Advancements in fertility treatment have given hope to countless couples struggling with infertility. One such breakthrough is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) – a powerful tool used during the IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) process to help ensure the healthiest possible embryos are selected for transfer. PGT provides valuable insight into the genetic health of embryos before pregnancy begins, increasing the chances of a successful outcome and reducing the risk of inherited disorders.
In this article, we’ll explore what PGT means in IVF, when it’s recommended, the benefits it offers, and address a common question many couples have – is PGD safe for embryos?
Understanding PGT: What It Means in IVF
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a cutting-edge laboratory procedure that allows fertility specialists to examine embryos created during IVF for genetic abnormalities before they are transferred into the uterus.
During IVF, eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory to form embryos. After a few days of development, a few cells are gently removed from each embryo for genetic analysis. These cells are tested to detect chromosomal or genetic irregularities, while the embryo itself remains safely frozen or cultured until results are ready.
Once the healthiest embryos are identified – those with a normal number of chromosomes and no disease-causing mutations – they are selected for transfer, increasing the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
Types of PGT
PGT is a broad term that includes different types of testing, depending on what genetic conditions are being investigated:
1. PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies)
This test screens for chromosomal abnormalities – where embryos have missing or extra chromosomes. Chromosomal errors are a common cause of implantation failure and miscarriage. PGT-A helps identify embryos with the correct number of chromosomes (46), improving implantation success and reducing miscarriage risk.
2. PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders)
This type of test is used for couples who carry or have a family history of a specific genetic disorder (such as cystic fibrosis, thalassemia, or sickle cell anemia). PGT-M ensures only embryos free from the inherited condition are selected for transfer.
3. PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements)
Some individuals have chromosomal translocations or rearrangements, which can cause infertility or recurrent miscarriages. PGT-SR helps detect embryos with balanced chromosomal structures, preventing potential complications.
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When Is PGT Recommended?
PGT is not required for every IVF cycle, but it is strongly recommended in certain cases to increase the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy. Fertility specialists may suggest PGT in the following situations:
- Advanced maternal age (35 years or older) – As women age, the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in eggs increases, which can lead to genetic disorders or miscarriage.
- Recurrent pregnancy loss – Couples who have experienced two or more miscarriages may benefit from PGT to detect genetic issues that cause pregnancy failure.
- Repeated IVF failures – When multiple IVF cycles result in failed implantation, PGT can help identify genetically healthy embryos for better outcomes.
- Known carriers of genetic disorders – Couples who carry inherited conditions such as thalassemia, cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, or Tay-Sachs disease can use PGT-M to prevent transmission to their child.
- Severe male factor infertility – Abnormal sperm DNA can lead to chromosomal errors in embryos; PGT helps select viable embryos for transfer.
- Previous child with a genetic disorder – Couples who already have a child affected by a genetic disease can use PGT to avoid recurrence.
- Family history of chromosomal rearrangements – PGT-SR can detect structural changes that might otherwise lead to non-viable pregnancies.
Benefits of PGT in IVF
1. Improved Pregnancy Success Rates
By selecting genetically normal embryos, PGT increases the chances of successful implantation, pregnancy, and live birth.
2. Reduced Risk of Miscarriage
Many miscarriages are due to chromosomal abnormalities. PGT helps identify and eliminate these embryos, minimizing the risk of pregnancy loss.
3. Healthier Babies
PGT ensures that only embryos without genetic disorders are implanted, significantly reducing the risk of inherited conditions being passed to the next generation.
4. Informed Family Planning
Couples with a known genetic disorder can make informed choices about their family’s future with the help of PGT-M.
5. Reduced Emotional and Financial Stress
By improving IVF success rates and preventing repeated failed cycles, PGT reduces both the emotional and financial burden associated with infertility treatments.
6. Single Embryo Transfer (SET)
With confidence in the embryo’s genetic health, doctors can transfer just one embryo instead of multiple, reducing the risk of twin or triplet pregnancies while maintaining high success rates.
Is PGD Safe for Embryos?
Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD), now referred to as PGT-M, has been used safely in fertility clinics worldwide for over two decades. The testing process involves removing just a few cells from the outer layer of a developing embryo (blastocyst stage) – the part that later forms the placenta, not the baby itself.
Extensive research and clinical experience have shown that when performed by trained embryologists using advanced techniques, PGD/PGT does not harm the embryo or affect its ability to implant and grow into a healthy baby.
Embryos are carefully monitored throughout the process, and only those that meet the highest developmental and genetic standards are selected for transfer.
Common Myths About PGT
❌ Myth 1: PGT guarantees a 100% successful pregnancy.
While PGT increases the odds, success also depends on other factors like egg quality, uterine health, and maternal age.
❌ Myth 2: PGT is only for older couples.
PGT is beneficial for any couple at risk of passing on a genetic condition or facing repeated IVF failures, regardless of age.
❌ Myth 3: PGT can modify a baby’s traits.
PGT screens embryos for health-related genetic conditions only. It does not alter or select traits like intelligence, appearance, or gender (unless medically indicated).
Conclusion
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is one of the most transformative advancements in assisted reproduction. It empowers couples to make informed decisions, improves the chances of a successful pregnancy, and ensures healthier outcomes for both mother and baby.
By identifying embryos free of genetic or chromosomal abnormalities, PGT minimizes risks and provides a path toward confident parenthood – especially for couples with a history of infertility, miscarriage, or genetic concerns.
At SRI IVF Patiala, fertility specialists offer advanced IVF treatments with PGT to ensure the best possible results. With state-of-the-art genetic testing, personalized care, and expert guidance, countless couples have achieved their dream of a healthy baby.