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If you have a family member with schizophrenia, it’s natural to worry about what that might mean for your future children. Many couples face this exact concern when mental illness runs in the family. It’s an emotional question with a complex scientific backdrop – you may feel fear or guilt, yet also hope knowing there are ways to take control. Schizophrenia can run in families, but it’s not as simple as one gene = one outcome. The good news is that modern reproductive genetics, including advanced testing like Orchid’s whole genome preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), offers new ways to assess and even mitigate this risk. For example, Orchid’s whole-genome PGT can now screen over 99% of an embryo’s DNA for genetic risk factors – far more than traditional tests that look at less than 1% (Questions Answered about Screening Embryos for Genetic Predisposition to Chronic Diseases).

Understanding Genetic Risk

Schizophrenia does have a genetic component, but it’s complicated. Having a family member with the disorder does increase risk – for instance, someone with a parent or sibling who has schizophrenia has roughly a 10% chance of developing the illness themselves, compared to about a 1% risk in the general population (Schizophrenia). In other words, a family history of schizophrenia means your own odds (and potentially your child’s odds) are higher than average. However, it’s equally important to remember that higher risk is not a guarantee. Many people with an affected family member never develop schizophrenia, and vice versa.

Scientists now know that schizophrenia is polygenic, meaning it’s influenced by many different genes rather than a single “schizophrenia gene.” Twin studies estimate the illness is about 65–80% heritable, underscoring a strong genetic influence (Schizophrenia Whitepaper). Heritability is a statistical concept that describes the extent to which genetic factors explain these risk variations between people in a specific population. But those genetic risk factors are spread across the genome – each on its own  plays a small part and its the cumulative effect that’s important. Environment and life experience also play a role in schizophrenia risk (for example, childhood trauma or certain substance use can contribute) (The ultimate guide to schizophrenia). In short, genes set the stage, but environment can ultimately be what tips the scales. This complexity is why researchers developed tools like polygenic risk scores (PRS) to quantify someone’s overall genetic predisposition. A PRS aggregates the effects of thousands of genetic variants into one score. Orchid’s guides explain that these scores are typically composed of tens of thousands to over a million genetic markers, each contributing a bit to the risk (Questions Answered about Screening Embryos for Genetic Predisposition to Chronic Diseases). In the context of schizophrenia, a PRS tells you where someone (or an embryo) falls on the spectrum of genetic risk for the disorder seen in the general population. It’s not a crystal ball, but it provides actionable insight into how high or low the inherited level of risk is.

Options for Couples Planning a Family

So what can you do with this knowledge when planning your family? One option for those with serious genetic concerns is to pursue IVF (in vitro fertilization) with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). In plain terms, this means creating embryos via IVF and then testing their DNA before deciding which one to implant. Traditionally, PGT was used to screen for chromosomal abnormalities or single-gene diseases. Now, advances in technology have made it possible to screen embryos for polygenic disease risk as well. This is a game-changer for families worried about conditions like schizophrenia. It allows you to select an embryo with a lower genetic predisposition to schizophrenia and other diseases.

Orchid’s whole-genome PGT is a prime example of how far this science has come. Unlike traditional PGT techniques that examine only a small portion of the genome, Orchid’s embryo screening analyzes over 99% of the embryo’s DNA (Questions Answered about Screening Embryos for Genetic Predisposition to Chronic Diseases). This broader and more detailed approach means it can assess risk for many complex conditions that traditional tests would miss – including psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia. With Orchid’s screening, you receive a report on each embryo’s polygenic risk score for schizophrenia (and other conditions), so you can identify which embryo has the lowest genetic risk. As Orchid’s experts explain, using embryo scoring empowers you to prioritize the embryo with the lowest schizophrenia risk and potentially reduce your child’s risk of developing the disorder (The ultimate guide to schizophrenia). For example, selecting the lowest-risk embryo out of a group of three could lower the relative risk of schizophrenia for that child by around 38% (Questions Answered about Screening Embryos for Genetic Predisposition to Chronic Diseases). That’s a significant reduction in risk – essentially stacking the odds in your favor before pregnancy even begins.

Of course, with complex conditions like schizophrenia, genetics is never the whole story. While not all genetic risk can be eliminated, there are external factors that parents can address as well. By combining thoughtful embryo selection with a loving, stable environment, you are doing everything in your power to help your future child lead a healthy life. Genes are one piece of the puzzle, but they are not destiny. The goal of tools like Orchid’s PGT is to give you as much control as possible over that genetic piece, so you can move forward with greater confidence and peace of mind.

Taking the Next Steps

If you’re considering IVF and genetic testing due to a sibling with schizophrenia, it’s wise to seek guidance and support. Start by talking to a genetic counselor or fertility specialist about your family history. They can help you understand your personal risk and explain the options available. Every family’s situation is unique, so professional guidance will ensure you’re making the best-informed decision for yours.

It’s also helpful to lean on resources and experts who specialize in reproductive genetics. Orchid is one such resource that offers advanced testing and personalized support for prospective parents. Orchid’s Whole Genome Embryo Report is an advanced genetic screening service designed to help you mitigate predispositions to  conditions that runs in your family (Schizophrenia Whitepaper). This means if schizophrenia (or other complex conditions) is in your family, Orchid’s test can analyze your embryos’ genomes and identify which embryo has the lowest genetic risk. Orchid even offers a Couple Report (a preconception genetic test) that not only provides insight into your own genetic risk, but also estimates your future child’s genetic risk for various diseases before you ever do IVF. With services like these, you get a comprehensive look at the genetic picture and expert guidance on next steps.

As you navigate this journey, remember that information is empowering. Take advantage of Orchid’s guides and educational resources on topics like schizophrenia and genetic risk – they can answer common questions and ease your worries with real data. And when you’re ready, consider scheduling a consultation with Orchid’s team or your fertility clinic’s genetic counselor. You don’t have to go through this process alone. With the right knowledge and support, you can make informed choices for your family and move forward with confidence toward a healthy future for your kids.