Fertulity IVF
Fertulity IVF

Karyotype  The Importance of Chromosomal Testing in Fertility

What Is a Karyotype?

Exploring the causes of infertility requires precision, empathy, and a deeper analysis beyond the obvious. The karyotype, also known as chromosomal testing, is one of the most essential genetic examinations when pregnancy is delayed or repeatedly interrupted. At FertUlity, we utilize the science of genetic biology to provide answers and solutions.

A karyotype is a laboratory analysis that examines the number and structure of a person’s chromosomes. Through this test, we can detect chromosomal abnormalities—such as deletions, translocations, or additions of genetic material—which may not have any external symptoms but can affect fertility or cause miscarriages.The test is performed via a blood draw and analysis of white blood cells in the lab, and it applies to both women and men. It is especially useful and recommended in cases of:
Recurrent miscarriages
Unexplained infertility
Failed IVF attempts
Family history of genetic disorders

Why Chromosomal Testing Is Important

Many couples show no apparent problems, but may carry balanced chromosomal abnormalities (e.g., translocation) that lead to embryos with issues — embryos that either fail to implant or result in miscarriage at an early stage.The karyotype reveals these mutations and opens the path to a targeted and personalized strategy:
Adjusting the next therapeutic steps
Possible recommendation for preimplantation genetic testing (PGT-A)
Protection from repeated failed attempts

What the Karyotyping Procedure Involves

Karyotype testing is simple and performed via a blood draw. The sample is then sent to a specialized genetic laboratory for analysis. The analysis takes several days and involves studying cells during their division phase so the chromosomes can be clearly viewed under the microscope.The karyotype visualizes the 46 chromosomes (23 pairs) of the human genome, allowing the specialist to identify any potential numerical or structural abnormalities that may hinder embryo implantation or successful pregnancy completion.

What It Means If a Chromosomal Abnormality Is Found

Diagnosing a chromosomal abnormality—whether in one of the parents or in the embryo itself—does not necessarily mean that pregnancy is impossible. On the contrary, it is a valuable diagnostic finding that allows us to accurately design the most appropriate assisted reproduction strategy.

For example, if a balanced translocation is identified in one parent (i.e., a rearrangement of genetic material without loss), it may be causing miscarriages due to unbalanced forms passed on to embryos. This often explains failed pregnancies or unsuccessful IVF attempts.

This information allows us to apply preimplantation genetic testing (PGT-A) or PGT-SR (specifically for translocations), selecting only embryos that carry normal chromosomal material.
As a result:
The risk of miscarriage is significantly reduced
The chances of a successful pregnancy increase
Psychological and physical strain from repeated failed attempts is avoided
Even in more severe cases, where numerical chromosomal abnormalities such as Turner syndrome or trisomies are detected, alternative solutions such as gamete donation are available. Prevention through diagnosis is power, and chromosomal analysis is one of our strongest tools to achieve a healthy and safe pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Karyotype

Is karyotyping painful?

No, it’s just a simple blood draw.

When should I undergo chromosomal testing?

Karyotyping is recommended when there are indications of a chromosomal cause for infertility or repeated miscarriages. Specifically:
When a couple has experienced 2 or more miscarriages without an obvious cause
After repeated failed IVF attempts
When there is a strong family history of genetic disorders
In cases of severe male infertility (e.g., oligospermia or asthenospermia)

Can the karyotype reveal mutations that cause genetic syndromes?

Yes. Karyotyping detects macroscopic chromosomal abnormalities — that is, alterations in the number or structure of chromosomes — that may be linked to genetic syndromes. Examples include trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), monosomy X (Turner syndrome), XXY (Klinefelter syndrome), and translocations (swaps of material between chromosomes).In some cases, supplementary molecular tests like FISH or NGS may be required for a more precise mapping of microdeletions or finer mutations.

Is it necessary for both partners to be tested?

In most cases, yes. The couple’s karyotype (both male and female) is necessary because both may be carriers of balanced translocations or other chromosomal anomalies — even without any physical or reproductive symptoms.Analyzing the genetic material from both partners offers a complete picture of the couple’s genetic profile, enables proper family planning, and avoids repeated errors or failed attempts.

Our Doctors

In an era where fertility requires knowledge, care, and substantial guidance, FertUlity is not an impersonal clinic. It is two people who look you in the eye and accompany you step by step on the journey you dream of.

Dr. Chrysostomos (Makis) Papadopoulos Obstetrician – Gynecologist, MD, PhDc, MIC I

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Dr. Chrysostomos Papadopoulos - Specialist in Infertility, Endocrinology & Menopause in Athens

Dr. Maria Oikonomou Obstetrician – Gynecologist

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FertulityThrough the Words of our Parents

100% genuine, public Google reviews.
Because every fertility journey begins with honesty and trust.
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ΜΑΡΙΑ ΧΡΟΝΗ profile picture
Μαρια
26 days ago
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The word "thank you" to Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is too small to describe the gratitude we feel for this man. I am pregnant after IVF, having succeeded on the first attempt, and we owe this exclusively to our doctor. First Contact & Communication: From the very first contact, he won us over with his kindness, enthusiasm and willingness to dedicate as much time as we needed. Willing to explain everything in every detail, he solved every question we had in depth — not even a professor to students would analyze them with such patience and contagiousness! Scientific Training: He is an excellent scientist, with deep knowledge of the subject, a perfectionist and focused professional who leaves absolutely nothing to chance. He designed the right treatment for us, solving every problem down to the last detail, making us feel that whatever problem arises, it is certain that it will be solved. HUMANITY & SUPPORT: The most important thing, however, is his humanity. Communication with him was Immediate and he always had as much time as you needed on the phone to solve every question. He showed a deep, real interest, embracing us not just as a doctor, but as if he were our brother. We highly recommend him to every couple starting this journey. He deserves blind trust! We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the greatest miracle of our lives!

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Alexandra Tzotzi profile picture
Alexandra
52 days ago
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I don't often write reviews, but I feel that Mr. Makis truly deserves it. From the very first moment, he made me feel safe and confident. He listened carefully to what was on my mind, answered every question I had, and explained everything in a simple way, always based on scientific data. Many times, he even sent me relevant scientific studies so that I could better understand why he was suggesting a particular approach. But what stood out to me the most was that he didn't stop at the appointment. He followed up, was genuinely interested in my progress, and was available when I needed him. This is something you rarely encounter. Fortunately, he returned to Greece. He is one of the few doctors who, beyond their knowledge, remain above all human beings. He makes you feel like he sees you as a person and not as just another incident.

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MATINA NIORA profile picture
Matina
69 days ago
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A big thank you to Dr. Makis Papadopoulos who supported us from day one, who checked every little detail, who explained to us every move-step, every test, every medication for the reason we were doing it and what we would achieve. With incredible experience, knowledge, a lot of patience (because we had two other failed attempts with another doctor) and trust, within 8 months he adapted the protocols for our case and we achieved the positive result and we hold in our arms a priceless diamond. Above all, a rare person, calm and always available to listen to our concerns and reassure us. I highly recommend him!

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Eva T profile picture
Eva
93 days ago
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Thanks to Dr Makis Papadopoulos, I am now holding my two beautiful babies in my arms! He is a true expert. Professional with a human centric approach, friendly and empathetic, always available to answer our (many many) questions. I trust Dr Makis blindly and, honestly, I cannot recommend him enough!
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Ivy Di profile picture
Ivy
100 days ago
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My experience with Dr. Makis took me from a clinical stagnation to an incredible breakthrough, highly recommend Dr. Makis! Navigating the exhausting world of IVF, you know how devastating it is to watch your protocol dosages go up while your results go down. After three intense, high-dosage cycles with a previous clinic, I was left feeling incredibly discouraged. Despite escalating medications and growth hormones, my blastocyst yield was dwindling, culminating in a heartbreaking round with zero blastocysts. I knew I needed a doctor who didn't just follow a standard script, but who truly understood the nuances of egg quality and customized protocols. That is when I found Dr. Makis. Dr. Makis completely revolutionized my treatment plan. Instead of just pushing maximum dosages, he took a highly strategic, tailored approach. The result? Quality over pure protocol size. While my previous doctors kept increasing the medication dosages (which yielded fewer or zero blastocysts), Dr. Makis completely changed the strategy. He lowered the heavy stimulation, introduced smart egg-quality support (like melatonin), changed the protocol style entirely, and achieved a 700% increase in blastocysts compared to my best previous rounds. Beyond the incredible results, Dr. Makis brings a level of expertise, precision, and reassuring care that is rare to find. He looks at you as an individual, not a statistic, and knows exactly how to pivot when traditional routes fail. If you are looking for a specialist who can turn a difficult prognosis into an overwhelming success, look no further than Dr. Makis. I am incredibly grateful for his care.
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Olga Patsaoura profile picture
Olga
111 days ago
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Dr. Makis Papadopoulos was excellent, professional, and very reassuring throughout the entire process. Thanks to his expertise and guidance, we were able to identify the issue early and take the appropriate steps from the beginning. He took the time to explain everything clearly, answered all our questions with patience, and made us feel comfortable and confident throughout our journey. We truly appreciated his caring approach, professionalism, and dedication. Highly recommended!
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Euaggelia Kt profile picture
Euaggelia
122 days ago
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Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is an excellent scientist and above all a rare person! He is an approachable and smiling doctor, with excellent medical knowledge, who from the first moment I met him made me feel comfortable and trust him completely, answering every question I had with patience and documenting every answer with scientific studies and articles! The most important thing, however, is that Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is always there on the other end of the line to listen to you and reassure you without a trace of haste, a doctor who truly cares and makes you feel like he is your own person! Makis, thank you very much for everything!!! I am very lucky to have met you!

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Anastasia Koumi profile picture
Anastasia
129 days ago
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Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is an excellent scientist with a human-centered interest. Our collaboration was excellent from the very beginning and he made me feel confident and secure by explaining every step of the process in great detail. I highly recommend him!

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Fay Zervou profile picture
Fay
131 days ago
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Dr Makis Papadopoulos is very professional, caring and attentive. Very thorough in explaining the whole process throughout every step. Thank you! Highly recommended!!
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Christina Jani profile picture
Christina
134 days ago
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I would like to share my experience with Dr. Makis Papadopoulos, an outstanding gynecologist and scientist. We first connected in the summer of 2024, while he was based in Germany, through a mutual acquaintance, following a particularly challenging period for us. Prior to meeting him, we had gone through repeated unsuccessful attempts of stimulation and fertilization with other gynecologists. Unfortunately, those approaches relied largely on standardized protocols, without sufficient personalization to address the specific needs of my case. From the very beginning, Dr. Makis stood out for his human-centered approach and his willingness to dedicate time to truly understand our situation in depth. With strong, up-to-date scientific knowledge, he approaches every case holistically, focusing on individualized treatment and adapting protocols to the patient's unique needs. Throughout our collaboration, which now spans approximately two years (with a few breaks on our side), he has consistently been available, supportive, and clear in his guidance. He inspired confidence and helped us stay positive even during difficult phases of the journey. Beyond his scientific expertise, what truly sets him apart is his genuine care for the person behind each case: his empathy, honesty, and continuous effort to achieve the best possible outcome. My husband and I are deeply grateful for his support and guidance, and we now feel ready and optimistic to move forward to the next final stage. We highly recommend him to anyone seeking a gynecologist with true expertise, professionalism, and compassion. I would like to share my experience with Dr. Makis Papadopoulos, an excellent gynecologist and scientist. We met in the summer of 2024, when he was in Germany, through a mutual acquaintance, after a particularly demanding period for us. Before meeting him, we had gone through repeated failed attempts at stimulation and fertilization with other gynecologists. Unfortunately, the approaches that had been followed were mainly based on standardized protocols, without the necessary individualization to the specifics of my case. From the beginning, Dr. Makis stood out for his human approach and his willingness to spend time to understand our case in depth. With modern knowledge and scientific training, he approaches each issue multidimensionally, emphasizing the individualization of treatment and adapting the protocols to the real needs of the patient. During our collaboration, which now spans about two years (with short breaks on our part), he was always available, supportive and clear in his guidance. He inspired confidence in us and helped us remain optimistic even in difficult phases. In addition to his scientific competence, what sets him apart is his genuine interest in the person behind each case: his empathy, his honesty and his constant effort to achieve the best possible outcome. My husband and I thank him warmly for his support and guidance and we now feel ready and optimistic to move on to the next final stage. We highly recommend him to anyone looking for a gynecologist with real knowledge, professionalism and humanity.

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Faidra Rosmaraki profile picture
Faidra
135 days ago
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Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is an excellent gynecologist and above all an excellent person! I truly thank him for his support and care during the egg freezing process. Although my case was particularly demanding, he stood by me with patience, knowledge, great experience and real interest. Our communication was direct and human, while his availability at the many appointments made me feel safe at every step. The protocols were designed specifically for me, aiming for the best possible result, while also taking into account the cost of the medications. I recommend him with all my heart to every woman who wants to trust someone for something so important and sensitive for her.

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Iliana Triantafillou profile picture
Iliana
137 days ago
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I highly recommend Dr. Makis, he is an incredible specialist. My journey was far from easy, encountering several challenges that made the process feel overwhelming at times. ​What sets him apart is his willingness to go beyond standard procedures. He developed a specialized, custom protocol, tailored to my situation, which ultimately made all the difference. Beyond his technical expertise, his calm and clear communication kept me grounded throughout the process. I am so grateful for his persistence and high level of care!

Why choose FertUlity?

Because every fertility journey deserves the right support. At FertUlity, we provide science-based fertility care with a human approach. We support every path, from fertility assessment and preservation to modern assisted reproduction.

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