Adding PGT To The IVF Roadmap
There’s a common misconception that in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment is a guaranteed solution for infertility. Here’s the truth. Almost all IVF patients experience at least 1 failed cycle. Statistics show the average couple requires at least 4-6 cycles for a successful live birth. The success rates per cycle may even decrease with age. IVF is an innovative solution but not a magic bullet. However, there are ways to significantly improve results, especially when couples are struggling with multiple failed IVF cycles. Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can help fertility clinics identify genetic abnormalities impacting IVF and make decisions to improve outcomes.
What is PGT anyway?
As the name implies, PGT allows the fertility clinic to review the genetic makeup of embryos during the IVF process. These tests are performed by placing a sample of the embryo under a microscope and using patented technology before implantation. Science and technology have advanced to the point where doctors and technicians can identify multiple genetic abnormalities that may lead to failed implantations, miscarriages, or premature births. Most doctors test for aneuploidy (PGT-A), which helps determine the correct 46 chromosomal makeup. Too many or too few can lead to miscarriages or birth challenges like Down Syndrome. There is also preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders (PGT-M) that identifies a gene or condition the couple is known to carry. These tests set the stage for the highest chance of a healthy pregnancy.
Who can benefit from this innovation?
PGT is not a requirement for all IVF cases. Most successful IVF cycles occur without the need for genetic testing. However, there are cases where PGT can be used. The most appropriate situation is for couples with multiple failed IVF cycles or miscarriages. If there is no apparent reason for these failed cycles, PGT can help. Women at an advanced maternal age may benefit from PGT. As egg quality diminishes with age, PGT can identify the best embryos, helping to gain peace of mind while improving pregnancy rates. Couples with a history of genetic disorders or miscarriages or those who wish to optimize the IVF process can include PGT in the overall treatment.
What do the numbers say?
PGT can be helpful in certain situations and even increase pregnancy rates. Statistics show that live birth rates were unaffected by PGT in women younger than 35. However, women over 35 showed a noticeable increase in successful pregnancies. For instance, between 2014-2018, women aged 38-40 had a 31.4% live birth rate with PGT compared to 24.4% without the test. From age 41, the results were 18.1% versus 11.4%. With IVF, every advantage counts. PGT may increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy in older patients while reducing the number of IVF cycles. While there is renewed peace of mind, there are still risks, such as embryo damage, emotional impacts, and cost factors.
The difference-maker is PGT
In vitro fertilization has transformed the lives of couples struggling with infertility for years. However, there are still cases that experience failed IVF cycles or struggle to stay pregnant. PGT is a tool that helps us get closer to the root cause of the failed cycles. Genetic testing also identifies potential issues based on a family history of genetic disorders. While not a crystal ball, the strategy increases the predictive power of the fertility team. As a result, the healthiest embryos are used in each subsequent cycle. PGT can create a brighter outlook for expectant parents, especially those who are struggling in the IVF process.