Fertility Treatments

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)

Leading genetic screening technique that evaluates embryos for chromosomal normalcy before transfer during IVF, ensuring only the healthiest embryos are selected for implantation

What is PGT?

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a leading genetic screening technique performed at Palm Beach Fertility Center in Boca Raton and Aventura to evaluate embryos for chromosomal normalcy and genetic abnormalities before transfer during IVF. This advanced testing ensures that only the healthiest embryos are selected for implantation.

PGT allows our fertility specialists to analyze the genetic material within embryos created through IVF, helping detect chromosomal abnormalities that could cause miscarriage, failed implantation, or genetic disorders. By screening embryos before transfer, we can significantly improve your chances of a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby.

This comprehensive testing is performed on a small number of cells removed from each embryo on day 5 or 6 of development. The embryos are then frozen while genetic analysis is completed, and only chromosomally normal embryos are transferred in a subsequent cycle.

What PGT Does

PGT analyzes the chromosomes and genetic material of embryos to identify potential issues before transfer:

Detects Chromosomal Abnormalities

PGT-A (Aneuploidy) screens for the correct number of chromosomes, identifying embryos with too many or too few chromosomes—the leading cause of miscarriage and IVF failure

Identifies Genetic Disorders

PGT-M (Monogenic) tests for specific inherited genetic conditions like cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, or Huntington's disease when parents are known carriers

Screens for Structural Rearrangements

PGT-SR detects chromosomal translocations or inversions that could affect embryo viability or result in genetic conditions in offspring

Benefits of PGT

Reduces Risk of Genetic Conditions

Identifies embryos carrying genetic disorders, helping prevent passing on hereditary diseases to your child

Improves Implantation Success Rates

Selecting chromosomally normal embryos significantly increases the chance of successful implantation and pregnancy

Helps Prevent Miscarriage

Chromosomal abnormalities are the leading cause of first-trimester miscarriage; PGT dramatically reduces this risk

Reduces Failed IVF Cycles

By transferring only healthy embryos, PGT helps avoid failed transfers and shortens the time to pregnancy

Supports Family Planning

Helps carriers of known genetic diseases have healthy children without passing on hereditary conditions

Enables Single Embryo Transfer

Confidence in embryo quality allows for single embryo transfer, reducing multiple pregnancy risks while maintaining high success

Gender Selection & Family Balancing

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) can also be used for gender selection, sometimes referred to as family balancing, in appropriate clinical situations. During the IVF process, embryos are tested for chromosomal information before transfer. This testing allows patients, in consultation with their physician, to identify the chromosomal sex of embryos prior to transfer.

Gender selection through PGT is an option for some patients and may be considered for family balancing or for specific medical reasons. The decision to pursue gender selection is made on an individual basis, guided by medical, ethical, and regulatory considerations. Our team provides thorough counseling to ensure patients fully understand their options and responsibilities before proceeding.