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PGT-A, or Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies, is a genetic test performed on the embryos produced through IVF. It examines the chromosome material of an embryo and can tell if the appropriate number of chromosomes is present. This will help physicians select the best embryo for transfer and improve the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.
Embryos whose cells have the correct number of chromosomes are called euploid. Embryos whose cells have extra or missing chromosomes or pieces of chromosomes are called aneuploid. Aneuploid embryos are significantly more likely to fail to implant, result in miscarriage, or lead to the birth of a child with a genetic disease, while euploid embryos are much more likely to lead to a healthy pregnancy.
PGT-A is a helpful test for the majority of couples/individuals doing IVF treatment. Depending on the patient’s age, Up to 50% of embryos produced in an IVF cycle are aneuploidy. Chromosomal Aneuploidies are one of the main reasons couples of all ages have difficulty getting pregnant. However, as women age, the quality of their eggs decreases, and the risk of producing an embryo with a chromosomal abnormality increases. This is why women considered advanced maternal age have more difficulty conceiving and a higher rate of miscarriage and birth defects.
