What Is PGT? Understanding Preimplantation Genetic Testing in Surrogacy

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is an advanced technique used in IVF to screen embryos for specific genetic diseases or chromosomal abnormalities before implantation. By selecting embryos without these abnormalities, intended parents and clinics aim to increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy and reduce the risk of certain disorders.

How Does PGT Work? (With Diagram)

1. Ovarian Stimulation & Egg Retrieval: The intended mother or egg donor undergoes hormonal stimulation to produce eggs, which are then retrieved.
2. Fertilization: Eggs are fertilized with sperm in the lab, creating embryos.
3. Embryo Culture: Embryos develop in the lab up to the blastocyst stage (Day 5 or 6).
4. Embryo Biopsy: A few cells are carefully removed (biopsied) from each embryo. Most modern clinics use a laser to undertake the biopsy. The biopsied cells are typically taken from parts destined to become the placenta, not the foetus itself.
5. ​PGT Analysis: The cells are tested in a genetics lab using advanced techniques like Next-Generation Sequencing, which can check for specific genetic mutations or chromosome numbers.
6. Embryo Freezing: Embryos are frozen while awaiting genetic test results.
7. ​Transfer of Healthy Embryo(s): Only embryos without the screened genetic conditions and with the correct chromosome numbers are selected for transfer into the uterus.

Image: An overview of the PGT process, from IVF through embryo biopsy and transfer. ​

Types of PGT

• PGT-A: Tests for an abnormal number of chromosomes (aneuploidy) the most common PGT.
• ​PGT-M: Checks for single-gene (monogenic) disorders such as cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia.
• PGT-SR: Detects structural chromosomal rearrangements.​

International Views: PGT Use Around the World

Attitudes toward PGT vary widely:

• Some countries (e.g., the US, Spain, parts of Mexico, and Colombia): PGT is commonly offered, sometimes recommended even without a clear medical need.
• Others (e.g., Germany, Switzerland, France): Regulations are more restrictive, limiting use to cases with a serious genetic disease risk, due to concerns about ethics and possible eugenics.​
• Clinics in some countries almost always recommend PGT (for higher success rates and fewer miscarriages), while others reserve it for specific, high-risk situations

Does PGT Pose Risks to Embryos or Affect Success Rates?

Biopsy Stage Safety: PGT involves removing a small number of cells from the blastocyst. Research shows that, when performed by experienced embryologists, the risk of harming the embryo is low. The cells removed typically form the placenta, not the foetus. “PGT techniques have been refined to reduce the possibility of any damage to the embryo during the biopsy.” indoreinfertilityclinic+1​

Impact on Success Rates:

• Potential Benefits: PGT may reduce the risk of miscarriage or failed transfers by screening for common chromosomal issues.​
• Limitations: Some studies suggest PGT-A does not guarantee higher live birth rates for all patient groups. Professional guidelines advise that while PGT can be valuable, it does not increase success for every single IVF case.

PGT at KinPath Surrogacy: Informed Choice, Not Requirement

At KinPath, PGT is the only optional extra available in our fixed-fee surrogacy programs. All other critical costs are fully covered, but we believe in leaving the PGT decision to the intended parents after proper counselling about benefits and limitations.

Should You Consider PGT?

• PGT might be recommended if parents carry a known genetic disease, are of older maternal age, have experienced repeated miscarriages, or have had prior unsuccessful IVF cycles.
• Prospective parents should seek genetic counseling and talk with fertility specialists to weigh the costs, medical needs, and ethical considerations.​

In summary, PGT is a valuable tool in modern surrogacy and IVF, offering a way to screen embryos for certain genetic problems before pregnancy begins. Its use, however, is a personal decision, and KinPath Surrogacy supports families by making PGT accessible but never mandatory—so you can build your family with knowledge, confidence, and full transparency.

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