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Fertility Glossary

PGT-A (preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy)

Testing embryos for the correct number of chromosomes before transfer.

Genetics & PGT

PGT-A (preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy) checks whether an embryo's cells have the expected number of chromosomes (euploid) or an abnormal number (aneuploid), using cells taken at embryo biopsy, usually at the blastocyst stage. It aims to help choose an embryo with a lower chance of miscarriage or failed implantation from chromosome number problems. PGT-A does not check for every genetic condition, does not assess embryo quality directly, and does not guarantee a healthy baby or ongoing pregnancy even when an embryo is reported euploid. Results can occasionally be mosaic (a mixture of normal and abnormal cells) or inconclusive, and the biopsy sample does not always perfectly represent the whole embryo. Indian and international bodies note that the evidence for PGT-A improving live birth rates in all patient groups, particularly younger women with good-prognosis embryos, remains debated, and it adds cost and complexity to an IVF cycle. PGT-A is not routinely recommended for every IVF patient; it may be discussed for specific situations such as recurrent implantation failure, recurrent pregnancy loss, or advanced maternal age, after informed counselling. Sex determination or selection is prohibited in India under the PCPNDT Act, and any chromosome information from PGT-A must never be used to reveal or select embryo sex for non-medical reasons.

Also known as: PGT-A, preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy, embryo chromosome screening

Sources

  • ICMR Standard Treatment Workflows (icmr.gov.in/standard-treatment-workflows-stws)
  • Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (fogsi.org)
  • European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (eshre.eu)
  • American Society for Reproductive Medicine (asrm.org)

Last reviewed: 9 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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