1) What Is Embryo Genetic Testing (PGT-A) and Why Is It Used?

PGT-A examines embryos created during IVF to check whether they have the normal number of chromosomes. Chromosomes carry genetic information, and the correct number is important for normal development.

This testing can help identify embryos with higher implantation potential and reduce the chance of miscarriage related to chromosomal abnormalities. Because IVF often produces multiple embryos, PGT-A may add another layer of information to guide which embryo to transfer.

2) How Does Embryo Selection Work Without Genetic Testing?

Without PGT-A, embryologists select embryos by observing development in the lab — including growth speed, cell structure, and blastocyst quality. This approach has been used successfully for decades.

However, embryo appearance and growth patterns cannot fully confirm chromosome status. A good-looking embryo can still be chromosomally abnormal, and a less perfect-looking embryo can still lead to a healthy pregnancy.

3) What Are the Benefits of PGT-A?

• Better embryo selection: Helps identify embryos with the correct chromosome number.
• Lower miscarriage risk: Many miscarriages are linked to chromosomal abnormalities.
• Supports single embryo transfer: Selecting one strong embryo reduces the need to transfer multiple embryos.
• Faster time to pregnancy (for selected patients): May reduce repeated failed transfers.

In the right patients, PGT-A can improve efficiency and reduce emotional “trial-and-error” transfer cycles.

4) What Are the Risks and Limitations of PGT-A?

• Embryo biopsy risk: A few cells are taken from the outer layer (future placenta). There is a small risk of harming an otherwise healthy embryo (often quoted around 2–3%).
• Extended lab culture: Embryos usually need to reach day 5 (blastocyst) for biopsy. For some patients with fewer embryos, this step can reduce the number available for transfer.
• Not 100% accurate: Results are highly informative but not perfect; false results can occur.
• Mosaic embryos: Some embryos contain both normal and abnormal cells, requiring careful interpretation.

The key point: PGT-A can help, but it also introduces trade-offs. It should be used selectively, not blindly.

5) Who Benefits Most from PGT-A?

PGT-A may be more helpful for:

• Women aged 35+ (especially 37+), where chromosomal abnormalities are more common
• History of recurrent miscarriage (after appropriate medical assessment)
• Repeated IVF failure (case-by-case)
• Patients who create multiple embryos, where selecting the best embryo matters more
• Known chromosomal issues in one partner (specialist-directed)

PGT-A may be less helpful (or not worth the added risk/cost) for:

• Younger patients with good prognosis and few embryos
• Patients with 1–2 embryos, where biopsy risk may outweigh the benefit
• Low ovarian reserve cases where every embryo is precious

6) How Should Couples Decide About PGT-A?

The decision should be personalized — based on your age, embryo numbers, history, and priorities. Ask yourself:

• Do we want to reduce miscarriage risk as much as possible, even if it means fewer embryos may be usable?
• Do we have enough embryos that testing meaningfully helps selection?
• Are we comfortable with a small biopsy risk for more targeted transfer decisions?
• What is our timeline, budget, and emotional tolerance for repeated transfer attempts?

At MediHope Fertility Clinic, we do not treat PGT-A as a “default add-on.” We recommend it when the numbers and the clinical situation support it — because that’s how you avoid unnecessary steps and protect your chances.

7) Why Keep the Number of Embryos Transferred Low?

Multiple embryo transfer increases the chance of twins or triplets. While it may sound appealing, multiple pregnancies carry higher risks, including preterm birth and complications for both mother and baby.

One advantage of PGT-A (when appropriate) is that it can support single embryo transfer with more confidence, aiming for one healthy baby at a time.

FAQ About Embryo Genetic Testing (PGT-A)

Is PGT-A 100% accurate?

No. It is highly accurate but not perfect (commonly around ~95%).

Can embryo biopsy harm the embryo?

Yes. There is a small risk that biopsy can reduce embryo viability (often quoted around 2–3%).

Should everyone doing IVF get PGT-A?

No. It depends on age, embryo number, and your clinical history.

Does PGT-A increase pregnancy rates?

It can improve outcomes in selected groups (often older age groups or those with many embryos), mainly by improving selection and reducing failed transfers or miscarriages.

What if we have only one embryo?

Usually, PGT-A is less helpful if you have only one embryo because you may not have any alternative to choose from, and biopsy risk may not be worth it.

Can PGT-A detect all birth defects?

No. PGT-A mainly checks chromosome number. Single-gene conditions require different testing (specialist-directed).

How MediHope Fertility Clinic Can Help

If you are considering IVF and unsure whether PGT-A is right for you, our team can review your age, ovarian reserve, embryo numbers, and past outcomes to recommend a strategy that protects your chances — without unnecessary add-ons.

Book a consultation with MediHope Fertility Clinic to discuss whether PGT-A truly benefits your case.