Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) IN IVF is one of the specialized genetic tests applied by experts in the treatment of infertile couples undergoing IVF treatment. In this method of genetic testing, the chromosomes of the embryos are checked before implantation in the uterus.
During IVF, specialists carry out PGT on the embryo, and on the basis of the results, the healthy embryo is selected. This, therefore, increases the chances of implantation, thus leading to a successful pregnancy.
What Is PGT ?
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is one of the specialized genetic testing methods that infertility treatment experts make use of in IVF treatment, where the chromosomes are checked in embryos before they are implanted in the uterus.
During IVF, specialists carry out PGT on embryos and use this information to select the healthiest embryo, thus ensuring a successful pregnancy.
Key Purpose of PGT in IVF
- Detect genetic disorders early
- Reduce miscarriage risk
- Improve IVF success rates
- Support informed embryo selection
How Does PGT Work in the IVF Process?
PGT is integrated seamlessly into the IVF cycle. Here’s how it works step by step:
- Ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval
- Fertilization of eggs using IVF or ICSI
- Embryo development until Day 5 or Day 6 (blastocyst stage)
- Embryo biopsy (few cells taken from the trophectoderm)
- Genetic analysis in a specialized laboratory
- Embryo freezing (cryopreservation)
- Transfer of genetically normal embryo in a later cycle
This approach ensures that the uterus receives an embryo with normal genetic potential, increasing the chance of a healthy pregnancy.
Types of Preimplantation Genetic Testing
There are three main types of PGT used in IVF, each designed for a specific purpose.
1. PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy)
PGT-A screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities, such as missing or extra chromosomes.
Common conditions detected:
- Down syndrome (Trisomy 21)
- Turner syndrome
- Edwards syndrome
Best suited for:
- Women over 35
- Recurrent IVF failure
- Recurrent pregnancy loss
2. PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders)
PGT-M identifies single-gene inherited disorders caused by mutations passed from parents.
Examples include:
- Thalassemia
- Cystic fibrosis
- Sickle cell anemia
- Huntington’s disease
Recommended for couples with known genetic conditions or family history.
3. PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements)
Therefore PGT-SR is used when one or both partners carry chromosomal structural abnormalities, such as translocations or inversions.as a result this testing helps identify embryos with balanced chromosomes before transfer.
It helps prevent implantation of embryos with unbalanced chromosomes.
Benefits of PGT in IVF Treatment
Preimplantation Genetic Testing offers multiple medical and emotional advantages:
- Higher implantation and pregnancy rates
- Reduced risk of miscarriage
- Lower chances of genetic disorders
- Fewer IVF cycles required
- Improved confidence in embryo selection
- Better long-term pregnancy outcomes
PGT allows doctors to move from trial-based IVF to precision-based fertility treatment.
Who Should Consider PGT in IVF?
Although PGT may not be necessary for every IVF patient, it is strongly recommended in certain cases, especially when there is a higher risk of genetic abnormalities.
- Women aged 35 years or above
- Couples with recurrent miscarriages
- Multiple failed IVF attempts
- Known genetic or chromosomal disorders
- Severe male factor infertility
- Couples seeking single embryo transfer with high success probability
A fertility specialist can guide whether PGT is medically appropriate for your case.
Accuracy and Safety of PGT
PGT is considered highly accurate, with diagnostic accuracy ranging from 95% to 99%, depending on the testing type and lab expertise.
Is PGT Safe for Embryos?
Yes. When performed by experienced embryologists using advanced biopsy techniques, PGT is safe and does not harm embryo development.
Cost of PGT in IVF in India
The cost of Preimplantation Genetic Testing in India varies based on several factors:
- Type of PGT (PGT-A, PGT-M, or PGT-SR)
- Number of embryos tested
- Laboratory technology used
- Fertility center location and expertise
Approximate Cost Range:
- PGT-A: ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000
- PGT-M / PGT-SR: ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,50,000
(Cost is additional to IVF treatment expenses.)
Limitations of PGT
While PGT offers many advantages, it is important to understand its limitations:
- Not all genetic conditions can be detected
- Slight chance of mosaicism
- Additional cost
- Requires embryo freezing and delayed transfer
A transparent discussion with your fertility specialist is essential before proceeding.
Ethical and Legal Considerations of PGT in India
In India, PGT is legally permitted only for medical reasons.
Sex selection using PGT is strictly prohibited under the PCPNDT Act.
Reputed fertility centers follow strict ethical and regulatory guidelines to ensure patient safety and compliance.
FAQs: Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) in IVF
Is PGT mandatory for IVF?
No, PGT is optional and recommended only in specific medical situations.
Can PGT guarantee a healthy baby?
PGT significantly reduces genetic risks but cannot guarantee a 100% healthy pregnancy.
Does PGT improve IVF success rates?
Yes, especially in older women and couples with repeated IVF failures.
How many embryos are needed for PGT?
multiple embryos are preferred to increase the chance of finding a genetically normal embryo.
Is PGT painful?
No, PGT is performed on embryos, not on the patient.
Conclusion: Is PGT Worth It in IVF?
PGT in IVF is a leap ahead toward improving fertility care by instilling hope, clarity, and confidence among childless couples. PGT enhances the pregnancy outcome while reducing emotional and financial stress by selecting genetically healthy embryos.
If you are planning for IVF and belong to a high-risk group, then consultation with an experienced fertility center will prove to be decisive in the direction of PGT for a successful and healthy pregnancy.
Available personalized consultation at a reliable fertility clinic and thus initiate your journey to parenthood. Dr. Anushka Madan at vrinda fertility is one of the most reliable IVF specialists to go to if you are embarking on a journey of parenthood and want to identify a reliable infertility centre in your locality. Get Direction
