PGT-A examines sampled embryo cells for differences in chromosome number. It may inform embryo-transfer decisions in some situations, but its benefits and limitations need to be considered individually. This guide explains the process and the questions to discuss before testing.

How it works

  1. Embryos grow to the blastocyst stage (day 5–6)
  2. A few cells are taken from the outer layer, which later forms the placenta
  3. The embryos are frozen while the lab analyzes the cells
  4. An embryo reported as euploid (normal chromosome number) may be chosen for a frozen transfer

Who may benefit

  • Women over about 37–38, when chromosomal errors become more common
  • Couples with recurrent miscarriage
  • Repeated implantation failure with good-looking embryos
  • Surrogacy programs, where it may help reduce the number of transfers — decided case by case

PGT-M and PGT-SR

If a parent carries a specific genetic disease (PGT-M) or a chromosome rearrangement (PGT-SR), embryos can be tested for that condition. This requires preparation before IVF.

Limits

  • It does not improve the quality of an embryo — it only selects
  • Results can be mosaic (a mix of normal and abnormal cells), non-informative or occasionally inaccurate; a genetic counselor explains what each result means
  • Some cycles end with no embryo suitable for transfer, more often at older ages; prenatal testing options are still discussed in pregnancy
  • It adds cost and requires a frozen transfer

What about choosing the baby’s sex?

Armenian law (Article 11(3)) prohibits sex selection except where there is a risk of a sex-linked inherited disease or the family already has three children of the same sex. We coordinate PGT only within these legal limits.

Current evidence (ASRM, 2024) does not show that routine PGT-A improves the overall chance of a live birth for all IVF patients. Your doctor and a genetic counselor will advise whether it makes sense in your case. Request a free consultation · repeated IVF failure

Sources and Last Update

Sources: ASRM Practice Committee: The use of preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (2024); Law of the Republic of Armenia on Human Reproductive Health and Reproductive Rights (arlis.am).

Last updated: 14 October 2026. This article is general information, not medical or legal advice; your doctor assesses your individual situation.

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