PGT is sold as a guarantee. It answers one question.

PGT (pre-implantation genetic testing) takes a few cells from an embryo made by IVF and tests them for a specific genetic problem before the embryo is transferred.

Some embryos carry a chromosome in the wrong number, or a faulty gene passed down from a parent. PGT tells the embryology team which embryos are unaffected on that one test. It needs an embryo outside the body, so it is only possible with IVF, not with natural conception. The older name PGD means the same as PGT-M.

PGT-M tests for one known inherited condition, PGT-SR for a parent's chromosome rearrangement, and PGT-A for the number of chromosomes.

PGT-M is built around your family's specific gene change, such as beta thalassaemia, which is common in India, or sickle cell disease or spinal muscular atrophy. PGT-SR is for a parent who carries a balanced translocation, usually found on a karyotype blood test. PGT-A counts chromosomes; it does not look at individual genes. Each test answers only its own question.

Embryos are grown to day 5 or 6, a few cells are taken from the outer layer, and every biopsied embryo is frozen while the lab tests the cells.

For PGT-M and PGT-SR, counselling and a custom lab test come first, which can take several weeks. Then a normal IVF cycle, usually with ICSI so stray sperm cannot confuse the result. Only embryos that reach blastocyst can be tested. Results usually take 1 to 2 weeks, and a suitable embryo is transferred in a later, prepared cycle.

PGT-M and PGT-SR are for couples with a known genetic condition or chromosome rearrangement; PGT-A is considered only in selected cases, discussed with you.

In India the ART (Regulation) Act 2021 allows embryo testing to screen for known, pre-existing, heritable or genetic diseases. At Jananam, PGT-A may be discussed from 38, or after repeated failed transfers or miscarriages, weighing what it can and cannot do for you. Outside these situations the case for testing is much weaker.

PGT does not make embryos better, does not test for every condition, and does not guarantee a healthy baby.

It only chooses among the embryos you already have, so a cycle with few embryos may end with none to transfer. Some embryos are mosaic (a mix of normal and abnormal cells), and some give no result. For most patients PGT-A does not raise the chance of a baby, though it may lower the chance of miscarriage. Routine pregnancy screening is still needed.

PGT is worth it when it answers a question that changes your decision, such as a known family condition or a parent's translocation.

ASRM advises against using PGT-A for every IVF patient. What decides the cost is the type of PGT, the lab set-up for your family's gene, how many embryos are tested, and the extra freezing and frozen transfer. We give you that in writing before you decide. If a tested embryo is normal, one embryo is transferred.