Clearer information for your IVF journey.
PGT-A is an optional genetic test that checks an embryo's chromosomes during an IVF cycle. At RMA of Michigan, we use evidence-informed testing and compassionate guidance to help you understand your options and what the results can mean for your care.
What is PGT-A? PGT-A — Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy — is an optional genetic test performed on embryos during an IVF cycle. It checks whether an embryo has the expected number of chromosomes, which can help your physician decide which embryo to transfer. At RMA of Michigan in Troy, PGT-A is one of several tools that can be paired with IVF, depending on your situation.
Understanding PGT-A
PGT-A — Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy — is a test performed on embryos created through IVF. It examines an embryo's chromosomes to check whether the expected number is present.
An embryo with the expected number of chromosomes is called euploid; one with extra or missing chromosomes is called aneuploid. Aneuploid embryos are less likely to implant and more likely to lead to miscarriage, so identifying euploid embryos can help inform which embryo to transfer.
PGT-A is always performed as part of an IVF cycle, and it focuses specifically on the number of chromosomes. Other tools look at different things — for example, ERA testing helps personalize the timing of transfer, while a separate test called PGT-M screens for specific inherited conditions.
How PGT-A fits into IVF, step by step
PGT-A adds a few stages to a standard IVF cycle. Your specific timing and the number of embryos tested are individualized.
IVF & Embryo Development
Your IVF cycle proceeds as usual, and fertilized eggs grow in the lab to the blastocyst stage, typically by day 5 or 6.
Embryo Biopsy
A few cells are gently removed from the outer layer of each suitable blastocyst — the part that goes on to form the placenta.
Freezing
Biopsied embryos are vitrified (rapidly frozen) and stored safely while the genetic analysis is underway.
Genetic Analysis
The cells are sent to a genetics laboratory, where they're analyzed to count the chromosomes in each embryo.
Results & Transfer
Your team reviews which embryos are euploid and plans a frozen embryo transfer of a selected embryo in a later cycle.
What PGT-A can offer
PGT-A provides information to weigh alongside your physician's guidance. It isn't right for everyone, and it doesn't change the outcome of any single embryo — here's what it can contribute.
Informs which embryo to transfer
Identifying euploid embryos helps your physician prioritize an embryo with the expected number of chromosomes.
Supports one-at-a-time transfer
Many patients use PGT-A results to feel more confident transferring a single embryo, which avoids the added risks of twins or triplets.
Addresses a chromosomal cause
Because many early miscarriages are linked to chromosomal differences, choosing a euploid embryo may lower that particular risk.
May streamline the path
By helping prioritize embryos more likely to implant, PGT-A may reduce the number of transfer attempts for some patients.
What it does & doesn't check
PGT-A looks at the number of chromosomes, not specific inherited gene conditions. Your physician can explain other tests if those are a concern.
Clarity before transfer
For some patients, knowing an embryo's chromosome status brings reassurance heading into a transfer.
When PGT-A is often considered
PGT-A can be worth discussing for many people doing IVF, and it comes up especially in a few situations. Your physician will help you decide.
- Patients of advanced maternal age (generally 35 and older), when the chance of chromosomal differences is higher.
- A history of recurrent pregnancy loss.
- One or more previous unsuccessful IVF transfers.
- A wish to transfer a single embryo with more information in hand.
- The share of embryos with chromosomal differences tends to rise with age, which is part of the discussion.
How PGT-A fits into your IVF timeline
Timing varies between patients and cycles. This is a general sequence to help you picture where PGT-A fits in.
Stimulation & Retrieval
Your IVF cycle proceeds normally through ovarian stimulation, monitoring, and egg retrieval.
Embryos Develop
Fertilized eggs grow in the laboratory toward the blastocyst stage, usually reaching it by day 5 or 6.
Embryo Biopsy
A few cells are gently removed from the outer layer of each suitable blastocyst for testing.
Freezing
Biopsied embryos are vitrified and stored safely while the analysis is completed.
Genetic Analysis
A genetics laboratory analyzes the cells to count the chromosomes in each embryo.
Review & Plan
Your team reviews which embryos are euploid and talks through the plan for transfer with you.
Frozen Embryo Transfer
A selected euploid embryo is thawed and transferred in a frozen embryo transfer cycle.
PGT-A questions, answered
Can PGT-A ensure a healthy pregnancy?
No. PGT-A provides information about an embryo's chromosomes, but no test can ensure a pregnancy or a specific outcome. It's one tool your physician uses alongside others when planning your care.
What's the difference between euploid and aneuploid?
Euploid means an embryo has the expected number of chromosomes. Aneuploid means there are extra or missing chromosomes. Aneuploid embryos are less likely to implant and more likely to result in miscarriage.
Is the embryo biopsy safe for the embryo?
The biopsy removes a small number of cells from the outer layer of a blastocyst — the part that goes on to form the placenta — and the embryo is frozen afterward. Your physician can talk through what's known about the procedure for your situation.
Is PGT-A right for everyone doing IVF?
Not necessarily. Whether PGT-A adds value depends on factors like age, history, and goals. Your physician will help you weigh the potential benefits against the added steps and decide together.
Does PGT-A test for inherited diseases?
PGT-A looks at the number of chromosomes, not specific inherited gene conditions. A different test, PGT-M, is used when there's a known inherited condition a family wants to screen for. Your physician can explain which test fits your needs.
Will I need a separate transfer cycle?
Usually, yes. Because results take time to come back, biopsied embryos are frozen and a euploid embryo is transferred in a later frozen embryo transfer cycle.