When discussing an in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment, it is natural for the question of whether genetic testing of embryos is necessary to arise. For some couples, preimplantation genetic testing may be part of the treatment plan, but it is not an automatic step for all patients. This is exactly why it is important to understand what this investigation means, when it may be useful, and why the recommendation must be made individually, depending on medical and reproductive history.

What PGT Means and What Role It Has in IVF Treatment

PGT, or preimplantation genetic testing, refers to the analysis of embryos obtained through IVF before transfer into the uterus. In practice, there are several types of testing, depending on what is being assessed: numerical chromosomal abnormalities, known monogenic diseases in the family, or certain chromosomal rearrangements. In the language commonly used by patients, preimplantation genetic testing usually refers to situations in which the chromosomal evaluation of embryos is desired before embryo transfer.

It is useful to look at this step as an additional investigation, not as a guarantee. Preimplantation genetic testing may help with selecting embryos that have a chromosomal profile considered suitable for transfer, but it cannot eliminate all risks and cannot replace later pregnancy monitoring. Moreover, guidelines and professional societies emphasize that PGT-A should not automatically be considered beneficial for all patients undergoing IVF, precisely because its clinical usefulness depends on the context of each individual case.

For a broader understanding of the treatment stages, the complete guide to in vitro fertilization may also be helpful, especially if you are at the beginning of the information process.

In What Situations Preimplantation Genetic Testing May Be Recommended

The indication for preimplantation genetic testing is not established only on the basis of the desire to “check” the embryos, but after a careful evaluation. In certain situations, the physician may recommend this option when there is a history of repeated implantation failure, recurrent pregnancy loss, advanced maternal age, or suspicions of increased genetic or chromosomal risk. In addition, when there is a known genetic disease or a structural chromosomal abnormality within the couple, the discussion about PGT becomes even more important.

However, it is important to understand that preimplantation genetic testing is not recommended uniformly for all infertility cases. There are situations in which the estimated benefit is lower, or in which the number of available embryos is already limited, and in those cases the decision must be weighed very carefully. For this reason, the correct recommendation appears only after correlating age, reproductive history, ovarian reserve, embryo quality, and any previous genetic results.

Within a dedicated evaluation, information about screening for aneuploidies (PGT-A) can clarify more clearly what this investigation aims to assess and to what extent it fits your situation.

What Is Important to Know Before Making This Decision

One of the most important ideas is that preimplantation genetic testing does not provide absolute certainty. The result may guide embryo selection for transfer, but it does not guarantee pregnancy or the birth of a healthy child. This is why professional organizations recommend that patients receive clear information about benefits, limitations, the possibility of inconclusive results, and the need for prenatal confirmation after pregnancy is achieved.

In addition, preimplantation genetic testing involves extra laboratory steps, waiting time, and sometimes additional costs. For some couples, this stage may bring more clarity in choosing the embryo for transfer. For others, the advantage may be less obvious. This is precisely why the discussion should be carried out not only in technical terms, but also in relation to the real goals of treatment, the IVF prognosis, and the emotional tolerance for the entire process.

Before making a decision, it is also worth reviewing the page about the role of genetic counseling before IVF, because proper counseling is essential when discussing preimplantation genetic testing and realistic expectations regarding the outcome.

“You deserve to be listened to, seen, treated with respect and supported throughout life.”

Andreas Vythoulkas

Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Frequently Asked Questions

Is preimplantation genetic testing necessary in every IVF treatment?
No. Preimplantation genetic testing is not a mandatory step for all couples undergoing IVF. The recommendation is made individually, depending on medical, reproductive, and genetic history, as well as the goals of treatment.

Does PGT guarantee pregnancy?
No. This investigation may help with selecting embryos for transfer, but it does not guarantee implantation, a favorable pregnancy outcome, or the absence of all genetic or obstetric problems.

Can PGT replace prenatal tests after pregnancy is achieved?
No. Even after PGT, guidelines recommend that patients be offered prenatal screening and diagnosis, because preimplantation testing is not perfect and does not replace the evaluation of an already established pregnancy.

How do you know whether this option is right for you?
The correct answer can only be reached after a complete evaluation. The physician may recommend additional investigations, genetic counseling, and analysis of your reproductive history before deciding whether PGT has a real indication.

Why Choose Genesis Athens for PGT Evaluation in IVF

When considering an investigation such as PGT, it is essential that the recommendation is not made automatically, but integrated into a coherent treatment plan. At Genesis Athens, the evaluation of possible preimplantation genetic testing can be discussed within the broader context of reproductive history, existing analyses, and the IVF strategy best suited to your case.

An important advantage is the multidisciplinary approach. In such situations, not only the laboratory procedure matters, but also the way clinical, embryological, and genetic data are interpreted. For patients, this approach means more clarity, better calibrated recommendations, and a realistic discussion about benefits, limitations, and next steps, without simplistic promises and without standardized decisions.

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Preimplantation Genetic Testing

If you have questions related to preimplantation genetic testing or you are concerned about your fertility, our patient support team is here to offer the support and guidance you need.

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Sources:

• ASRM – The use of preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy: a committee opinion (2024)
• ACOG – Preimplantation Genetic Testing
• ESHRE – Good practice recommendations for preimplantation genetic testing
• HFEA – Pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A)
• ACOG – Current guidance on prenatal screening and diagnosis after preimplantation genetic testing