Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT-A / PGT-M)

Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is performed on embryos created through IVF. It can support informed embryo selection in specific clinical situations, such as recurrent pregnancy loss, advanced maternal age, or known inherited conditions. PGT is not for everyone, and decisions should be individualized with careful counseling.

Fertility / preimplantation genetic testing

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT-A / PGT-M)

Genetic insight to support embryo selection

What PGT-A and PGT-M do

PGT-A (aneuploidy testing) screens embryos for chromosome number abnormalities, while PGT-M (monogenic testing) tests for a specific inherited condition when there is a known risk in the family. Testing is typically done by biopsy of a few cells from a blastocyst (Day 5/6) with embryos usually frozen while results are processed.

Who may benefit from PGT

PGT may be considered when there is a higher risk of chromosomal or genetic issues. Your fertility specialist will explain whether it is appropriate based on your history and goals.

• Recurrent pregnancy loss
• Repeated IVF failures (case-dependent)
• Advanced maternal age
• Known genetic condition in one or both partners (PGT-M)
• Severe male factor with higher risk considerations (case-dependent)

Step-by-step process

Counseling and planning

We review your history and discuss the potential benefits and limitations of PGT. Genetic counseling may be recommended, especially for PGT-M.

IVF cycle and embryo culture

Embryos are created through IVF (often with ICSI) and cultured to the blastocyst stage when possible.

Embryo biopsy

A small number of cells are biopsied from the embryo’s outer layer (trophectoderm). The embryo is not transferred in the same procedure and is typically vitrified (frozen).

Genetic testing and results

Samples are analyzed in a genetics laboratory. We review results with you, including what they mean for embryo selection and next steps.

Frozen embryo transfer planning

A transfer plan is made based on clinical factors and available tested embryos. We discuss single-embryo transfer to reduce multiple pregnancy risk.

Benefits & success factors

• Supports informed embryo selection in selected cases
• May reduce the risk of transferring an embryo with certain chromosomal abnormalities (PGT-A)
• Helps avoid transmission of a known inherited condition (PGT-M)
• Can support planning for single embryo transfer when appropriate

Risks or considerations

• PGT does not guarantee pregnancy or a healthy baby
• Not all embryos reach the blastocyst stage for biopsy
• Biopsy and freezing are generally safe but carry small risks to embryo viability
• PGT-A is a screening test and has limitations such as mosaicism
• Cost and turnaround time vary; additional counseling may be needed

Why choose Enjab Medical Centre

We provide careful case selection, clear counseling, and coordinated laboratory planning to ensure PGT is used appropriately and ethically within your fertility plan.

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Evidence-based counseling on when PGT is (and isn’t) helpful

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Coordinated IVF, biopsy, freezing, and transfer planning

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Clear explanation of results and realistic expectations

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UAE-compliant standards and patient privacy

FAQs

Is PGT the same as prenatal testing?

No. PGT is done on embryos before transfer. Prenatal testing (such as NIPT or diagnostic testing) is done during pregnancy. Your clinician will advise what is appropriate for you.

Does PGT-A increase IVF success?

It may help in selected situations by supporting embryo selection, but it is not beneficial for everyone. The impact depends on age, embryo number, and diagnosis.

Will we do a fresh transfer?

Often no. Because results take time, embryos are usually frozen after biopsy and transferred in a later frozen embryo transfer cycle.