PGT Testing in Mumbai | Genetic Screening for Healthy Embryos.

What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) and Why Is It Done?

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is an advanced fertility procedure used to screen embryos for genetic abnormalities before transfer during IVF. It helps identify embryos with the correct number of chromosomes or without specific genetic mutations. Couples undergoing fertility preservation may also consider PGT to ensure that frozen embryos have a healthy genetic profile, improving the chances of a successful pregnancy when the embryos are used later.

How Does PGT Help Improve IVF Success?

PGT plays a crucial role in enhancing IVF outcomes by:

• Selecting embryos with normal chromosomal patterns: This ensures that only embryos with the best potential for implantation are chosen.

• Reducing the risk of failed implantation: Embryos with genetic abnormalities are filtered out, increasing the likelihood of a successful transfer.

• Increasing the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy: Screening embryos minimizes the risk of miscarriage or congenital genetic conditions.

By integrating fertility preservation with PGT, couples can store genetically screened embryos, offering greater confidence for future parenthood.

Who Might Need PGT Before Embryo Transfer?

PGT is particularly recommended for individuals or couples who:

• Have experienced recurrent miscarriages: Screening embryos reduces the risk of repeating the same issues.

• Are of advanced maternal age: Older women are more likely to produce embryos with chromosomal abnormalities, so PGT helps select the healthiest embryos.

• Have known genetic disorders in the family: PGT ensures that embryos are free from specific inherited genetic mutations.

• Are planning fertility preservation: Screening embryos before freezing allows storage of healthy embryos for future use.

A fertility specialist will evaluate your reproductive history and recommend PGT if it aligns with your needs.

What Are the Different Types of PGT (PGT-A, PGT-M, PGT-SR)?

Preimplantation Genetic Testing includes three main types:

• PGT-A (Aneuploidy): Detects embryos with the wrong number of chromosomes, reducing the risk of failed implantation and miscarriage.

• PGT-M (Monogenic): Screens embryos for specific single-gene disorders, preventing the inheritance of known genetic diseases.

• PGT-SR (Structural Rearrangement): Identifies embryos with chromosomal structural abnormalities, ensuring only normal embryos are selected.

Couples who are considering fertility preservation can choose the most suitable PGT type based on medical advice and family history.

Can PGT Reduce the Chances of Miscarriage or Genetic Disorders?

Yes, PGT significantly reduces the risk of miscarriage and genetic disorders by allowing embryologists to select only genetically healthy embryos for transfer. When combined with fertility preservation, couples can freeze these screened embryos, increasing the likelihood of a successful pregnancy in the future.

How is PGT Performed During the IVF Process?

The PGT process involves several carefully monitored steps:

• Embryo culture: Embryos are grown in the lab to the blastocyst stage, which is optimal for biopsy.

• Biopsy: A few cells are carefully removed from the embryo for genetic testing without harming its development.

• Genetic analysis: The cells are analyzed using advanced molecular techniques to detect chromosomal or gene-level abnormalities.

• Embryo selection: Only embryos confirmed to be healthy are selected for transfer or freezing.

Couples planning fertility preservation can freeze these screened embryos for future use, ensuring the highest quality for later IVF cycles.

Is PGT Safe for Embryos?

Yes, when performed by experienced fertility specialists, PGT is safe for embryos. The biopsy procedure is minimally invasive and does not interfere with embryo growth. Embryos that pass screening are healthy and ready for transfer or freezing. Integrating fertility preservation ensures these embryos remain viable for long-term storage.

When Should You Consider Doing PGT in Your Fertility Journey?

PGT is usually considered:

• After multiple IVF failures or miscarriages: Helps identify potential genetic causes and improve future outcomes.

• When there is a known risk of genetic disorders: Ensures embryos are free from inherited conditions.

• For couples undergoing fertility preservation: Freezing genetically screened embryos maximizes the chance of a healthy pregnancy in the future.

Early consultation with a fertility specialist can help determine the optimal timing for PGT in your treatment plan.

What Happens If PGT Finds a Genetic Issue in the Embryo?

If a genetic abnormality is detected, the embryo is not used for transfer but may be frozen for research or ethically discarded. Couples can explore alternative options such as using donor eggs, sperm, or embryos. When combined with fertility preservation, healthy embryos are stored for future IVF attempts, maximizing chances of successful parenthood.

How Does Genetic Counselling at Meridian IVF Support Your Decisions?

At Meridian IVF, genetic counseling provides expert guidance to help couples understand PGT results, evaluate risks, and make informed decisions. Patients considering fertility preservation alongside PGT benefit from personalized support, emotional guidance, and clear explanations of options and outcomes.

Why Choose Meridian IVF for PGT Testing in Mumbai?

Meridian IVF offers comprehensive PGT testing in Mumbai, combining advanced laboratory technology with compassionate care. Couples who are planning fertility preservation can store genetically screened embryos safely, giving them peace of mind for future parenthood. Our team of fertility specialists ensures every step, from embryo biopsy to embryo transfer or storage, is handled with precision, safety, and personalized guidance.