As more and more people turn to reproductive procedures, people are asking deeper questions about its safety and risks. Genetic screening, which helps assess the success of IVF process particularly PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Testing) is one such procedure.
At Luma fertility, a patient-oriented and technology-driven approach is taken. Genetic screening is now not considered an add-on procedure but a critical tool for making informed choices. As it helps navigate recurrent pregnancy loss, advanced maternal age and inherited conditions.
Why Genetic Abnormalities Matter in IVF
A leading cause of failed implantation and miscarriage is chromosomal abnormality in embryos. Even embryos that look healthy under a microscope may carry missing or extra chromosomes, a condition known as aneuploidy.
With consistent research showing a significant proportion of embryos are chromosomally abnormal, especially as maternal age increases. These abnormalities often result in failure to implant, early pregnancy loss and genetic disorders. PGT plays a huge role when such abnormalities are concerned.
What Is PGT and How Does It Work?
It is a screening process that is performed as a part of an IVF cycle, after fertilisation, embryos are allowed to develop to the blastocyst stage (typically Day 5 or 6). A few cells are then carefully biopsied from the outer layer of the embryo, which later forms the placenta, not the foetus.
These cells are analysed to identify chromosomal or genetic abnormalities before embryo transfer.
There are different types of PGT:
- PGT-A – It is usually used to screen for chromosomal abnormalities
- PGT-M – It is known for screening inherited genetic disorders
- PGT-SR – It is used for screening structural chromosomal rearrangements
Genetic screening helps select the embryos with the highest potential for a healthy pregnancy.
How PGT Helps Reduce Miscarriage Risk
The major benefit of PGT is its role in reducing miscarriage rates. As many of the miscarriages are caused by chromosomal errors, selecting a chromosomally normal embryo increases the chances of pregnancy substantially.
Especially, for the patients who have experienced repeated miscarriages, this clarity is quite helpful.
Who Benefits Most from PGT?
PGT is not recommended for every IVF cycle, it can be proven helpful for people where patients have either faced recurrent pregnancy loss, any genetic predisposition, repeated IVF cycle failures and people who are trying to reduce time to get pregnant.
Addressing Common Myths Around PGT
PGT is quite misunderstood, even though it has many benefits.
Myth: PGT damages embryos
Fact: Embryo biopsy is quite safe, when performed by experienced embryologists. There has been no evidence of increased birth defects because of embryo biopsy.
Myth: PGT guarantees pregnancy
Fact: While PGT helps improve selection, it does not improve certainty. Pregnancy depends on various other factors such as reproductive health and other biological factors.
Myth: PGT is only for older patients
Fact: While age is a prominent reason for PGT, younger patients prone to genetic risks or prior miscarriages also use PGT.
Ethical and Emotional Considerations
Deciding what to test for and how to proceed based on results requires sensitive counselling and clear communication. That is where the right clinic matters the most, as it will prioritise education and consent to ensure patients feel supported and not pressured.
Conclusion
Genetic screening through PGT has redefined what’s possible in IVF, offering patients greater clarity, reduced miscarriage risk, and more confidence in each transfer decision. It is not a necessary step for every IVF cycle, it can be an important procedure for the right patients. Clinics like Luma fertility are helping patients through a personalized approach and giving advice that is right for the patient and not generic.
Author Bio
I am a fertility specialist with advanced training in reproductive medicine. I hold MS and DNB qualifications and have received ART training in Germany, the UK, and Italy. My areas of interest include PCOS, minimal-stimulation IVF techniques, and recurrent pregnancy loss. I’ve also been involved in developing IVF programs across different parts of India, with a focus on patient-centric and evidence-based care.
