What Does PGT-A Test For? A Simple Guide to PGT Testing in IVF
If you’re starting IVF, you’ve probably come across PGT-A and wondered, “What does PGT-A test for and do I need it?” You’re not alone! This is one of the most common questions fertility patients have.
In this guide, we’ll break down what PGT-A actually looks for, how it works, and how it can help you during IVF (without the complicated medical jargon).
What Is PGT-A?
PGT-A stands for Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy. Basically, it’s a way to check your embryos during IVF to make sure they have the right number of chromosomes.
Why does this matter? Because embryos with missing or extra chromosomes often don’t implant, lead to miscarriage, or cause certain genetic conditions. PGT-A helps your doctor pick the strongest, healthiest embryo to transfer, which can improve your chances of a successful pregnancy.
What Does PGT-A Test For?
PGT-A focuses on counting chromosomes—it looks at all 23 pairs of chromosomes in each embryo and flags any that are too high or too low.
Here are some of the most common conditions caused by chromosome abnormalities that PGT-A can detect:
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Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21): extra copy of chromosome 21
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Turner Syndrome (Monosomy X): missing an X chromosome in females
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Klinefelter Syndrome (XXY): extra X chromosome in males
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Trisomy 13 (Patau Syndrome): extra chromosome 13
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Trisomy 18 (Edwards Syndrome): extra chromosome 18
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Triple X Syndrome (XXX): extra X chromosome in females
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XYY Syndrome: extra Y chromosome in males
Overall, PGT-A checks for missing or extra chromosomes across all 23 pairs. It’s like quality control for your embryos.
PGT-A vs. PGT-M: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy to mix these up!
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PGT-A = counts chromosomes, screens for aneuploidy (extra/missing chromosomes).
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PGT-M = tests for specific inherited diseases (like cystic fibrosis or Tay-Sachs).
If you’re asking “What does PGT-A test for?”—it’s about chromosome numbers, not inherited gene mutations.
How Does PGT-A Help During IVF?
PGT-A can make a big difference in your IVF journey. Here’s how:
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Improves embryo selection – helps choose the healthiest embryo
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Increases chances of implantation – higher chance the embryo “sticks”
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Lowers risk of miscarriage – fewer chromosomal issues mean fewer losses
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Fewer IVF cycles overall – better embryo selection can save time and money
It’s a helpful tool, especially if you’ve had previous IVF failures, miscarriages, or are trying to conceive at age 35 or older.
Should I Do PGT-A?
Your fertility doctor is the best person to answer this, but here’s when PGT-A is commonly recommended:
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You’ve had multiple miscarriages
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You’ve experienced failed IVF cycles
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You’re 35 or older
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You want to reduce the chance of genetic issues before transfer
It’s not mandatory, but many patients find the extra information reassuring.
The Bottom Line
If you’ve been asking “what does PGT-A test for?”—the simple answer is: it screens embryos for chromosome problems that could impact your chances of a healthy pregnancy. It can give you more peace of mind and more control over your IVF journey.
Curious if PGT-A is right for you? Talk to our fertility team about your options today!