If you’re planning to go through IVF, Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A) is an advanced technique that can improve your chances of having a healthy pregnancy. This testing checks embryos for chromosomal issues before transferring them to the womb, helping to reduce the risk of miscarriage and improve overall success rates. In Malaysia, PGT-A is becoming increasingly popular among couples seeking better outcomes from IVF.

Here’s a simple breakdown of the four main steps involved in PGT-A.

1. Consultation

The journey begins with consultation, where you meet with a fertility doctor to discuss your medical history, any challenges you’ve faced, and how PGT-A can fit into your IVF treatment plan.

During this meeting, your doctor will explain the process in detail, answer your questions, and help you understand whether PGT-A is the right option for you. This step is all about gathering the information you need to make an informed decision.

2. IVF cycle and embryo creation stage

Next is the IVF cycle and embryo creation stage. After stimulating your ovaries to produce multiple eggs, the eggs are retrieved and fertilized in the lab. The embryos are then cultured until they reach the blastocyst stage, typically by Day 5 or 6.

At this stage, a small number of cells are carefully removed from each embryo in a procedure called a biopsy. This biopsy is done without harming the embryos, ensuring they continue to grow normally.

3. Genetic Testing

The third step is genetic testing. The cells collected during the biopsy are sent to a laboratory where they are tested for chromosomal abnormalities. This testing helps identify the healthiest embryos with the best chance of leading to a successful pregnancy.

If there are concerns about genetic issues or a history of miscarriage, this step is particularly important. Results usually take two to three weeks, and these results guide the doctor in deciding which embryos are suitable for transfer.

4. Embryo Transfer Cycle

The final step is the embryo transfer cycle. The embryos identified as healthy are frozen after biopsy, and the PGT-A testing would take between two to three weeks.

Patients are usually suggested to go through two menstrual cycles before doing frozen embryo transfer. This is to stabilise the womb to allow optimum implantation potential.

By freezing the embryos, you also have the flexibility to plan your transfer at a time that works best for you.

Key Takeaways

The information above provides a clear understanding of how PGT-A works and how it can enhance the effectiveness of IVF. By testing embryos before transfer, PGT-A increases the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy while reducing the risk of complications.

If you’re considering IVF in Malaysia, consult with the top IVF doctors in Kuala Lumpur at a top IVF center in Kuala Lumpur to discuss how PGT-A can support your journey to parenthood. With expert guidance and advanced care, your dream of starting a family is closer than ever.