What is PGT-A



PGT-A stands for Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy

PGT-A, is a screening test and provides information about the genetic make up of each embryo and helps in selection of the most healthy embryo to be transferred.

Depending on the health of the embryo, an embryo is classified as Euploid, Aneuploid, Mosaic.

How does it work?

  • Eggs are fertilized with sperms in the lab to create embryos.
  • After about 5–7 days, few cells (peripheral cells known as trophectoderm cells) are removed from each embryo by biopsy
  • The cells are analyzed to determine whether the embryo has:
    • A normal chromosome number (euploid).
      • An abnormal chromosome number (aneuploid), - an extra or missing chromosome.

Note : This procedure is conducted in Embryology Lab in accordance with stringent protocols and overseen by a seasoned embryologist. Our Embryology laboratory offers the most advanced fertility testing facility in Gurugram

Why is it used?

PGT-A may help

  • Lower the likelihood of transferring embryos that are not likely to develop
  • Reduce the chance of miscarriage brought on by chromosomal abnormalities
  • Find embryos with proper chromosomal numbers to increase IVF efficiency.

What PGT-A can and cannot tell you?

PGT-A Can detect:

  • Extra or missing chromosomes (e.g., conditions like Down syndrome)

Cannot reliably detect:

  • Any Genetic diseases
  • Birth defects( in most cases)
  • Whether an embryo will definitely result in a healthy baby
  • Many single-gene disorders (these require a different test called PGT-M)

Some Limitations for PGT-A

  • This test may not be 100% accurate.
  • Some embryos are mosaic, meaning they contain a mix of normal and abnormal cells, making results harder to interpret.
  • PGT-A does not guarantee pregnancy success.

Who might consider PGT-A?

It is mainly indicated in couples

  • with recurrent IVF/ICSI failures (recurrent implantation failure)
  • With advanced maternal age as chromosomal abnormalities are generally seen with increasing age of egg. The older the woman the higher the chances of having an affected pregnancy. Data shows that for women in their early 30s about 30 to 35% of embryos are aneuploid but over the age of 40 years the number of embryos which are aneuploid are nearly 75%.
  • It is also indicated where there is a known chromosomal disorder in the couple or in previous pregnancy.

In PGT-SR/PGT-M/PGT–A, it is important that there are sufficient number of embryos available for testing as there may be embryos which may be unavailable for transfer after abnormal report.