More embryo information. Better-informed selection. Clear clinical limits.
PGT-A screens cells from a blastocyst biopsy to report chromosome copy-number findings, giving additional information about the embryos created during an IVF cycle. This may help prioritize which embryo to transfer first, but the test itself does not improve the intrinsic quality of any embryo it examines.
IVF and ICSI
Oocytes are retrieved and fertilized as part of a complete IVF cycle, using ICSI when appropriate to support fertilization under laboratory conditions. This stage establishes the embryos that may later be considered for biopsy, so the same clinical strategy that guides IVF also guides the decision to pursue PGT-A.
Biopsy and vitrification
A small cell sample is taken from each qualifying blastocyst and sent for genetic testing, while the embryo itself is vitrified to preserve it during the laboratory analysis. This step keeps the embryo available for transfer once the report is ready, without requiring a fresh cycle to be repeated.
Laboratory report
The laboratory report provides chromosome screening information for each tested embryo, describing findings that must be interpreted alongside your reproductive history and treatment goals. A report on its own does not determine the next step; it is one input into a broader clinical conversation.
Transfer planning
Results, embryo availability, reproductive history and treatment goals are considered together to inform the next decision, whether that means proceeding to transfer, continuing to bank embryos or reassessing the strategy. The report is one part of that conversation, not the only factor that matters.
What PGT-A can and cannot do
Chromosome screening information may help prioritize which embryos to transfer and reduce some transfers of embryos reported as aneuploid, giving a clearer picture of what is available in a given cycle. It does not create better embryos, guarantee implantation, eliminate miscarriage risk or guarantee a healthy baby at the end of treatment.
Advanced reproductive age (40+)
For patients 40 and older, the discussion may be more relevant when embryo number and ovarian reserve make testing a practical option, since chromosomal abnormality becomes more common with reproductive age. Even so, the decision should be made individually rather than recommended automatically for every patient in this group.
Previous losses or IVF history
A history of pregnancy loss or an unsuccessful IVF cycle may prompt a discussion about whether PGT-A could add useful information to the next attempt. Testing should not be presented as the automatic answer to every previous loss, since other factors in the cycle may carry equal or greater weight.
Family balancing
PGT-A can report sex-chromosome information as part of the same chromosome screening used to assess embryo health, which is why it is sometimes discussed alongside family balancing. IVF cannot guarantee that an embryo of the desired sex—or any transferable embryo—will be available at the end of a given cycle.
