What Is PGT and When Is Embryo Genetic Testing Recommended?

When you begin an assisted reproduction treatment—whether as a couple or on your journey as a single mother by choice—the ultimate goal is not just achieving a positive pregnancy test, but bringing a healthy baby home. However, we know that the uncertainty throughout this process can be overwhelming. How do you know if the embryo about to be transferred has the best chances of implanting and developing healthily?

This is where modern reproductive science offers one of its most fascinating and promising tools: PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Testing). More than just a laboratory procedure, it is a protective shield that brings peace of mind, reduces risks, and shortens your journey to motherhood.

What Exactly Is PGT?

PGT is an advanced genetic test performed on embryos during In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment, right before they are transferred to the uterus. Once the embryo reaches the blastocyst stage (around the fifth or sixth day of development), embryologists carefully biopsy a few cells from the outer layer (which will eventually form the placenta), leaving the inner cell group that will form the baby completely intact.

This analysis allows us to "read" the embryo’s DNA to verify that it has the correct number of chromosomes or to rule out hereditary disorders. By selecting and transferring only genetically healthy (euploid) embryos, the chances of a successful, sustained pregnancy increase significantly.

When Is This Test Recommended?

While PGT is an extraordinary technology, it is not always necessary for every patient. At ANHELA Fertilidad, our specialists evaluate each medical history on an entirely personalized basis, primarily recommending this test in the following scenarios:

• Maternal age of 35 and older: As time passes, ovarian quality naturally declines, increasing the percentage of embryos with chromosomal abnormalities. PGT is a vital ally for women seeking to become mothers at 38, 40, or older, counterbalancing the biological clock factor.

• Recurrent pregnancy loss (recurrent miscarriages): If you have experienced the profound heartbreak of two or more miscarriages, this test helps identify whether the underlying cause stems from an embryonic genetic factor, helping prevent history from repeating itself.

• Previous implantation failures: When embryos of visually excellent grade have been transferred in prior IVF cycles without achieving pregnancy, PGT allows us to look beyond embryo appearance.

• History of hereditary genetic diseases: If you or your partner are known carriers of a severe hereditary condition (such as cystic fibrosis, hemophilia, among others), a specific variant of this screening (PGT-M) enables the selection of embryos free from the condition.

• Severe male factor: When semen analysis shows severe abnormalities, which can also directly affect embryonic genetics.

Peace of Mind as Part of Your Treatment

Adding genetic screening to your IVF treatment offers undeniable clinical benefits: it reduces the risk of miscarriage, lowers the probability of genetic conditions (such as Down syndrome), and substantially increases the live birth rate per embryo transfer.

We know that every embryo represents a future life and a heartfelt dream. Protecting them with advanced technology and expert guidance is our way of standing by your side, ensuring you experience your treatment with the greatest possible peace and hope.