Understanding PGT IVF Success Rates in Thailand: What the Numbers Really Mean

When you’re researching IVF in Thailand, you’ll often see success rates quoted alongside preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). But what do these numbers really mean? PGT can help identify embryos with the correct number of chromosomes or without a specific genetic condition, potentially improving the chances of a successful pregnancy. However, success rates are not a guarantee, and they depend on many factors, including your age, the reason for testing, and the clinic’s laboratory standards. This guide explains how PGT relates to IVF success in Thailand, what to look for in clinic data, and the questions to ask before you commit.

At a Glance: PGT and IVF Success

• PGT-A screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities, which are more common with older maternal age.
• PGT-M and PGT-SR are used for specific genetic conditions or chromosomal rearrangements.
• Success rates vary widely by patient profile; no clinic can guarantee a live birth.
• Ask clinics for their own data, broken down by age and testing type.

What Is PGT and How Does It Affect IVF Success?

Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is performed on embryos created through IVF before transfer. There are three main types:

• PGT-A (aneuploidy screening) checks for the correct number of chromosomes. Embryos with an abnormal number (aneuploid) often fail to implant or miscarry.
• PGT-M (monogenic disorders) looks for specific single-gene conditions, such as cystic fibrosis or thalassemia, when one or both parents carry a known mutation.
• PGT-SR (structural rearrangements) is used when a parent has a chromosomal rearrangement, like a translocation, which can lead to unbalanced chromosomes in embryos.

By selecting embryos that are likely to be chromosomally normal or free of a specific condition, PGT may reduce the risk of miscarriage and increase the chance of a successful pregnancy per transfer. However, it does not guarantee a live birth, and not all patients need PGT.

Factors That Influence PGT IVF Success Rates

Success rates with PGT are not a single number. They depend on several key factors:

• Maternal age: The proportion of chromosomally normal embryos declines with age. Younger women typically have more normal embryos, which can improve the odds per transfer.
• Reason for PGT: PGT-A for general screening may have different outcomes than PGT-M for a specific genetic condition, where the goal is to avoid a particular disease.
• Embryo quality and development: Embryos that reach the blastocyst stage (day 5-6) and are graded well are more likely to be viable.
• Laboratory standards: The accuracy of PGT depends on the biopsy technique, genetic laboratory, and embryo culture conditions. Ask about the clinic’s experience and quality controls.
• Number of embryos available: Not all embryos will survive the biopsy and freezing process, and some may be abnormal. A larger cohort gives more options.

How to Interpret Clinic Success Rates

When comparing IVF clinics in Thailand, you’ll see success rates reported in different ways. Some may report pregnancy rates per embryo transfer, while others use live birth rates. For PGT, the most meaningful metric is often the live birth rate per transfer of a tested embryo, but this can be misleading if the clinic only transfers embryos after extensive screening.

Here are some questions to ask when reviewing clinic data:

• What is your live birth rate per transfer for patients in my age group?
• How many PGT cycles have you performed, and what is your experience with my specific type of testing?
• What is your embryo survival rate after biopsy and freezing?
• Do you report outcomes separately for PGT-A, PGT-M, and PGT-SR?
• What is your cancellation rate (cycles that do not reach transfer)?

Remember that success rates are retrospective and may not reflect your individual situation. A clinic with a high success rate may have a selective patient population.

PGT in Thailand: What to Consider

Thailand has become a popular destination for IVF and PGT due to its advanced medical facilities and relatively lower costs compared to Western countries. However, there is no official national registry that publishes standardized success rates for all clinics. This means you must rely on clinic-reported data, which may not be independently verified.

When choosing a clinic, consider:

• Accreditation: Look for international accreditations, such as from the Joint Commission International (JCI), which indicate adherence to quality standards.
• Laboratory quality: Ask about the genetic laboratory used for PGT. Is it on-site or outsourced? What are their quality controls?
• Doctor’s experience: How many PGT cycles has your doctor performed? What is their approach to embryo transfer?
• Patient support: Do they offer counseling to help you understand the implications of PGT results?

Limitations and Alternatives to PGT

PGT is not a guarantee of a healthy baby. It has limitations:

• PGT-A cannot detect all chromosomal abnormalities, and some embryos may be mosaic (a mix of normal and abnormal cells).
• PGT-M and PGT-SR require prior genetic testing of the parents to identify the specific mutation or rearrangement.
• There is a small risk of embryo damage during biopsy, though this is rare in experienced labs.
• PGT does not eliminate the risk of birth defects or genetic conditions that are not tested.

Alternatives to PGT include:

• IVF without PGT: For younger women or those without known genetic risks, transferring embryos without testing may be appropriate.
• Prenatal testing: After pregnancy, tests like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling can diagnose certain conditions.
• Donor embryos or gametes: If PGT is not an option, using donor eggs or sperm may reduce the risk of genetic disorders.

Questions to Ask Your Clinic

Before deciding on PGT in Thailand, prepare a list of questions for your consultation:

• What is your success rate for PGT cycles in my age group?
• How many embryos typically reach the biopsy stage?
• What is your policy on mosaic embryos?
• How long does it take to get PGT results?
• What are the costs for PGT, and are there any additional fees for genetic counseling?
• Do you have a genetic counselor on staff?

Next Steps: Making Your Decision

Choosing to undergo PGT with IVF is a personal decision. Here’s a simple checklist to guide you:

1. Gather your medical history and any genetic test results.
2. Research clinics in Thailand that offer PGT and compare their reported outcomes.
3. Schedule consultations with at least two clinics to compare approaches.
4. Ask for a breakdown of costs, including PGT, medications, and any additional procedures.
5. Consider the emotional and financial implications of a cycle that may not result in a transfer.
6. Discuss your options with a genetic counselor to understand the implications of PGT results.

Remember, success rates are just one piece of the puzzle. The right clinic for you is one that offers transparent data, experienced staff, and a supportive environment.

Frequently asked questions

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

PGT-A screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities (aneuploidy), which are more common with advanced maternal age. PGT-M is used to detect specific single-gene disorders, such as cystic fibrosis or thalassemia, when parents are known carriers. Both are performed on embryos before transfer, but they answer different questions.

Does PGT guarantee a successful pregnancy?

No, PGT does not guarantee a successful pregnancy or a healthy baby. It can reduce the risk of miscarriage and certain genetic conditions, but many other factors affect implantation and live birth, including embryo quality, uterine health, and overall medical history.

How do I know if I need PGT?

PGT is typically recommended for women over 35, couples with a known genetic condition, or those with recurrent pregnancy loss or implantation failure. However, it is not necessary for everyone. Your doctor can help you decide based on your specific situation and family-building goals.

Are PGT success rates in Thailand different from other countries?

Success rates depend more on the patient's age and the clinic's laboratory standards than on the country itself. Thailand has many clinics with advanced technology, but there is no national registry, so you should ask each clinic for its own data and verify its credentials.

Continue your research

• How to interpret IVF success rates
• PGT in Thailand overview
• PGT and IVF guides

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.