PGT-A Facts

What is PGT-A?

Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) is intended to detect euploid (chromosomally normal) embryos for preferential transfer, with the goal of increasing pregnancy and birth rates and reducing miscarriage rates after elective single embryo transfer. 

What constitutes a normal embryo?

A normal embryo has the correct number of chromosomes for achieving a live birth.

Who should include PGT-A as part of their IVF plan?

PGT-A is a screening test that may be recommended as part of your individual IVF treatment plan. Questions regarding whether PGT-A is right for you can be directed to your physician or a licensed genetic counselor.

Are there different kinds of PGT-A

In the PGT-A testing landscape, there are many options. The technology platform, testing approach, and limitations of such have evolved over time, and vary across labs. PGT-A is a screening test designed as a selection tool to optimize IVF outcomes for patients. PGT-A platforms evolve rapidly and there currently is not one platform that is viewed as superior to another.  If you have questions about the testing platform, be sure to review with your care team.

What do the guidelines say about PGT-A

ASRM 2024 guidelines suggest that PGT-A as a routine test for all patients doing IVF cannot be recommended. However, reviewing your family building goals with your provider can determine if these goals align with the utility of PGT-A, such as reducing miscarriage, family balancing, fertility preservation and increased success rate per transfer.

What does the research say about PGT-A?

There is substantial research debate in the literature regarding the use of PGT-A.

Ultimately it depends on the question we are asking and patient population we are considering.

Cumulative livebirth rate:

• Research evaluating cumulative live-birth rates suggests that IVF with and without PGTA have similar cumulative live birth rates.
• Cumulative livebirth rate is the percentage of patients who will achieve at least one live birth following an IVF cycle
• Using PGT-A allows preferential selection of a euploid embryo which reduces miscarriage rate and increases success rate per embryo transfer

Reduced Miscarriage Rate:

• Chromosome abnormalities account for 50% of first trimester miscarriages. While IVF with PGT-A may not be routinely recommended, couples with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) may benefit from the use of PGT-A.
• Studies suggest that patients with RPL have increased livebirth rates utilizing PGT-A for preferential selection of euploid embryos

Does PGTA damage the embryo?

Including PGTA as part of your IVF plan typically entails embryo biopsy, which involves removing a very small percentage of the embryo's volume; 4-5 cells from a 100-150 cell blastocyst. Studies report a 1-5% risk of embryo arrest after biopsy, though this could be due to pre-existing embryo conditions. Embryos that are biopsied are typically frozen until transfer. Thawing the embryo for transfer has a risk of not surviving the thaw. The risk is low but can be reviewed with your care team.