International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

A new egg screening technique is able to predict genetic problems and could help boost the success rate of IVF, according to fertility experts.

Attendees at the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), which is being held in Rome, Italy, were told that the technique works by testing a by-product of the egg, the polar body, which enables doctors to assess whether it has too many or too little chromosomes.

Latest findings highlighted that it is a proven method for picking up genetic problems, however, it is not yet clear if the method increases pregnancy rates and further testing is needed.

Professor Joep Geraedts, who led the ESHRE taskforce on analysing the test, told the BBC: "I hope it will improve pregnancy rates but I can't say that - that's why we need another trial."

Earlier this week, it was reported that women over the age of 40 in the UK may get free IVF on the NHS to avoid age discrimination.

Posted by Alexandra George