Pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) is a genetic testing technique that is completed during in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment.
At TFP Fertility, we offer three types of PGT to help identify genetic disorders in embryos and reduce the risk of miscarriages.
If there is a genetic disorder that runs in your family, pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) can help reduce the risk of passing that condition on to your baby.
PGT is a testing procedure designed to prevent abnormalities, including genetic and chromosomal issues, from being inherited by your child. Each embryo is screened and tested for potential disorders, which can help lower the chances of miscarriage and the likelihood of transmitting an inherited genetic disease.
There are three types of pre-implantation genetic testing:
PGT-M – Previously known as pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), pre-implantation genetic for monogenic disorders (PGT-M) tests for over 1,700 genetic conditions, for example, cystic fibrosis and Huntington’s disease.
PGT-SR - Pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT-SR) tests for structural changes in the chromosomes that might cause genetic issues or miscarriage.
PGT-A – Pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) checks for an abnormal number of chromosomes in embryos and helps to reduce the risks of miscarriage.
PGT is an additional test used during IVF, which occurs during the blastocyst stage.
During the treatment, fertilised eggs are cultured in a laboratory. At day five or six, the embryo is ready for implantation, which is known as a blastocyst.
To perform PGT, the embryologist will carefully take a sample of cells, known as a biopsy, from the blastocyst using a thin needle. The biopsy is then sent to the Cooper Genomic laboratory in London, where the embryos are assessed and tested. It’s important to know that PGT carries a small risk of damage to the embryo during the biopsy.
After the biopsy, the embryos are frozen and stored at the clinic until the results from Cooper Genomics are received.
The PGT results can take up to four weeks and understand that this can be stressful.
At TFP, we try to keep you informed throughout the entire process, so you’ll be aware of everything that is happening. As soon as we receive the results, we will contact you immediately.
If the embryos are found to be unaffected, you have the option to proceed with embryo transfer. Unfortunately, there is never any guarantee that any of the biopsied embryos will be suitable for embryo transfer as they may all be affected. If there are no healthy embryos, your consultant will discuss your options with you.
At TFP Fertility, we have had patients who have undergone PGT and have gone on to have healthy babies. Here are a few stories from our patients sharing their journey to parenthood.
Get in Touch with TFP Fertility for Support with PGD
If you have any concerns or questions on PGT, we can provide you with the support you need. For more information, speak to our friendly patient support team to book your consultation at your nearest TFP clinic.
Reviewed by Justin Chu, Medical Director at TFP Oxford Fertility.
Try customising your search or removing filters