If you are already on your IVF journey, then you might have come across one complicated term, "Pre-implantation Genetic Testing”. Its name might seem quite sophisticated; however, its meaning and purpose are super easy to comprehend for a layman. This is associated with the testing of your embryos under a special laboratory setting with the aim of identifying any chromosomal or genetic issue. This is thoroughly done with the purpose of delivering safe and positive IVF results. PGT-A is one of the types of PGT, commonly referred to as Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy, and aims to find out the exact number of chromosomes present in the embryos.
However, PGT-A is not recommended for everyone, as adding this procedure in each IVF cycle would not increase the birth rates. This is only associated with genetic testing of embryos, and you’ll surely get complete information on PGT-A IVF when recommended.
Welcome to this blog post where you’ll be introduced to the specific PGT-A IVF when recommended guide, including its meaning, when the experts recommend it, along with the points it cannot guarantee, so continue reading.
Get brief information on PGT-A during IVF!
Normally, the embryo must contain 46 chromosomes in total, with 23 pairs; PGT-A is done exactly for this purpose.
If the embryos have a normal number of chromosomes, they are associated with euploidy, which is generally implanted without any further procedure for IVF success.
Nonetheless, aneuploidy is referred to as an improper number of chromosomes, often resulting in miscarriages and failed IVF.
This is exactly where PGT-A is performed to thoroughly identify the chromosome number to proceed with the further steps.
Understand how PGT-A actually works!
Generally, PGT-A is not a separate procedure, as it is a part of an IVF process; therefore, its working includes the proper IVF procedure!
Firstly, the sperm and eggs are fertilised after the egg retrieval process to obtain the resulting embryos.
The experts waited until the embryos reached the blastocyst stage to get the outer layer removed.
Afterwards, the outer layers are thoroughly removed for further biopsies, which are a part of PGT-A.
Once the cells are biopsied, they are sent to Next Generation Sequencing, where they are analyzed precisely for the exact 23 pairs of chromosomes.
Your result for embryo testing would come after 7-14 days, during which your embryos are frozen and preserved for further processing.
Here are the possible results of PGT-A that you can expect!
Euploid: This includes the exact number of chromosomes in the embryo, which strongly indicates successful implantation of embryos.
Aneuploid: The resulting embryo does not have a fixed number of chromosomes, whether some are missing or they include extra chromosomes, which eventually results in IVF failure and Down syndrome.
Mosaic: This is associated with an embryo having both normal and abnormal cells, which is generally analyzed by experts.
Do you need PGT-A during IVF or not?
As mentioned above, PGT-A is only performed during a few IVF cycles to prevent miscarriage and IVF failure.
Your chromosomal abnormalities would increase as you age; thus, if you are beyond 35, you must opt for this.
If you have already experienced a few miscarriages before, then opting for PGT-A would be the better option, as sometimes chromosomal abnormalities also lead to failed pregnancies.
Even after several attempts, if embryos are not implanting in the uterus, then this testing is a must.
If only a few embryos have been produced, then choosing PGT-A would help in identifying the healthy ones for successful implantation.
If the exact reason behind your infertility is still not recognised, then undergoing this test would provide you with a clear picture.
What can PGT-A during IVF not guarantee you?
A successful pregnancy
Even if the embryo has normal chromosome numbers, the chances of positive IVF results and a successful pregnancy cannot be guaranteed, as it depends on other factors as well.
Certainty of a baby
Although PGT-A testing helps lower the possible risk associated with the IVF journey, it cannot guarantee that you’ll be blessed with a baby.
Any genetic disorder
PGT-A only targets the number of chromosomes; it does not help in identifying the exact genetic conditions such as sickle cell anemia or cystic fibrosis.
Reduced risk of miscarriage
As mentioned above, it thoroughly reduces the risk of miscarriage; however, it does not guarantee that, as there are some other non-chromosomal factors as well that can increase the chances of miscarriage.
Improving egg quality
PGT-A is just a screening test that identifies abnormal and normal cells; however, it cannot improve the specific egg quality.
Summing up the above-mentioned points!
You might have understood the exact meaning of PGT-A during the IVF journey, along with its working process for significantly differentiating between abnormal and normal cells. This genetic testing does not guarantee any results; however, for those who have already faced miscarriages or unexplained infertility, this genetic testing would sound beneficial. You can even ask your IVF surgeon if you have specific PGT-A IVF when recommended questions to get concise and clear answers.
If you have been searching for professional IVF surgeons who provide detailed information regarding your IVF journey, then here we are! The experts at Dr. Sumita Sofat IVF Hospital have advanced knowledge, blended with high expertise in performing IVF cycles, including the analysis of your reproductive health as well. Meet our expert, Dr. Sumita Sofat, who has years of experience in IVF surgeries and has helped thousands of families achieve successful pregnancies, is known for delivering happiness and love. We even provide you with detailed information regarding PGT-A IVF when recommended for further proceedings.
FAQs
What is done after an embryo contains improper chromosomes?
An embryo with improper chromosomes is usually discarded by the experts to implant the healthy ones for successful implantation.
What if healthy embryos do not get implanted in the uterus successfully?
If the embryos are not successfully implanted, they will be shed during your next menstrual cycle, and there will be no pregnancy; your menstrual cycle will also resume.
Are unhealthy embryos the only reason behind failed IVF?
No, there are other conditions as well, including uterine and endometrial issues, along with poor sperm quality and unhealthy lifestyle factors, that can cause IVF failure.
How are the genetic conditions analyzed during IVF?
Through Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), genetic conditions are thoroughly analyzed with the purpose of implanting healthy embryos into the uterus.
About the Author
Dr. Sumita Sofat
Dr. Sumita Sofat is a fertility specialist at Dr. Sumita Sofat Hospital in Ludhiana, India. Her patient-education articles focus on infertility, IVF, reproductive health, and helping individuals and couples understand their fertility treatment options.
