Treatment & science
Preimplantation Genetic Testing: Types and Limits
Understand PGT-A and PGT-M, their different purposes, and questions to discuss before embryo testing.
Understand PGT-A and PGT-M, their different purposes, and questions to discuss before embryo testing.
Preimplantation genetic testing, or PGT, examines a sample of cells from an IVF embryo before decisions about transfer. Different types answer different questions. The choice should begin with the reason for testing, rather than the assumption that testing always produces a better outcome.
PGT-A evaluates chromosome number. PGT-M is designed around a particular inherited single-gene condition; it requires appropriate genetic assessment and test preparation. PGT-SR addresses certain structural chromosome rearrangements. Your team should explain which test is proposed and which questions it cannot answer.
ASRM does not recommend routine PGT-A for every IVF patient. Testing cannot guarantee a healthy child. Results may be inconclusive or raise questions about mosaicism, and a small sampled group of cells may not perfectly represent the whole embryo. Biopsy, storage, cost, and the possibility of having no embryo available for transfer all deserve discussion.
Ask how the laboratory reports results and what choices might follow each category. Discuss prenatal testing separately; embryo testing does not replace all prenatal assessment. A decision can depend on medical history, available embryos, personal priorities, and the specific inherited condition being considered.
Explore related RCA guidance or request a consultation. Share personal medical details through your care team’s approved secure channel.
Educational information. It does not replace an individual assessment or instructions from your care team.
