Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) allows your specialist to screen the embryos for genetic or chromosomal conditions, before they are transferred during IVF, helping guide decisions with clarity and confidence.
Our Oxford-trained specialists at Child Fertility provide personalised guidance, combining world-class medical expertise with compassionate support throughout this journey.
What is PGT?
PGT is an advanced laboratory technique used during IVF to analyse embryos for genetic conditions or chromosomal abnormalities before implantation. By examining a small number of cells from each embryo, specialists can identify certain genetic conditions or chromosomal differences that may affect the chances of pregnancy or lead to miscarriage.
There are three main types of PGT, each used for different medical needs:
- PGT-A (Aneuploidy): Screens embryos to check for the correct number of chromosomes, which should be 46. Evidence suggests in some patients PGT-A can identify embryos with the normal number of chromosomes and may reduce the risk of miscarriage, increase the live birth rate and reduce the number of treatment cycles needed to achieve success. PGT-A is also used to identify the chromosomal sex of an embryo.
- PGT-M (Monogenic conditions): Used when there is a known risk of a specific inherited genetic condition, such as cystic fibrosis or sickle cell disease.
- PGT-SR (Structural rearrangements): Recommended where one partner carries a chromosomal rearrangement called a translocation, which may affect embryo development, increase miscarriage risk or the chance of having a baby with a congenital abnormality.
Each type of testing is carefully considered based on your personal circumstances, and medical history, with clear explanations at every step.
Who is PGT suitable for?
PGT may be recommended as part of an IVF cycle, in particular:
- Advanced maternal age, which can increase the risk of chromosomal variation
- If one or both partners carry a genetic mutation or chromosomal rearrangement
- For couples with a family history of a serious inherited genetic condition.
- Recurrent miscarriages, particularly where a genetic cause is suspected
- Previous unsuccessful IVF cycles
Our specialists review each situation individually to determine whether PGT is appropriate, explaining the potential benefits and limitations in a supportive, non-pressured way.
What to expect during PGT at Child Fertility
Preimplantation Genetic Testing is carried out alongside IVF, offering an extra layer of insight into your embryos before transfer.
In a standard IVF cycle, embryologists select embryos based on how they look under the microscope, which provides some clues about their health.
PGT takes this a step further, giving more detailed information about the genetic and chromosomal makeup of each embryo.
At Child Fertility, our PGT process brings world leading clinical best practice to KSA, including:
- Fertilisation and embryo growth: Eggs are collected and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory setting and allowed to develop into embryos over several days.
- Embryo biopsy: a small number of cells are carefully removed from the outer layer (which forms the placenta) by an experienced embryologist. In KSA this procedure is frequently conducted on day 3 embryos. However, at Child Fertility, we perform biopsies on day 5 or 6 embryos, when they are at blastocyst stage, as clinical studies show this results in significantly lower risk of harm to the embryo.
- Genetic analysis: The sampled cells are examined in a specialised genetics laboratory, to assess for chromosomal or specific genetic conditions.
- Embryo selection and transfer: Embryos with results suggesting a normal chromosomal number or absence of the tested genetic condition are prioritised for transfer, while those with identified abnormalities are excluded. This helps reduce the risk of transferring embryos affected by certain genetic or chromosomal conditions and supports the goal of a healthy outcome.
Embryos are frozen while awaiting results, allowing time for careful planning of the transfer in a subsequent frozen cycle.
Does PGT improve IVF success rates?
PGT does not increase the ability to fertilise an egg, but it can help improve the chances of a successful pregnancy in certain cases by identifying embryos with a normal chromosomal makeup.
By selecting embryos with the highest potential for implantation, PGT may:
- Reduce the risk of miscarriage in some patients
- Improve embryo selection and support decision-making
- Support more informed treatment decisions
However, outcomes still depend on several factors, including age, embryo quality, and overall reproductive health.
Your fertility journey with Child Fertility
PGT represents one of the most significant advancements in reproductive medicine, offering couples in Saudi Arabia greater insight at a pivotal moment in their IVF journey.
If you’re considering PGT, or simply want to explore how genetic testing could fit into your fertility journey, our team is here to help. We offer personalised assessments, clear guidance on your options, and compassionate care every step of the way, helping you feel supported and confident as you move forward.
When you feel ready, we welcome you to arrange a confidential conversation with a specialist from our team, and explore the options that could best support your journey to parenthood.
FAQs
PGT is generally considered safe when performed in experienced laboratories. It involves removing only a few cells from the outer layer of a day 5 to 7 blastocyst embryo. While most embryos tolerate this well, it is important to understand that no procedure is entirely without risk, and outcomes can vary.
PGT is usually well tolerated, but there are some limitations and risks to consider. Results can occasionally be inconclusive, and not all embryos will be suitable for testing. There is also a risk of damage to the embryo during biopsy. This is why at Child Fertility global best practice is followed, and biopsies are conducted on day 5 or day 6 embryos, as evidence shows the risk is lower.
PGT can support the selection of embryos without certain genetic or chromosomal conditions, but it cannot guarantee pregnancy. Success still depends on factors such as age, embryo quality, and uterine health and will always be discussed in a personalised context.
PGT may also be recommended for couples when there is a clear clinical indication. This may include known inherited genetic conditions, chromosomal abnormalities, or in selected IVF cases following detailed discussion. It may also be explored in certain situations such as recurrent miscarriage or previous unsuccessful treatment.
In some cases, testing may show that none of the embryos from a cycle are suitable for transfer. While this can be difficult news, it provides important information that helps guide next steps — whether that means a further IVF cycle or exploring other options. Your specialist will always be on hand to discuss results sensitively and help you understand the path forward.
The testing process is done as part of an IVF cycle. After fertilisation, suitable blastocyst embryos are biopsied and genetic testing is performed over several days. Embryos are frozen while awaiting results, with transfer planned in a subsequent cycle.
