← TreatmentsTreatments

PGT

Genetic testing of embryos before transfer in selected medical circumstances.

Request a consultation

Ask about this treatment

Your details are used only to contact you.

On this page

Timing and clinic visits

Results usually arrive within a few weeks of the biopsy; transfer is planned for a later cycle.

Risks and limitations

Every medical procedure has possible risks and limitations. Personal risks and alternatives should be discussed before consent.

Who may be assessed?

Couples known to carry a single-gene condition in the family
Partners with a known difference in chromosome structure
A history of recurrent pregnancy loss
Repeated and unexplained unsuccessful embryo transfers
Advanced maternal age, following medical assessment

Treatment process

01
Genetic counselling
What the test can and cannot tell you in your situation is discussed beforehand. This step is not skipped.
02
IVF cycle
Ovarian stimulation, egg collection and the laboratory stage proceed as usual.
03
Embryo biopsy
A very small number of cells is taken from suitable embryos, in the embryology laboratory.
04
Freezing and analysis
The embryos are frozen and stored while the cells are examined in the genetics laboratory.
05
Result and decision
Results are reviewed with your doctor and the genetics specialist; the embryo for transfer is chosen with this information.
06
Transfer
The chosen embryo is thawed and placed in the uterus in a later cycle.

**Clinical assessment**We begin by listening and reviewing previous results together.

Laboratory processEggs and sperm are followed by the laboratory team according to the selected protocol.

Frequently asked questions

Does the biopsy harm the embryo?

The procedure involves a very small number of cells and is carried out by experienced teams. Even so, like any procedure it carries its own risks, which are explained in detail at your consultation.

How long do results take?

Usually a few weeks. The embryos remain frozen throughout, so nothing is lost during that time.

Does PGT guarantee pregnancy?

No. It adds information to the choice of embryo; it does not guarantee that a pregnancy will occur or continue.

What if no embryo can be tested?

This is possible. If it happens, a new cycle or a different approach is discussed with your doctor.

Detailed information

PGT (preimplantation genetic testing) is the examination of the genetic make-up of embryos developing in an IVF cycle, using a very small number of cells taken from each embryo. The aim is to add information to the choice of embryo for transfer.

Is it done for everyone?

No. PGT is not a routine step and is not needed in most IVF cycles. It is considered in specific situations such as a known genetic condition in the family, recurrent pregnancy loss, repeated unsuccessful transfers, or advanced maternal age. Suitability is decided after genetic counselling.

How is it carried out?

A few cells are taken from the embryo and the embryo is frozen and stored; no transfer is made while the result is awaited. Once the result is available, a suitable embryo is thawed and transferred in a later cycle.

What are its limits?

PGT does not guarantee a healthy pregnancy and does not detect every genetic condition. In some samples the result may be inconclusive; a repeat biopsy or a different plan may then be considered. The effect of the procedure on the embryo and the limits of the method are explained in detail at your consultation.

This page is for general information and does not replace an examination, a diagnosis or personal medical advice.