Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy(PGT-A)
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Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy(PGT-A)

PGT-A is a screening test to identify if there is the correct number of chromosomes in your embryos.

What is PGT-A?

PGT-A is a screening test to identify if there is the correct number of chromosomes in your embryos. The procedure involves taking some cells from the blastocyst stage embryo, and a specialist genetics laboratory determines if the embryo is normal and suitable for transfer. This technique may improve outcomes for certain patient demographics.

Some embryos which may appear normal under the microscope may in fact be chromosomally abnormal – known as “Aneuploid” and don’t have the required 46 chromosomes in each cell. Many aneuploid embryos can implant, but unfortunately, they may not be compatible with life and often result in eventual miscarriage. Embryos found to be Aneuploid can be removed from clinical use.

Embryos that have the correct/balanced number of chromosomes are called “Euploid”. Embryos shown to be Euploid can be used for embryo transfer and generally have a significantly improved chance for implantation.

Who is PGT-A Recommended For?

PGT-A may be discussed with you in consultation with the doctor, as part of your IVF cycle, if you have:

  • A history of failed IVF despite the transfer of what appear to be good-quality embryos.
  • Repeated implantation failure.
  • Recurrent pregnancy loss/miscarriage.
  • Higher risk of producing abnormal embryos due to age (See graph below).

Possible Benefits

PGT-A may:

  • Give the patient more information about their embryos.
  • Help you achieve pregnancy in the least number of IVF cycles.
  • Help you avoid future failed IVF cycles and pregnancies. If PGT-A shows you have only abnormal embryos, you can consider alternative ways to have a family, such as the use of donor sperm or donor eggs.
  • Reduce the likelihood of miscarriage.

PGT-A Process

1

IVF cycle

You will undergo ovarian stimulation to produce mature eggs, which are then fertilised in our laboratory. We will monitor embryo development to day 5 and 6, known as the blastocyst stage.

2

Blastocyst culture

The embryologists will advise you if any of your blastocysts are of high enough quality to be suitable for biopsy. Blastocysts need an adequate number of cells for the embryologists to take some for testing without doing any harm to the embryo.

3

Cell extraction

Cells will be carefully taken from each embryo by our skilled biopsy practitioners. 

4

Embryo Cryopreservation

The biopsied embryos are frozen following the biopsy procedure and kept in our cryostorage. 

5

Transportation

The embryo biopsies are transported to a specialist genetics laboratory for testing.

6

PGT-A results

Results take 2 – 3 weeks to come back once the genetics centre receives them. Our embryologists will use the PGT-A report from the genetics centre to determine which of your embryos are suitable for transfer. 

7

Frozen Embryo Transfer

You will undergo a Frozen Embryo Transfer if euploid embryos are available, which involves optimising and preparing your uterus for pregnancy and precisely timing your embryo transfer. Only one embryo will be thawed and transferred in each cycle to reduce your risk of multiple pregnancy.

Should I have PGT-A as part of my IVF cycle?

Deciding to proceed with PGT-A is a very sensitive and individual decision.

Your Manchester Fertility consultant will discuss the benefits and risks with you in your particular case, so you can make an informed choice about whether to have PGT-A in your IVF treatment.

*There is a separate charge for this additional treatment.

Preimplantation Genetic Testing facts

1

PGT-A, genetics and gender

PGT-A does not detect genetic disease mutations or test for specific genetic conditions. We cannot tell you the gender of an embryo.

2

PGT-A limitations

PGT-A may detect small abnormalities on the actual chromosomes themselves; these embryos are called Segmental Aneuploid, and require genetic counselling to use.

Only embryos of very high quality can be biopsied.  On day 5/6, there may not be blastocysts of suitable quality for PGT-A

3

PGT-A safety

PGT-A is a very delicate and intricate procedure using state-of-the-art technology, and Manchester Fertility embryologists have had intensive embryo biopsy training to perform PGT-A. The risk of damage to an embryo during cell extraction is less than 1%.

4

PGT-A and frozen embryos

PGT-A can be performed on embryos already frozen in storage with us. We can thaw these to perform testing if advised. Your embryos will need to be refrozen afterwards, which we can do successfully and at minimal risk to your embryos. Embryos of good quality can withstand multiple freeze-thaw cycles at the same survival rate. (98 - 99%)

5

PGT-A risks

PGT-A may show you have no normal embryos which are suitable for transfer. And although PGT-A is highly accurate, the risk of a pregnancy affected by a chromosome abnormality is not removed entirely.

6

Risk of no-result

Approx 2% of the time, we do not get a result. This is usually due to poor DNA integrity of the biopsied cells, in which case a rebiopsy may be necessary.

What are add-ons?

Add-ons are optional extras that you may be offered on top of your normal fertility treatment, often at an additional cost.

Some clinics may include certain add-ons with their treatment packages as standard, whilst others charge separately. This add-on is optional, not included as part of your treatment and can be paid for as an extra part of your treatment. At Manchester Fertility, we do charge for this add-on.

If you require more information on add-ons, you can visit the HFEA website here.

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