Last Updated: February 27, 2026
Last Updated: February 27, 2026
PGT for couples with recurrent IVF failure or Miscarriages: Does it help?
At Bavishi Fertility Institute, we have extensive experience in evaluating and treating couples facing recurrent IVF failure and recurrent pregnancy loss. Our team of experienced fertility specialists, embryologists, and genetic experts combines advanced IVF laboratory technology, precision embryo assessment, and personalized treatment protocols to address the root causes of repeated implantation failure and miscarriages.
Repeated IVF failures or pregnancy losses can be emotionally devastating and medically challenging. Many couples who produce good-quality embryos still fail to achieve a successful pregnancy, leading to frustration and uncertainty. One of the most common underlying causes in such cases is chromosomal abnormalities in embryos. This is where Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) plays a critical role in improving clinical decision-making and treatment outcomes.
Understanding whether PGT is appropriate, how it works, and what results couples can realistically expect is essential for long-term fertility success.
What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)?
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is an advanced genetic screening technique performed during an IVF cycle to assess the chromosomal or genetic health of embryos before they are transferred into the uterus.
During IVF, embryos are cultured in the laboratory until the blastocyst stage (day 5 or 6). A small number of cells are carefully biopsied from the outer layer of the embryo (trophectoderm), which later forms the placenta. These cells are then analysed in specialised genetic laboratories using highly advanced technologies such as Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS).
Only embryos that are found to be genetically normal are selected for transfer, significantly reducing the risk of implantation failure and miscarriage.
Types of PGT and Their clinical relevance
PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy)
PGT-A screens embryos for abnormal numbers of chromosomes. Humans normally have 46 chromosomes. Embryos with missing or extra chromosomes (aneuploid embryos) often fail to implant or result in miscarriage.
PGT-A is especially useful in:
- Recurrent IVF failure.
- Recurrent miscarriages.
- Advanced maternal age.
- Poor embryo development history.
PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders)
PGT-M is used when one or both partners carry a known genetic disorder such as:
- Thalassemia
- Cystic fibrosis.
- Sickle cell disease.
- Certain inherited metabolic disorders
This test ensures that embryos affected by the condition are not transferred.
PGT-SR (Structural Rearrangements)
PGT-SR is recommended when one partner has chromosomal structural abnormalities such as balanced translocations or inversions. These rearrangements may not affect the parent but can lead to repeated miscarriages or failed IVF cycles.
Understanding recurrent IVF failure and Recurrent miscarriages
Recurrent IVF failure
Recurrent IVF failure is commonly defined as failure to achieve pregnancy after two or more IVF cycles despite transferring good-quality embryos.
Possible causes include:
- Embryo chromosomal abnormalities.
- Poor endometrial receptivity.
- Immunological factors.
- Undiagnosed uterine abnormalities.
Recurrent pregnancy loss
Recurrent miscarriage is generally defined as two or more consecutive pregnancy losses, often occurring in the first trimester.
Studies show that 50–70% of early miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities in embryos, making genetic testing a crucial component of evaluation.
Does PGT help in recurrent IVF failure or miscarriages?
Yes, PGT can be highly beneficial for carefully selected couples, particularly when repeated failures are suspected to be genetically driven.
How PGT improves outcomes?
- Identifies euploid (chromosomally normal) embryos.
- Reduces transfer of embryos with less implantation potential .
- Lowers miscarriage risk.
- Improves confidence in embryo selection.
- Reduces emotional and physical burden of repeated failures.
- Helps optimize single embryo transfer strategies.
However, it is important to understand that PGT is not a guarantee of pregnancy, but rather a powerful tool to improve the probability of success per transfer.
PGT success rates in recurrent IVF failure and Miscarriage cases
Clinical studies and real-world data indicate that:
- Couples with recurrent IVF failure often have a higher proportion of aneuploid embryos.
- PGT-A reduces miscarriage rates by up to 50–60% per embryo transfer in appropriate cases.
- Implantation rates per transfer improve when only euploid embryos are transferred.
- Time to pregnancy may be shorter compared to repeated untested transfers.
Who should consider PGT?
PGT is not recommended for every IVF patient but may be strongly advised for couples with:
- Two or more failed IVF cycles.
- Two or more miscarriages.
- Advanced maternal age. (≥35 years)
- Known genetic disorders in either partner.
- Abnormal karyotype in one partner.
- Severe male factor infertility.
- Previous embryos with abnormal genetic reports.
Individualised counselling is essential before proceeding.
Signs that genetic factors may be affecting IVF outcomes
PGT may be considered if couples experience:
- Repeated failure despite high-quality embryos.
- Early miscarriages with no clear uterine cause.
- Abnormal chromosomal reports from previous pregnancy losses.
- Unexplained infertility with repeated negative outcomes.
Early genetic evaluation prevents unnecessary repetition of ineffective treatments.
Step-by-Step process of PGT during IVF
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation
Hormonal medications are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs. - Egg Retrieval
Mature eggs are collected from the ovaries through a minimally invasive procedure. - Egg and Sperm Preparation
Collected eggs and sperm are carefully prepared in the laboratory for fertilisation. - Egg Fertilisation (with PGT Testing)
Eggs are fertilised using IVF/ICSI. Embryos are cultured to the blastocyst stage, biopsied for PGT, and frozen while genetic analysis is performed. - Embryo Transfer
A genetically normal embryo is selected and transferred into the prepared uterus. - Pregnancy
Successful implantation leads to pregnancy, which is confirmed and monitored.
This staged approach improves both embryo selection and uterine receptivity.
Limitations and Considerations of PGT
While PGT offers many advantages, couples should be aware of:
- PGT cannot detect all genetic abnormalities.
- Mosaic embryos (embryos where only partial genetic material is normal) may present complex decision-making.
- Adequate number of embryos is required.
- Additional cost and laboratory time.
- Emotional expectations must be managed realistically.
Ethical counselling and transparent communication are essential.
Conclusion
PGT is a powerful diagnostic and therapeutic tool for couples facing recurrent IVF failure or miscarriages due to genetic causes. While it does not guarantee pregnancy, it significantly improves embryo selection, reduces miscarriage risk, and enhances the efficiency of IVF treatment in appropriately selected cases.
At Bavishi Fertility Institute, we follow an evidence-based, ethical, and personalised approach to PGT. Our experienced team ensures that every couple receives thorough evaluation, genetic counselling, and treatment planning aligned with their fertility goals and long-term wellbeing.
If you have experienced repeated IVF failures or miscarriages and are considering PGT, consult our fertility specialists for expert guidance and personalised care. We are committed to supporting you at every step of your fertility journey.
Author Bio
Dr. Parth Bavishi
Dr. Parth Bavishi, MD in Obstetrics and Gynecology, brings over 12 years of invaluable work experience to his role as Director of Bavishi Fertility Institute, leading a group of IVF clinics committed to helping couples realise their dreams of parenthood.
Bavishi Fertility Institute is dedicated to provide customised and personalised treatments which are simple, safe , smart and successful. Bavishi Fertility Institute works with success and satisfaction for all at heart. Providing an ideal blend of professional treatment and personalised care.
Dr. Parth had special training in infertility at Bavishi fertility Institute, the Diamond Institute, USA, and the HART Institute, Japan.
Dr. Bavishi is a distinguished expert in his field. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr.Bavishi is the author of the acclaimed book, ‘Your Miracle in Making: A Couple’s Guide to Pregnancy,’ offering invaluable insights to couples navigating the complexities of fertility. He loves to empower patients to make the correct choice by education both online and offline.
His exceptional contributions have earned him the prestigious Rose of Paracelsus award from the European Medical Association. Dr. Parth has been an invited faculty at many national and international conferences.
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Supporting Couples Through Recurrent IVF Failure & Miscarriage
Yes. Even visually good-quality embryos may have hidden chromosomal abnormalities that cannot be detected under the microscope. PGT helps uncover these genetic issues, offering clarity when implantation repeatedly fails without an obvious reason.
Yes. Some chromosomal abnormalities allow early development and heartbeat but result in miscarriage later. PGT helps reduce this risk by selecting embryos with normal chromosomal makeup.
Yes. When a genetically normal embryo is available, doctors often recommend single embryo transfer to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy while maintaining high success rates.
No. Embryos undergoing PGT are vitrified using advanced freezing techniques. Survival rates after thawing are very high when performed in experienced IVF laboratories.
It can be performed, but the decision must be individualised. If very few embryos are available, doctors may discuss whether PGT will provide meaningful benefit in that specific situation.
Yes. Genetic counselling helps couples understand the scope, accuracy, limitations, and possible outcomes of PGT, ensuring informed and ethical decision-making.
Yes. PGT findings may influence decisions related to embryo transfer timing, number of embryos to transfer, or whether further stimulation cycles are needed.
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