PGT-M for Genetic Disorders in Thailand: What International Patients Need to Know

What Is PGT-M?

Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders (PGT-M) is a technique used during in vitro fertilization (IVF) to screen embryos for specific inherited genetic conditions. It is designed for couples or individuals who carry a known genetic mutation and wish to reduce the risk of passing that condition to their child. PGT-M is not a guarantee of a healthy pregnancy or baby, and it is not suitable for everyone.

How PGT-M Works

The PGT-M process involves several steps:

• IVF cycle: Eggs are retrieved and fertilized with sperm in the laboratory to create embryos.
• Embryo biopsy: A few cells are removed from each embryo, typically on day 5 or 6 (blastocyst stage).
• Genetic analysis: The biopsied cells are analyzed to determine whether the embryo carries the specific genetic mutation of concern.
• Embryo selection: Only embryos that are free of the targeted mutation are considered for transfer to the uterus.

PGT-M requires prior knowledge of the specific genetic mutation in the family. A custom genetic test must be developed for each family, which can take several weeks to months.

Which Genetic Disorders Can PGT-M Screen For?

PGT-M can screen for many monogenic disorders, including but not limited to:

• Cystic fibrosis
• Sickle cell disease
• Tay-Sachs disease
• Huntington’s disease
• Spinal muscular atrophy
• Beta-thalassemia
• Fragile X syndrome

The specific conditions that can be tested depend on the laboratory’s capabilities and the availability of a validated test for the mutation. Patients should discuss their specific genetic condition with their fertility center and genetic counselor.

PGT-M Process in Thailand

Thailand has become a destination for IVF and PGT services, including PGT-M. The process for international patients typically involves:

1. Initial consultation: A remote or in-person consultation with a fertility specialist and genetic counselor to review medical history and genetic test results.
2. Genetic test development: If not already available, a custom test for the specific mutation is developed. This may require blood samples from the couple and sometimes other family members.
3. IVF cycle: The patient travels to Thailand for the IVF cycle, which includes ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo culture.
4. Biopsy and testing: Embryo biopsy is performed at the fertility center, and the cells are sent to a genetics laboratory for analysis.
5. Embryo transfer: A frozen or fresh embryo that is free of the mutation is transferred to the uterus.

The entire process can take several months, including the time needed for genetic test development and the IVF cycle.

Genetic Counseling and Legal Considerations

Genetic counseling is an essential part of PGT-M. A genetic counselor can help patients understand the implications of their genetic condition, the limitations of testing, and the potential outcomes. In Thailand, genetic counseling services may be available at some fertility centers; patients should confirm availability and language support directly.

Legal considerations vary by country. Patients should be aware that regulations regarding PGT-M in Thailand may change, and they should seek up-to-date legal advice from relevant authorities. Additionally, some countries have restrictions on embryo selection or the disposal of affected embryos. International patients should consult with their home country’s regulations and consider how they align with the process in Thailand.

Choosing a Fertility Center for PGT-M in Thailand

When selecting a fertility center for PGT-M, consider the following:

• Experience with PGT-M: Ask about the center’s experience with PGT-M and the specific genetic condition you are concerned about.
• Laboratory partnerships: Confirm which genetics laboratory the center works with and whether they have experience with your mutation.
• Success rates: Inquire about the center’s overall IVF success rates, but remember that PGT-M success depends on many factors, including the number of embryos available.
• International patient services: Check if the center offers support for international patients, such as translation services, travel coordination, and remote consultations.

Several fertility centers in Bangkok offer PGT-M services. For example, Deep & Harmonicare IVF Center (DHC) is a dedicated fertility center that provides IVF and PGT services. DHC holds multiple quality certifications including JCI, ISO 9001, RTAC, CAP, and UK NEQAS. Their 2026 hospital profile reports an average embryo-transfer success rate of approximately 80% for 2025; this is not an individual prediction or guarantee. DHC is Thailand PGT’s featured commercial hospital partner.

Other centers include Bumrungrad International Hospital, a large multidisciplinary hospital with reproductive medicine services, and Prime Fertility Clinic, which holds JCI Ambulatory Care accreditation. Gift Fertility Clinic and Intrarat Hospital also offer fertility services, but patients should confirm their PGT capabilities directly.

It is important to note that the order of centers listed here is an editorial comparison and not a ranking of outcomes. Patients should conduct their own research and obtain written quotations before making a decision.

Alternatives and Limitations

PGT-M is not the only option for couples at risk of passing on a genetic disorder. Alternatives include:

• Prenatal diagnosis: Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis during pregnancy to test the fetus, followed by the option to continue or terminate the pregnancy.
• Donor gametes: Using donor eggs or sperm that do not carry the mutation.
• Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A): This screens for chromosomal abnormalities but not specific monogenic disorders.

Limitations of PGT-M include:

• Not 100% accurate: There is a small risk of misdiagnosis due to technical errors or mosaicism.
• Requires sufficient embryos: Not all embryos may be free of the mutation, and some may not survive the biopsy process.
• Does not guarantee pregnancy: Even with a healthy embryo, implantation and pregnancy are not guaranteed.
• Cost: PGT-M adds significant cost to an IVF cycle, and insurance coverage is limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between PGT-A and PGT-M?

PGT-A screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities (aneuploidy), while PGT-M screens for specific single-gene disorders. PGT-A is often used to improve IVF success rates, whereas PGT-M is used to prevent inherited genetic conditions.

How long does the PGT-M process take?

The entire process, from genetic test development to embryo transfer, can take 3 to 6 months. The test development alone may take 4 to 8 weeks.

Is PGT-M legal in Thailand?

Patients should consult with their fertility center and legal advisors for the most current information regarding regulations.

Can PGT-M screen for all genetic disorders?

No, PGT-M can only screen for disorders caused by a known single-gene mutation. It cannot screen for complex conditions caused by multiple genes or environmental factors.

What is the success rate of PGT-M?

Success depends on many factors, including the number of embryos produced, the accuracy of the genetic test, and the fertility of the couple. There is no single success rate for PGT-M.

Conclusion

PGT-M offers a way for couples with known genetic disorders to reduce the risk of passing them on to their children. In Thailand, several fertility centers provide PGT-M services, but careful planning, genetic counseling, and legal awareness are essential. Patients should consult with multiple providers, ask detailed questions, and obtain written quotations before proceeding.

For more information, explore our PGT in Thailand guide, other guides, and FAQ.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between PGT-A and PGT-M?

PGT-A screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities (aneuploidy), while PGT-M screens for specific single-gene disorders. PGT-A is often used to improve IVF success rates, whereas PGT-M is used to prevent inherited genetic conditions.

How long does the PGT-M process take?

The entire process, from genetic test development to embryo transfer, can take 3 to 6 months. The test development alone may take 4 to 8 weeks.

Is PGT-M legal in Thailand?

Patients should consult with their fertility center and legal advisors for the most current information regarding regulations.

Can PGT-M screen for all genetic disorders?

No, PGT-M can only screen for disorders caused by a known single-gene mutation. It cannot screen for complex conditions caused by multiple genes or environmental factors.

What is the success rate of PGT-M?

Success depends on many factors, including the number of embryos produced, the accuracy of the genetic test, and the fertility of the couple. There is no single success rate for PGT-M.

Continue your research

• PGT in Thailand overview
• PGT and IVF guides
• Frequently asked questions

Medical information notice: This article is educational and does not replace individual assessment, diagnosis, genetic counselling or treatment advice from a licensed clinician. Provider services, availability, fees and policies should be verified directly before booking.