Preparing for PGT: What to expect before, during, and after the procedure?

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a sophisticated procedure used in conjunction with in-vitro fertilization (IVF) to screen embryos for genetic abnormalities before they are implanted into the uterus. For many couples facing fertility challenges, genetic disorders, or recurrent miscarriages, PGT offers a path toward a healthier pregnancy and baby. In this blog, we’ll explore the process of preparing for PGT, breaking it down into what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

Before the PGT procedure

1. Consultation and Genetic counseling The journey to PGT starts with a thorough consultation with your fertility specialist and a genetic counselor. This initial meeting is crucial for understanding the reasons behind considering PGT. You’ll discuss:

• Family history of genetic conditions.
• The results of any prior genetic testing.
• The potential impact of age on genetics of embryos
• Fertility challenges or recurrent pregnancy losses.

This step ensures that both you and your partner are fully informed about the benefits , limitations and risks of the procedure. Your genetic counselor will explain the types of PGT available, such as PGT-A (for aneuploidy), PGT-M (for monogenic disorders), and PGT-SR (for chromosomal structural rearrangements), and help decide which one suits your needs.

1. IVF preparation PGT is performed as part of an IVF cycle. Therefore, the next step involves preparing for IVF. This includes:

• Ovarian stimulation: You will be given hormone injections to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs in one cycle.
• Bavishi Fertility Institute gives you a unique opportunity to undergo ivf without any hormonal injections.
• Egg retrieval: After stimulation, your eggs are retrieved through a minor surgical procedure under sedation.

1. Sperm collection On the day of the egg retrieval, your partner will provide a sperm sample. If necessary, sperm may be retrieved via surgical methods or from a previously frozen sample.
2. Fertilization and Embryo development Once the eggs are retrieved, they will be fertilized with sperm in the laboratory through Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). The fertilized eggs (embryos) are then cultured and monitored for several days, typically up to day 5 or 6, until they reach the blastocyst stage, which is ideal for biopsy and PGT.

During the PGT procedure

1. Embryo biopsy After the embryos have developed to the blastocyst stage, a small sample of cells is taken from each embryo. This is called an embryo biopsy and is the key step in the PGT process. The biopsy involves removing a few cells from the outer layer of the embryo (which eventually forms the placenta), leaving the inner cell mass (which becomes the baby) intact. This procedure is done with minimal risk to the embryo and does not affect its ability to implant.
2. Genetic testing in the lab The biopsied cells are sent to a specialized genetic lab, where they undergo analysis to check for chromosomal abnormalities or specific genetic mutations, depending on the type of PGT being performed. This testing can take anywhere from a few days to a week.
3. Embryo freezing While the testing is being conducted, the embryos are frozen (cryopreserved) for later use. Cryopreservation ensures the embryos remain viable until the PGT results are available and the transfer can be scheduled.

Bavishi Fertility Institute offers a unique opportunity of fresh embryo transfer in PGT A patients. Our logistics and testing partners give results of genetic testing in a day making it possible to do fresh embryo transfer.

After the PGT procedure

1. Receiving the results Once the genetic testing is completed, you will meet with your fertility specialist and genetic counselor to review the results. The embryos will be categorized as genetically normal (euploid), abnormal (aneuploid), or, in some rare cases, inconclusive. Based on these results, the specialist will recommend the best embryos for transfer.
2. Embryo transfer After PGT, the healthiest embryo(s) will be selected for transfer. The transfer procedure is relatively simple:

• You will come to the clinic, and the selected embryo(s) will be thawed and transferred into your uterus.
• This procedure is painless and typically takes only a few minutes.

The remaining healthy embryos, if any, can be frozen for future use.

1. Post-transfer monitoring After the embryo transfer, you will undergo blood tests to monitor hormone levels and confirm whether implantation has occurred. Approximately 10–14 days after the transfer, a blood test will be conducted to determine if the procedure was successful, i.e., if pregnancy has been achieved.
2. Managing expectations It’s important to recognize that while PGT increases the chances of a successful pregnancy by selecting healthy embryos, it does not guarantee pregnancy. Some embryos may not implant, and some pregnancies may not progress. However, by reducing the risk of genetic abnormalities, PGT can help improve the overall success rate of IVF.

Conclusion

PGT is a powerful tool in the IVF process, helping to ensure that only the healthiest embryos are selected for transfer. While the procedure involves several steps and careful preparation, the potential benefits, especially for couples with genetic concerns or fertility challenges, are significant. By understanding what to expect before, during, and after PGT, you can approach the process with confidence and optimism. At Bavishi Fertility Institute, we are dedicated to helping you every step of the way, offering state-of-the-art technology and compassionate care throughout your fertility journey. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward building your family with confidence.

For personalised advice tailored to your test results and diagnosis, book a consultation with our specialists at Bavishi Fertility Institute.