PGT Testing Explained: What It Is, Who It’s For, and Whether It’s Right for You
If you’ve started IVF, you’ve probably heard your clinic mention PGT testing (Preimplantation Genetic Testing). For many people, it’s one of the most confusing parts of the fertility journey. You’re suddenly hearing new acronyms, trying to make important decisions, and wondering if this is something you really need.
As a Fertility Registered Nurse with more than 10 years of experience, I can tell you this: understanding your options makes all the difference. My goal is to help you feel informed—not overwhelmed.
What Is PGT Testing?
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a laboratory test performed on embryos created through IVF before they are transferred into the uterus.
A few cells are carefully removed from the outer layer of the embryo (the part that becomes the placenta), and those cells are analyzed to look for genetic abnormalities or specific inherited conditions.
The embryo itself remains frozen while the results are processed.
What Are the Different Types of PGT?
There are three main types:
PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy)
This is the most common type of embryo testing.
PGT-A looks to see if an embryo has the correct number of chromosomes. Humans should have 46 chromosomes. If an embryo has too many or too few, it may be less likely to implant or may result in miscarriage.
PGT-A may be recommended if you:
Are over age 35
Have experienced recurrent miscarriage
Have had multiple failed IVF transfers
Want to reduce the chance of transferring an embryo with a chromosome abnormality
PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders)
PGT-M is used when one or both parents carry a known inherited genetic condition.
Examples include:
Cystic Fibrosis
Sickle Cell Disease
Huntington’s Disease
Tay-Sachs Disease
Many other inherited disorders
This testing helps identify embryos that do not carry the specific condition being tested.
PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements)
Some people carry balanced chromosome rearrangements without knowing it. Although they’re healthy themselves, these rearrangements can increase the risk of miscarriage or embryos with chromosome abnormalities.
PGT-SR helps identify embryos that are more likely to have a normal chromosome structure.
Does PGT Guarantee a Healthy Baby?
This is one of the biggest misconceptions I hear.
The answer is no.
PGT can provide valuable information about an embryo’s chromosomes or specific genetic conditions, but it cannot guarantee implantation, pregnancy, or the birth of a healthy baby. There are many other factors involved, including embryo quality, uterine health, and overall reproductive health.
Is PGT Right for Everyone?
Not necessarily.
Some patients benefit greatly from PGT testing, while others may choose not to pursue it based on their age, diagnosis, number of embryos, personal beliefs, or financial considerations.
This is why it’s important to have an informed conversation with your fertility specialist about your individual situation.
Questions to Ask Your Fertility Clinic About PGT
If you’re considering embryo genetic testing, ask your clinic:
Why are you recommending PGT for me?
Which type of PGT would I be having?
How accurate is the testing?
What are the risks?
How long will results take?
Will my embryos remain frozen while waiting?
How might these results change my treatment plan?
You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
One of the hardest parts of fertility treatment isn’t just the medications or appointments—it’s trying to understand everything while making life-changing decisions.
That’s where I come in.
At Destination Conception, I help patients understand their treatment plans, organize their fertility journey, review medical records, prepare for IVF, and feel more confident before making important decisions. My role isn’t to replace your fertility doctor—it’s to help you understand the process so you can walk into appointments feeling prepared and empowered.
If PGT testing has left you with more questions than answers, I’d love to help you make sense of it.
You deserve to feel informed, supported, and confident every step of the way.
Jaclyn Iasnik, RN
Founder, Destination Conception
Fertility & Mental Health Registered Nurse
