Genetic screening and PGT

About Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)

Previously known as preimplantation genetic screening or PGS, Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is used to examine abnormalities in the genetics of embryos.

It can be done for people with inherited diseases; for example, cystic fibrosis and muscular dystrophy (PGT-M) or those with a chromosome translocation (PGT-SR). PGT can also be used for people without a history of an inherited disease who want to avoid the transfer of an embryo containing a chromosomal abnormality.

Chromosomal abnormality is one of the most common causes of unsuccessful pregnancy. If an embryo has too many or too few chromosomes (a condition called aneuploidy), this can have a serious effect on its chances of developing normally into a fetus and then a baby. In many cases, embryos with the wrong number of chromosomes stop growing by themselves, and this unfortunately often results in miscarriage.

This is no less common with IVF treatment. However, the IVF process enables us to monitor the development of multiple embryos at the same time. We can provide various levels of genetic screening during treatment to help us select embryos with normal chromosomes that will have the best chance of developing into a healthy pregnancy.

How does PGT work?

The first few stages of an IVF cycle that involves PGS are no different from any other.

The embryos that develop will be examined and you will be advised if they are suitable for a biopsy on day five or six. A small sample of cells (called a biopsy) within the embryo are taken using a needle. We make sure that we take this from the cells which will go on to make the placenta so that we do not damage the cells that will make the baby. The biopsy samples are placed in tubes and sent to the genetics laboratory. The genetic test takes four weeks to process, so your embryos are frozen until we have the result.

Scientists working in the laboratory carry out the PGT-A test on all of the samples received. The test results indicate how many copies there are of each chromosome, revealing any abnormal embryos. PGS does not require additional blood tests prior to the IVF cycle. Once the results are known, your follow up appointment will be confirmed.

How much does Pre-implantation testing (PGT) cost?

Our price list is structured in sections to give you a clear view of the potential steps in your treatment and the associated costs, to allow you to make informed financial planning. Visit your local clinic's pricing page to find out more.

Where is Pre-implantation genetic screening (PGS) or Pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) available?

Genetic screening is available in UK TFP clinics. If you’d like to discuss the genetic diagnosis options available to you for your IVF cycle, please contact us.

HFEA Advice

The HFEA advise there is no evidence to suggest that pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) increases pregnancy rates during IVF treatment. For more information please see the HFEA advice and contact us if you would like to discuss this further.

Pre-implantation genetic testing price list

Work up and genetic counselling

Non-refundable; Includes DNA reference collection and development of unique test that lasts for 2 years

PGT

Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies (PGT-A), Monogenic Diseases (PGT-M) and Structural Rearrangement (PGT-SR). Includes biopsy and testing and excludes production, freezing, storage and transfer of embryos (see below for cycle charges).

Cycle packages

To create the embryos for testing and to transfer embryos once screened

Thaw and refreeze

For patients who undertake genetic testing after their embryos have been frozen. Includes thaw and re-freeze of embryo(s) to be tested.