One of the most important goals of fertility treatment is not just achieving pregnancy, but ensuring the birth of a healthy baby. Sometimes, infertility, repeated miscarriages, or genetic history in families can be linked to hidden chromosomal or genetic abnormalities in embryos. This is where Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) plays a crucial role.
At Karnic Clinic, we use the most advanced technology – Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) – to analyze embryos at the blastocyst stage. This allows us to identify embryos with normal chromosomes and select the healthiest ones for transfer, improving both pregnancy and live birth rates.
What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing?
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a highly specialized laboratory technique that involves removing a few cells from an embryo at the blastocyst stage (day 5–6) and testing them for genetic and chromosomal abnormalities.
- It checks the embryo for normal chromosome number (euploidy) as well as other genetic issues.
- By identifying abnormal or mosaic embryos, PGT helps ensure only the healthiest embryos are selected for transfer into the uterus.
- This process not only increases the chance of a successful pregnancy but also significantly reduces the risk of miscarriage or genetic disorders in the baby.
➡At Karnic Clinic, we believe in using the most advanced technology, NGS (Next Generation Sequencing), which is highly reliable for detecting abnormal and semi-normal (mosaic) embryos.
Types of Preimplantation Genetic Testing
There are three different types of PGT performed depending on the patient’s condition and medical history:
- Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A)
- Screens embryos for abnormal chromosome numbers.
- Helps identify embryos with the correct number of chromosomes (46 total).
- Especially useful in women of advanced maternal age or couples with repeated IVF failures/miscarriages.
- Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders (PGT-M)
- Used when one or both parents are carriers of a single gene disorder (such as cystic fibrosis, thalassemia, sickle cell anemia).
- Prevents transmission of inherited diseases to the baby.
- Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements (PGT-SR)
- Detects known chromosomal rearrangements like translocations, deletions, duplications, or inversions.
- Essential for couples with a family history of chromosomal abnormalities or recurrent pregnancy loss due to structural genetic issues.
The PGT Process – Step by Step
- IVF/ICSI Fertilization – Eggs are fertilized with sperm in the lab.
- Embryo Culture – Embryos are cultured up to the blastocyst stage (day 5–6).
- Biopsy – A few cells are carefully removed from the outer layer of the blastocyst (trophectoderm), while keeping the embryo safe.
- Genetic Analysis – Biopsied cells are sent for NGS analysis to check for chromosomal or genetic abnormalities.
- Embryo Selection – Only genetically healthy embryos are selected for transfer.
- Embryo Transfer – A healthy embryo is transferred into the uterus to establish pregnancy.
- Cryopreservation – Extra normal embryos can be frozen for future use.
Who Should Consider PGT?
PGT is not necessary for all couples but is highly recommended in certain cases:
- Women above 35 years of age (higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities)
- Couples with a history of repeated IVF failures
- Couples with recurrent miscarriages
- Known carriers of genetic or chromosomal disorders
- Couples with a family history of single gene diseases
- Cases of severe male infertility (as sperm abnormalities may cause chromosomal issues)
Benefits of Preimplantation Genetic Testing
✔Improves IVF success rates by transferring only healthy embryos
✔Reduces risk of miscarriage caused by chromosomal abnormalities
✔Prevents transmission of inherited diseases to the child
✔Supports single embryo transfer, lowering the risk of multiple pregnancy
✔Offers reassurance to couples with a genetic history
✔Saves time and emotional stress by reducing failed cycles
Risks and Limitations
While PGT is safe and widely used, patients should be aware of a few points:
- In rare cases, some embryos may not survive the biopsy procedure (though the risk is minimal with skilled embryologists).
- PGT cannot test for every possible genetic condition – it is limited to known abnormalities.
- It slightly increases the cost of IVF treatment.
- Not all embryos may be suitable for biopsy, especially in women with poor ovarian reserve.
Why Choose Karnic Clinic for PGT?
At Karnic Clinic, we combine cutting-edge genetic technology with compassionate care:
- Advanced IVF Laboratory equipped with modern biopsy and culture systems
- Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) for highly accurate results
- Expert embryologists and genetic specialists with years of experience
- Customized protocols based on your unique medical history
- Counseling and support services to help couples understand results and make informed decisions
- Comprehensive fertility care under one roof – from IVF, ICSI, and Blastocyst Transfer to advanced genetic testing
Frequently asked questions FAQs
Does PGT guarantee a healthy baby?
PGT greatly reduces the risk of genetic abnormalities but does not guarantee against all possible conditions.
Will the biopsy harm the embryo?
The procedure is safe and performed by skilled embryologists. Most embryos continue to develop normally after biopsy.
Is PGT only for older women?
No. It is also recommended for couples with genetic diseases, repeated IVF failures, or recurrent miscarriages.
Can PGT be done with frozen embryos?
Yes. Embryos can be thawed, biopsied, and re-frozen without affecting their potential.
Is PGT expensive?
It adds to the cost of IVF, but many couples find it worthwhile as it reduces failed cycles and the emotional toll of miscarriage.