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What Is Preimplantation Genetic Testing?

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a laboratory procedure used during IVF to analyze embryos for genetic or chromosomal abnormalities before embryo transfer.

During IVF, embryos are created in the laboratory. A small sample of cells is then carefully taken from the embryo and tested to evaluate its genetic makeup.

Advances in reproductive medicine have made it possible to evaluate the genetic health of embryos before pregnancy begins. One of the most important developments in this field is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT).

PGT is performed during an IVF cycle to examine embryos for specific genetic abnormalities before they are transferred to the uterus. This allows fertility specialists to select embryos with the best potential for healthy development.

With the growing awareness of genetic health and improvements in laboratory technology, genetic testing has become an important tool in modern fertility care. It can help reduce the risk of certain inherited conditions and improve the chances of a successful pregnancy.

In India, fertility treatments involving genetic testing follow strict medical guidelines and ethical standards to ensure patient safety and responsible use of reproductive technology.

This process helps fertility specialists:

  • Identify embryos with the correct number of chromosomes
  • Detect certain inherited genetic disorders
  • Select embryos with higher chances of implantation and healthy development

Only embryos that meet the recommended genetic criteria are chosen for transfer.

Types of Genetic Testing in IVF

There are different types of PGT depending on what is being tested.

  • PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy)
    PGT-A checks whether an embryo has the correct number of chromosomes. Chromosomal abnormalities can lead to implantation failure, miscarriage, or certain genetic conditions.
  • PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders)
    PGT-M is used when one or both parents carry a specific genetic condition, such as thalassemia or cystic fibrosis. The test helps identify embryos that do not carry the inherited disease.
  • PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements)
    PGT-SR is used for individuals with chromosomal structural abnormalities such as translocations, which can increase the risk of miscarriage or abnormal embryos.

What Happens After Genetic Testing?

After embryo biopsy and genetic testing:

  • The embryos are usually frozen while genetic analysis is performed
  • Test results typically become available within a few days
  • Your fertility specialist will review the results with you
  • A healthy embryo is selected for frozen embryo transfer (FET) in a later cycle

The embryo transfer process is similar to standard IVF embryo transfer.

Possible Side Effects

PGT is generally considered safe and is widely used in IVF treatments.

Possible considerations include:

  • Embryo biopsy is a delicate laboratory procedure but is performed using advanced techniques
  • Some embryos may not be suitable for testing or transfer
  • The testing process may slightly extend the IVF timeline

Fertility specialists carefully monitor every stage to ensure the best possible outcomes.

What Are the Risks?

While PGT offers valuable information, there are some limitations and considerations.

  • No Test Is 100% Perfect – Although highly accurate, genetic testing cannot detect every possible condition.
  • Embryo Viability – Not all embryos may develop to the stage required for biopsy and testing.
  • Emotional Considerations – Waiting for test results and making decisions about embryo selection can sometimes be emotionally challenging.

Your fertility specialist will guide you through the process and help you understand the results.

PGT may be recommended in several situations where there is a higher risk of genetic abnormalities.

Genetic testing can help:

  • Improve embryo selection during IVF
  • Reduce the risk of genetic disorders
  • Lower the chances of miscarriage related to chromosomal abnormalities
  • Increase the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy

While not required for every IVF cycle, PGT can be a valuable option for certain patients.

Who May Benefit from PGT?

Preimplantation Genetic Testing may be recommended for:

  • Couples with a family history of genetic disorders
  • Individuals known to carry inherited genetic conditions
  • Women of advanced maternal age (typically over 35)
  • Couples with recurrent miscarriages
  • Patients with repeated IVF failure
  • Individuals with chromosomal abnormalities

Your fertility specialist will evaluate your medical history and advise whether genetic testing may be beneficial in your case.

How Do You Prepare for PGT?

Preparation for PGT is similar to the preparation for an IVF cycle.

You may undergo:

  • Fertility evaluation and consultation
  • Genetic counseling (if a hereditary condition is involved)
  • Hormone testing
  • Ultrasound examinations
  • Semen analysis

In some cases, additional genetic screening for the parents may also be recommended.

Step-by-Step: How Genetic Testing in IVF Works

IVF Cycle and Embryo Development

Eggs are retrieved and fertilized with sperm in the laboratory during an IVF cycle.

The embryos are allowed to grow for about 5–6 days until they reach the blastocyst stage.

Embryo Biopsy

A small number of cells are carefully removed from the outer layer of the embryo.

This process does not damage the part of the embryo that will develop into the baby.

Genetic Analysis

The sampled cells are analyzed in a specialized laboratory to detect chromosomal or genetic abnormalities.

Embryo Freezing

While testing is performed, embryos are frozen using advanced cryopreservation techniques.

Embryo Transfer

Once test results are available, a healthy embryo is selected and transferred into the uterus during a frozen embryo transfer cycle.

How Effective Is PGT?

PGT does not guarantee pregnancy, but it can improve the chances of selecting embryos with better implantation potential.

Success rates may improve in certain situations, particularly for patients with:

  • Advanced maternal age
  • Recurrent miscarriage
  • Previous IVF failure
  • Known genetic conditions

Your fertility specialist can discuss whether PGT may improve outcomes in your specific case.

Advanced Fertility Care with Precision

At Ankur Fertility Clinic, advanced reproductive technologies are used to support patients facing complex fertility challenges.

Genetic testing services are integrated into IVF treatment plans when medically appropriate. Patients receive detailed explanations of the testing process, potential benefits, and possible outcomes before beginning treatment.

The clinic focuses on combining advanced reproductive science with compassionate patient care, helping individuals and couples make informed decisions about their fertility journey.

21+ Years of Fertility Expertise

Ankur Fertility Clinic is led by Dr. Suparna Banerjee, an experienced gynecologist and infertility specialist in Kolkata with over two decades of expertise in reproductive medicine.

Personalized Treatment Approach

Every patient receives individualized fertility counseling and treatment planning based on medical history, fertility evaluation, and reproductive goals.

Trusted by Patients

The clinic is widely recognized for compassionate care and consistently receives strong patient reviews.

Comprehensive Fertility Services

The clinic offers a wide range of fertility treatments, including:

  • Fertility evaluations
  • IUI treatments
  • IVF and ICSI procedures
  • Egg freezing and fertility preservation
  • Donor programs
  • Genetic testing (PGT)

Accessible Location

Located in New Alipore, Kolkata, Ankur Fertility Clinic serves patients from across the city and surrounding regions of West Bengal.

1. What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)?

PGT is a genetic test performed during IVF to analyze embryos for chromosomal or genetic abnormalities before embryo transfer.

2. Is PGT required for every IVF cycle?

No. PGT is recommended only in certain cases where there is a higher risk of genetic abnormalities or recurrent IVF failure.

3. Is embryo biopsy safe?

Embryo biopsy is performed using advanced laboratory techniques and is generally considered safe when performed by experienced embryologists.

4. Can PGT prevent genetic diseases?

PGT can help identify embryos that do not carry certain inherited genetic conditions, reducing the risk of passing these diseases to the child.

5. Does PGT guarantee pregnancy?

No fertility treatment can guarantee pregnancy. However, PGT can help select embryos with better implantation potential.

6. How long does PGT testing take?

Genetic testing usually takes a few days after embryo biopsy, and embryos are typically frozen while waiting for results.

7. Is PGT useful for older women?

Yes. PGT-A is often recommended for women over 35 because the risk of chromosomal abnormalities increases with age.

8. Can PGT reduce miscarriage risk?

In some cases, PGT may reduce the risk of miscarriage by identifying embryos with normal chromosome numbers.

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