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Fertility Glossary

Aneuploidy

An abnormal number of chromosomes in an egg, sperm or embryo.

Genetics

Aneuploidy means a missing or extra chromosome. Most aneuploid embryos do not implant or end in early miscarriage; a few, such as trisomy 21, can result in a live birth. The proportion of aneuploid eggs rises steadily with age, which explains much of the age-related fall in IVF success.

Also known as: chromosomally abnormal, abnormal embryo

Sources

  • Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ranzcog.edu.au)
  • Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (rcpa.edu.au)

Last reviewed: 10 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only โ€” always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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