most reputable IVF centers in Pakistan, Australian Concept infertility offers PGT-based gender selection as part of its advanced IVF services. With experienced embryologists and modern lab facilities, the center follows ethical guidelines and provides thorough counseling before starting treatment.
Why choose Australian concept infertility for gender selection?
- Experienced fertility specialists
- Internationally trained embryology team
- PGT services for accurate embryo screening
- Transparent policies and ethical practices
- Family balancing available upon request
2. Other Reputed IVF Clinics in Lahore
Some private IVF clinics in Lahore also offer gender selection using PGT technology. However, it’s important to choose a clinic that is:
- Licensed and regulated
- Equipped with a certified genetic lab
- Transparent about success rates and procedures
- Providing legal and ethical counseling
How Does the Gender Selection Process Work?
Here’s how gender selection is done during IVF:
- Ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval
The woman undergoes hormonal treatment to produce multiple eggs, which are then retrieved. - Fertilization and embryo development
Eggs are fertilized with sperm in a lab using conventional IVF or ICSI. - Embryo biopsy and PGT
On day 5 or 6, embryos reach the blastocyst stage. A few cells are carefully removed for genetic testing, including sex chromosome identification. - Gender selection
Based on test results, embryos of the desired gender are selected for transfer. - Embryo transfer
A healthy embryo of the chosen gender is transferred to the uterus, and the rest may be frozen for future use.
Success Rates and Considerations
The success rate of gender selection largely depends on:
- The woman’s age and egg quality
- Embryo health after PGT
- Experience of the fertility clinic
While gender selection using PGT is over 99% accurate, success still depends on embryo implantation and overall IVF outcomes.
Ethical Considerations in Gender Selection
While gender selection is medically and technically possible in Lahore, it’s essential to consider the ethical and cultural implications. Reputable IVF clinics—especially centers like Australian Concept Infertility approach gender selection with great care and responsibility. These clinics follow strict guidelines to ensure that the choice is made for valid medical reasons or family balancing, rather than cultural or societal pressures.
Fertility specialists at these centers also provide pre-treatment counseling to help couples understand the process, the risks, and the importance of making ethical decisions for the well-being of their future child and family.
Cost of Gender Selection with IVF in Lahore
Adding Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) for gender selection increases the overall cost of an IVF cycle.
Although this adds to the total expense, many couples see it as a worthwhile investment for the ability to plan their family confidently and safely especially in cases where gender-linked diseases are a concern.
Always ask your clinic for a complete cost breakdown, including:
- IVF cycle
- PGT testing
- Consultation fees
- Embryo freezing or additional services (if required)
Questions to Ask Before Choosing Gender Selection
If you’re considering gender selection during IVF, ask your clinic the following:
- Do you use PGT-A for gender identification?
- What is the accuracy rate of your testing?
- Are there additional risks or ethical concerns I should be aware of?
- What support or counseling is offered during this process?
- What are your success rates for gender-specific embryo transfers?
Getting clear answers will help you make an informed and confident decision.
Final Thoughts
Yes, Lahore IVF clinics do offer gender selection, especially those with advanced facilities like Australian Concept Infertility Medical Center. Whether you’re looking to balance your family or avoid a genetic condition, gender selection can be a safe and reliable option when done through a trusted clinic.
However, it’s important to approach the process responsibly, with clear intentions and guidance from experienced infertility specialist in Lahore. Always choose a clinic that prioritizes ethical standards, transparency, and patient care.
