Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies (PGT-A), formerly known as Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS), is a genetic study of embryos that is conducted during in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. The purpose of PGT-A is to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby. PGT-A involves testing the embryos for aneuploidies, which refers to the presence of an abnormal number of chromosomes. In 2018, several major reproductive organizations, including the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, and the International Committee Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technologies, decided to change the name of PGS to PGT-A to more accurately reflect the nature of the testing. If you are considering IVF, you may want to discuss the option of PGT-A with your doctor.

What does PGS testing Entail?

Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies (PGT-A), also known as Preimplantation Genetic Screening, is a procedure that can be performed during in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. PGT-A involves examining embryos for chromosomal abnormalities before they are transferred to the uterus. The process begins with ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval, followed by fertilization in the IVF lab. On day five or six of the embryo’s development, a small sample of cells is taken from the embryo and sent to a genetic testing lab for analysis. The sample is examined for the presence of any extra or missing copies of chromosomes among the 23 pairs of chromosomes, including the two sex chromosomes (X and Y). Once the PGS testing is complete, the results are returned to the doctor, who can use them to determine which embryos should be transferred to the uterus. The embryos will be stored at the IVF clinic during the testing process. PGT-A can be a helpful tool for increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby.