MicroSort Method

MicroSort Technology in IVF and Gender Selection

For couples who face challenges in conceiving naturally or carry a high risk of transmitting genetic disorders, reproductive medicine continues to offer groundbreaking solutions. One of these advanced techniques is the MicroSort method, which is primarily utilized for sperm sorting and gender selection.

How Does MicroSort Work?

The biological determination of a baby’s gender depends on whether the egg is fertilized by an X (female) or Y (male) chromosome-carrying sperm. MicroSort technology relies on a fundamental structural difference: X chromosomes contain approximately 2.8% more DNA than Y chromosomes.

Using a modified Flow Cytometry device, sperm cells are stained and passed through a specialized laser. This system identifies the DNA volume difference and sorts the sperm into X and Y enriched samples. The purity of the sorted sample is then verified using FISH (Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization), where X-carrying sperm glow pink/red and Y-carrying sperm glow green under a fluorescence microscope.

Accuracy and Success Rates

While MicroSort is a powerful tool for shifting the odds, it is important to note that it does not provide a 100% guarantee on its own.

• For Female Gender: Approximately 90% success rate.

• For Male Gender: Approximately 80% success rate.

For couples seeking 100% accuracy, we recommend combining MicroSort with PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Testing). In this combined approach, MicroSort selects the desired sperm for fertilization, and once embryos develop, PGT confirms the gender and genetic health with absolute certainty before the transfer.

MicroSort vs. PGT: Which Should You Choose?

Clinical Applications and Advantages

• IUI (Artificial Insemination): MicroSort can be applied during a standard insemination cycle, offering a non-invasive way to increase the probability of a specific gender.

• IVF & ICSI: When used during IVF, it ensures that the embryologist has a higher concentration of the desired gender to work with, increasing the number of healthy embryos available for transfer.

• Family Balancing: It is frequently preferred by international patients for personal family planning.

• Prevention of Genetic Diseases: Crucial for avoiding X-linked hereditary conditions such as Hemophilia or Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

At our center, Dr. Mürüde Çakartaş Dağdelen and our expert team utilize these advanced technologies to help you achieve your goal of a healthy family with the highest possible precision.

How is the MicroSort Method Performed?

The MicroSort procedure can be integrated into three different fertility treatments depending on the couple’s needs and desired success rate:

1. Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

In this method, the woman’s natural menstrual cycle is closely monitored. At the time of ovulation, sperm cells previously sorted via MicroSort are placed directly into the uterus. While the procedure follows standard IUI protocols, the use of sorted sperm shifts the gender probability.

• Success Note: Pregnancy rates are highly dependent on maternal age.

2. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

As part of an IVF cycle, hormone medications are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Once the eggs reach maturity, they are retrieved and fertilized using MicroSort-enriched sperm.

• Success Note: Because ICSI is a more advanced laboratory technique, the pregnancy success rate is significantly higher than IUI.

3. ICSI Combined with PGT (The Gold Standard)

This is the most comprehensive approach. Following egg retrieval and fertilization with MicroSort sperm, the resulting embryos are screened using Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT). This allows for the evaluation of both gender and chromosomal health (e.g., Down Syndrome).

• Success Note: The probability of having a healthy baby of the desired gender increases to 99.9%.

Gender Selection and Success Rates

MicroSort utilizes Flow Cytometry to sort sperm based on DNA content, significantly increasing the odds of conceiving a child of a specific gender.

Accuracy by Target Gender:

Note: Success rates for conceiving a girl are statistically higher due to the distinct DNA volume of the X chromosome.

Indications and Legal Framework

When is MicroSort Recommended?

• Genetic Risk Mitigation: To avoid X-linked hereditary disorders.

• Family Balancing: For couples who already have multiple children of the same gender and wish for a balanced family.

Legal and Ethical Status

In Turkey, gender selection is strictly regulated and permitted primarily for medical necessity (to prevent genetic diseases). For international patients, the legal framework varies by country, and each case is evaluated according to its specific clinical requirements.

MicroSort vs. PGD: Key Differences

Clinical Strategy: MicroSort acts as a “pre-selection” tool, while PGD provides “final confirmation.” Using both in tandem offers the highest clinical precision available in modern reproductive medicine.