PGT/PGS/PGT-A

Overview

For many individuals and couples undergoing fertility treatment, one of the biggest hopes is to achieve a healthy pregnancy and deliver a healthy baby. However, sometimes embryos may carry genetic or chromosomal abnormalities that can prevent implantation or lead to miscarriage.

Advances in reproductive medicine now allow doctors to screen embryos before pregnancy using PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Testing). This technology helps fertility specialists select embryos that have the correct number of chromosomes, increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy.

Tests such as PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy)—previously called PGS (Preimplantation Genetic Screening)—are widely used during In Vitro Fertilization cycles to evaluate embryo health before transfer.

At advanced fertility centers like Milann Fertility & Birthing hospital, genetic embryo screening plays an important role in improving IVF success rates and reducing the risk of genetic abnormalities. For many hopeful parents, this testing provides reassurance and confidence during their fertility journey.

What is PGT / PGS / PGT-A?

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a specialized laboratory test used during IVF to analyze the genetic health of embryos before they are transferred into the uterus.

The most commonly used form is:

• PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy): Checks whether embryos have the correct number of chromosomes.

Chromosomes carry genetic information, and having too many or too few chromosomes can prevent pregnancy or cause genetic disorders. Previously, this screening was called PGS (Preimplantation Genetic Screening).

PGT testing helps fertility specialists select embryos that are more likely to develop into healthy pregnancies.

• Down Syndrome: Caused by an extra chromosome 21.
• Turner Syndrome: A condition affecting females due to missing or incomplete X chromosome.
• Edwards Syndrome: Caused by an extra chromosome 18.

Why is PGT-A Testing Done?

Doctors recommend PGT-A genetic screening to improve the chances of successful pregnancy during IVF treatment.

• Repeated IVF Failures: Helps identify healthy embryos for transfer.
• Recurrent Miscarriages: Chromosomal abnormalities are a common cause.
• Advanced Maternal Age: Higher risk of chromosomal issues.
• Genetic Risk in Family History: Screening helps reduce inherited risks.
• Improving IVF Success Rates: Better embryo selection increases implantation chances.

Preparation for PGT-A Testing

Preparation for PGT testing is similar to preparation for a standard IVF cycle.

• Fertility Consultation: Medical history review and planning.
• Hormonal Tests: Blood tests to assess reproductive health.
• Ultrasound Scans: Monitoring ovarian function.
• Ovarian Stimulation Planning: Preparing for egg production.
• Genetic Counseling: Understanding the testing process and outcomes.

What is the Process of PGT-A Testing?

The PGT-A IVF process involves several carefully monitored steps.

1. Ovarian Stimulation: Hormones stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
2. Egg Retrieval: Eggs are collected through a minor procedure.
3. Fertilization: Eggs are fertilized using IVF or ICSI techniques.
4. Embryo Development: Embryos develop over 5–6 days.
5. Embryo Biopsy: A few cells are removed for testing without harming the embryo.
6. Genetic Analysis: Cells are analyzed for chromosomal abnormalities.
7. Embryo Freezing: Embryos are preserved during testing.
8. Embryo Transfer: A healthy embryo is transferred into the uterus.

Results / Post Procedure

After genetic testing, embryos are categorized based on chromosomal health.

• Euploid Embryos: Normal chromosome number.
• Aneuploid Embryos: Abnormal chromosome number.
• Mosaic Embryos: Mix of normal and abnormal cells.

Doctors usually recommend transferring euploid embryos, as they offer the highest chance of successful pregnancy.

What Are the Risks of PGT-A Testing?

PGT-A is considered safe, but some risks or limitations may exist.

• Embryo Damage: Rare risk during biopsy.
• Testing Limitations: Some results may require further interpretation.
• Cost Considerations: Adds to IVF treatment cost.
• Emotional Stress: Waiting for results can be challenging.

What You Can Expect from PGT-A Testing

Patients undergoing PGT-A embryo testing can expect:

• Genetic Analysis: Detailed embryo screening.
• Better Selection: Healthier embryos chosen for transfer.
• Reduced Risk: Lower chance of chromosomal abnormalities.
• Improved Success: Higher implantation rates.
• Informed Decisions: Greater confidence in treatment.

Benefits of PGT-A Testing

• Improved Success Rates: Higher chances of pregnancy.
• Reduced Miscarriage Risk: Fewer chromosomal issues.
• Better Embryo Selection: Healthier embryos identified.
• Fewer Transfers Needed: Efficient treatment cycles.
• Greater Confidence: Reassurance during fertility journey.

When Should You See a Fertility Specialist?

You may consider consulting a fertility specialist if:

• Trying Over One Year: Difficulty conceiving.
• Age Over 35: Trying for six months without success.
• Recurrent Miscarriages: Multiple pregnancy losses.
• Failed Treatments: Previous IVF attempts unsuccessful.
• Family History: Genetic disorders present.

Common Signs You May Need Fertility Testing

• Irregular Cycles: Menstrual irregularities.
• Difficulty Conceiving: Trouble getting pregnant.
• Pregnancy Loss: Repeated miscarriages.
• Hormonal Imbalance: Symptoms affecting fertility.
• Medical Conditions: PCOS or Endometriosis.

Your Fertility Journey at Milann (Step-by-Step Patient Pathway)

At Milann Fertility & Birthing hospital, patients receive personalized care throughout their fertility treatment journey.

1. Initial Consultation: Evaluation of reproductive health.
2. Fertility Testing: Includes hormones, scans, semen analysis, and genetics.
3. IVF Planning: Customized treatment plan including PGT-A if needed.
4. IVF Cycle: Egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo development.
5. Genetic Testing: Embryos are screened for chromosomal health.
6. Embryo Transfer: Healthy embryo is transferred.
7. Pregnancy Monitoring: Ongoing care and follow-up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is PGT-A testing? A genetic screening test for embryos during IVF.
2. Is PGT-A the same as PGS? Yes, PGS is the older term for PGT-A.
3. Does PGT-A improve success rates? Yes, by selecting healthy embryos.
4. Is embryo biopsy safe? Yes, when done by experienced specialists.
5. Does PGT-A guarantee pregnancy? No, but it improves chances.
6. Who should consider PGT-A? Those with IVF failures, miscarriages, or advanced age.

Your Journey, Our Support

The journey to parenthood can sometimes involve unexpected challenges, especially when fertility treatments are needed. Advances such as PGT-A genetic testing have transformed IVF by allowing doctors to carefully evaluate embryo health before pregnancy begins.

With expert fertility care, advanced genetic laboratories, and compassionate guidance at centers like Milann Fertility & Birthing hospital, patients can move forward with greater confidence and reassurance during their fertility journey. For many hopeful families, PGT-A offers an additional layer of hope—bringing them one step closer to welcoming a healthy baby.