How PGT Can Increase Your Chances of IVF Success
Posted on October 24th, 2024
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the most successful assisted reproductive treatments (ART) available today. While pregnancy is never a guarantee, combining IVF with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can ensure only the healthiest and strongest embryos are transferred, further increasing the chances of IVF success.
What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing?
PGT refers to the genetic testing of embryos created through IVF. It offers empowering insight into their genetic makeup and overall health. There are three categories of PGT.
Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A)
The most common form of PGT, PGT-A screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities before they are transferred to the uterus. PGT-A specifically assesses whether an embryo has the correct number of chromosomes. This can reduce the risk of chemical pregnancies and early miscarriage.
Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic or Single-Gene Disorders (PGT-M)
PGT-M involves screening embryos for single-gene disorders known to be present in the family, such as cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia. It’s used by couples who know that they likely carry specific genetic diseases and want to ensure they don’t pass these diseases onto their offspring.
Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements (PGT-SR)
PGT-SR involves analyzing the chromosomes of embryos to identify any structural abnormalities such as translocations, inversions, or deletions. Structural abnormalities may result in miscarriages or genetic disorders in offspring, so identifying them can increase the chances of IVF success.
How Successful is IVF with PGT?
If you can determine healthy, genetically normal embryos, you increase your chances of a successful transfer. And because most miscarriages are due to chromosomal abnormalities, PGT can reduce the chances of pregnancy loss. Although success rates will vary from patient to patient and clinic to clinic, a 2018 study evaluating the effectiveness of PGT-A found consistently high implantation and live birth rates.
PGT Risks and Limitations
There are some risks and limitations associated with PGT. False positives or negatives are possible, although rare. Studies have found an overall accuracy rate of around 90%. Additionally, PGT can’t rule out all abnormalities, and there is a small risk of embryo damage when removing cells for testing.
Learn More About PGT
While PGT doesn’t offer any guarantees, it reduces genetic risks and increases pregnancy success rates. PGT with IVF offers couples more control over their family planning, and peace of mind that their embryos are genetically healthy prior to transfer. Determining whether PGT is right for you can be challenging, so it’s important to speak with an experienced fertility team.
At Aspire Fertility, we offer PGT testing, IVF, and other types of fertility care. We can walk you through your options and help you pick the best treatment for your family-building goals. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment. We have locations in Austin, Dallas, McAllen, and San Antonio.
