Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)

Bangkok IVF Center (BIC) is an international-standard fertility center that integrates Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) into the IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) and ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) processes. This technology allows for the diagnosis of genetic abnormalities in embryos with 95–99% accuracy before they are transferred back into the uterus. This ensures that only healthy, genetically normal embryos are selected, helping to avoid complications and reducing the need for late-stage medical interventions.

What is PGT?

PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Testing) is a laboratory procedure used to analyze the genetic makeup of embryos created through assisted reproductive technology (ART). By screening embryos before implantation, clinicians can identify those with normal genetics to ensure a healthy start to life.

Types of Genetic Testing at BIC

At Bangkok IVF Center, we provide three specialized types of PGT to address different genetic concerns:

1. PGT-A (Aneuploidies)

Formerly known as PGS (Preimplantation Genetic Screening), PGT-A screens all 23 pairs of chromosomes for numerical abnormalities. Using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, we can detect common chromosomal disorders such as:

Down Syndrome: An extra copy of chromosome 21 (Trisomy 21).

Patau Syndrome: An extra copy of chromosome 13 (Trisomy 13).

Edward Syndrome: An extra copy of chromosome 18 (Trisomy 18).

Sex Chromosome Abnormalities: Disorders related to the X and Y chromosomes.

Who is PGT-A for?

Couples with a family history of chromosomal abnormalities.

Couples who have previously had a child with a genetic disorder.

Couples with a history of two or more miscarriages.

Women aged 35 years or older.

Couples who have undergone two or more unsuccessful IVF/ICSI cycles.

2. PGT-M (Monogenic/Single Gene Disease)

Previously known as PGD (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis), PGT-M focuses on specific hereditary diseases caused by a single gene mutation. This test identifies embryos that are free from the disease or are non-affected carriers, preventing the transmission of:

Autosomal Recessive Disorders: Such as Thalassemia and Cystic Fibrosis (where both parents must pass on the gene).

Autosomal Dominant Disorders: Such as Achondroplasia (dwarfism) and Huntington’s Disease (where only one affected parent is needed to pass the gene).

X-linked Disorders: Such as Hemophilia, Color Blindness, and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).

Who is PGT-M for?

Families with a known history of specific genetic diseases.

Couples where one or both partners are carriers of a single-gene disorder.

Couples who have previously had a child with a hereditary condition.

3. PGT-SR (Structural Rearrangement)

PGT-SR is used to detect chromosomal structural abnormalities, such as translocations (where pieces of chromosomes break off and reattach to different chromosomes). Even if a parent appears healthy (balanced translocation), their reproductive cells may have missing or extra genetic material (unbalanced), leading to non-viable embryos. PGT-SR significantly reduces miscarriage rates and increases the chances of a successful live birth.

Who is PGT-SR for?

Couples with a known chromosomal translocation or inversion.

Couples with a history of recurrent miscarriages (2+ times) due to chromosomal issues or unexplained factors.