What is PGT-A?
PGT-A works by analysing the amount of genetic material within IVF embryos. This genetic material is housed within structures called chromosomes, which are crucial for healthy growth and development.
Embryos with the incorrect number of chromosomes often do not result in a successful pregnancy or may lead to a miscarriage or the birth of a child with a genetic condition.
By identifying embryos with the correct number of chromosomes, PGT-A helps select the embryo with the best chance of leading to IVF success.
How PGT-A is Performed
During IVF, eggs are fertilised with sperm in a lab to create embryos. When the embryos reach about 5-6 days of development, a few cells are taken from each one. These cells are tested to see how many chromosomes they have.
Benefits of PGT-A
Higher success rates:
PGT-A helps choose the best embryos, increasing the chances
Lower risk of miscarriage:
Embryos with chromosomal problems are more likely to cause miscarriages. PGT-A helps avoid these embryos.
Better decision-making:
PGT-A provides important information to help you make the best choices during your IVF journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
PGT-A can increase the success rates of IVF by choosing the best embryos. Success rates can vary, so it's important to talk to your fertility specialist about your specific situation.
Yes, PGT-A is safe. The biopsy involves taking a few cells from the trophectoderm of the embryo, which is the external cell mass that later contributes to form the placenta. This usually does not harm the embryo's development or its ability to implant.
PGT-A is recommended for couples with a history of miscarriages, older maternal age, previous IVF failures, or known chromosomal issues. It can also help those who want to improve their chances of a successful IVF cycle.
PGT-A results are usually ready 2-4 weeks after the biopsy. Your fertility specialist will explain the results and what they mean for your treatment.
If all embryos are abnormal, your fertility specialist will discuss the next steps with you. This might include another round of IVF, using donor eggs or sperm, or exploring other fertility treatments.
Ready to start your fertility journey?
You might be actively looking to grow your family right now, or just want to have an assessment of your fertility with a view to the future. But wherever you are in your fertility journey, booking a consultation with one of our fertility doctors is the first and most important step on the path to starting a family.
