Genetic testing of embryos, without the hype.
PGT-A screens IVF embryos for whole-chromosome abnormalities before transfer. It can reduce miscarriage risk and shorten time to a healthy pregnancy — but it isn't right for every IVF cycle.
How PGT-A fits into IVF
01
IVF cycle & fertilization
02
Embryo culture to blastocyst (day 5–7)
03
Biopsy of a few placental cells
04
Lab screens all 23 chromosome pairs
05
Euploid embryo frozen for later transfer
What it tests
PGT-A checks whether an embryo has the normal number of chromosomes (euploid). Abnormal embryos often fail to implant or lead to miscarriage.
Who benefits most
Patients 35+, those with recurrent miscarriage, prior abnormal embryos, or repeated implantation failure tend to see the clearest benefit.
The trade-offs
Biopsy and freezing add cost and time; some embryos with normal potential may be misclassified. Mosaic results require careful genetic counseling.
Added cost
Typically $2,000–$5,000 per IVF cycle for the biopsy and testing, on top of the base cycle — plus fees per embryo at some labs.
Related tests
PGT-M targets specific inherited conditions you carry; PGT-SR screens structural chromosome rearrangements. Your genetic counselor will advise which applies.
Questions to ask
What's your lab's error and mosaic-call rate? Do you re-biopsy or discard mosaics? And what would you recommend for my age and history — and why?