What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)?
Preimplantation Genetic Testing is a reproductive technology used along with an IVF cycle to increase the potential for a successful pregnancy and delivery of a healthy child.
PGT is a genetic test on cells extracted from 5-6 days old embryos ( called blastocyst stage ), to help select the best embryo(s) in order to achieve higher pregnancy rate , reduce the miscarriage rate and also to avoid a genetic disease in the baby if either one or both parents are known to be a carrier of a specific genetic disease.
Types of PGT
What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies (PGT-A)?
PGT-A ( A=aneuploidy, previously known as PGS) screens for all the 46 chromosomes in the embryo for any abnormalities in their numbers e.g Down’s Syndrome with additional Chromosome 21 or Turner’s Syndrome with absent chromosome X .
What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorder (PGT-M)?
PGT-M ( M= Monogenic, previously known as PGD) is to detect a specific disease in the embryo when there is a 25% – 50% chance to have a child affected with a specific genetic disease e.g Thalassemia. PGT-M can identify which embryo(s) are affected, unaffected, or a carrier (if applicable) for that disease before we transfer the embryo into the uterus for a pregnancy.
What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangement (PGT-SR)?
PGT-SR( SR = Structural rearrangement ) can identify which embryos have an abnormal amount of chromosomal material in cases such as translocation or deletion of a segment of chromosome which can result in unbalanced amount of genetic material resulting in recurrent miscarriages .
When Might PGT Be Considered?
PGT may be discussed in situations such as:
Advanced maternal age
Recurrent pregnancy loss
Previous IVF cycles without successful implantation
Known inherited genetic conditions in one or both partners
Structural chromosomal abnormalities
Severe male factor infertility
Each circumstance is assessed individually. In some cases, referral for genetic counselling may be recommended before proceeding.
Each circumstance is assessed individually. In some cases, referral for genetic
counselling may be recommended before proceeding.
What the PGT Process Involves
If PGT is incorporated into your IVF cycle:
01
Embryos are created through fertilisation in the laboratory
02
At the blastocyst stage, a small number of cells are biopsied
03
The sample is analysed in a specialised genetics laboratory
04
Results are reviewed before selecting an embryo for transfer
Because laboratory analysis requires time, embryo transfer is typically scheduled in a subsequent Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) cycle.
The scope of testing, as well as its limitations, will be explained clearly so you understand what the results can — and cannot — determine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does PGT improve pregnancy success rates?
PGT may assist in identifying embryos without certain chromosomal abnormalities. However, overall outcomes depend on multiple factors including maternal age, embryo quality, and overall reproductive health.
Is embryo biopsy safe?
Embryo biopsy is performed by trained embryologists under controlled laboratory conditions. Potential risks and limitations will be discussed prior to treatment.
Will all embryos be suitable for testing?
Suitability depends on embryo development and laboratory evaluation at the appropriate stage.
Is PGT required for all IVF cycles?
No. PGT is recommended only when there is a specific medical indication or when additional genetic information may assist treatment planning.
Discuss Your Options
If you would like to explore whether PGT may be appropriate within your IVF treatment, we invite you to speak with our team.
If you would like to explore whether PGT may be appropriate
within your IVF treatment, we invite you to speak with our team.
A consultation allows time to review your medical history, clarify expectations,
and consider next steps in a structured and informed manner.
A consultation allows time to review your medical history, clarify expectations, and consider next steps in a structured and informed manner.
Important Notice
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and does not replace medical consultation. Treatment suitability and outcomes vary by individual. A consultation with a registered medical practitioner is required before initiating fertility treatment.