Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT)

PGT can be used to detect a known hereditary family disorder. The technique allows all embryos obtained in an IVF attempt to be tested and only chromosomally normal embryos to be transferred. PGT thus ensures that the child will not inherit the genetic disorder in question. It can also be used in individuals with recurrent implantation failure or miscarriages.

The number of chromosomally abnormal eggs increases significantly with age. A 30-year-old woman already has 40% abnormal oocytes; over 40, this number rises to 80%. These abnormal eggs may result in a normal-looking embryo, but never result in a continuing pregnancy with a healthy, live-born child. Thanks to PGT, chromosomally normal embryos can be transferred back, increasing the pregnancy rate per embryo transfer. Therefore, the patient’s age becomes less important because the abnormal oocytes are no longer transferred.