At a glance
For women over 38, IVF with PGT in Thailand involves understanding age-related aneuploidy, realistic euploid embryo rates, and careful cycle planning. This guide explains key concepts and questions to discuss with your clinic.
What to Expect from IVF with PGT in Thailand When You Are Over 38
If you are over 38 and considering IVF in Thailand, you may be wondering how preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) fits into your journey. PGT can help identify embryos with the correct number of chromosomes (euploid) before transfer, which is especially relevant as the risk of chromosomal abnormalities (aneuploidy) increases with age. This article explains what you can generally expect, the important distinctions to understand, and the questions you should ask your clinic.
Age-Related Aneuploidy and Euploid Embryo Rates
As women age, a higher proportion of eggs and resulting embryos are likely to have an abnormal number of chromosomes. This is a natural biological process. For women over 38, the chance of producing a chromosomally normal (euploid) embryo per egg retrieved is lower compared to younger women. However, individual results vary widely. PGT can help identify which embryos are euploid, potentially increasing the chance of a successful pregnancy per transfer and reducing the risk of miscarriage due to chromosomal abnormalities.
It is important to have realistic expectations. Not every cycle will produce a euploid embryo, and multiple cycles may be needed. Your clinic can provide personalized estimates based on your ovarian reserve, age, and other factors.
Key Distinctions: PGT-A vs. PGT-M vs. PGT-SR
PGT has different subtypes. For older women, the most common is PGT for aneuploidy (PGT-A), which screens for extra or missing chromosomes. PGT-M is for single-gene disorders, and PGT-SR is for structural rearrangements. Discuss with your clinic which type is appropriate for your situation.
Cycle Planning Considerations
IVF with PGT in Thailand typically involves the following steps:
- Ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval
- Fertilization (usually via ICSI)
- Embryo culture to blastocyst stage (day 5-6)
- Biopsy of a few cells from the trophectoderm (future placenta)
- Vitrification (freezing) of biopsied embryos
- Genetic analysis (results may take days to weeks)
- Frozen embryo transfer (FET) of a euploid embryo in a subsequent cycle
Because PGT requires freezing embryos, you will likely have a delay between retrieval and transfer. Plan for at least two menstrual cycles for a complete PGT cycle.
Uncertainties and Variables
No test can guarantee a healthy baby. PGT reduces but does not eliminate the risk of miscarriage or chromosomal conditions. Embryos can be mosaic (a mix of normal and abnormal cells), and interpretation of results can be complex. Additionally, not all embryos survive the biopsy and freezing process. Your clinic should explain the limitations and success rates based on their own data.
Questions to Ask Your Clinic
Before proceeding, consider asking:
- What is your experience with PGT for women over 38?
- What are the estimated euploid rates for my age group?
- How many eggs or blastocysts should I aim for to have a reasonable chance of at least one euploid embryo?
- What is the turnaround time for PGT results?
- What are the costs for PGT, and are there any package options?
- How do you handle mosaic embryos?
- What is your live birth rate per euploid embryo transfer for women over 38?
Related Reading
For more information, see our FAQ and Guides. If you have specific questions, contact us.
Frequently asked questions
What is the chance of a euploid embryo for a woman over 38?
The chance varies by individual age and ovarian reserve. Generally, the proportion of euploid embryos declines with age. Your clinic can provide estimates based on your specific situation.
Does PGT improve the chance of live birth for older women?
PGT can help select euploid embryos for transfer, which may reduce miscarriage risk and improve per-transfer success rates. However, it does not guarantee live birth, and the overall chance depends on having at least one euploid embryo.
How long does a PGT cycle take in Thailand?
A full cycle with PGT typically spans two menstrual cycles: one for egg retrieval and embryo biopsy, and another for frozen embryo transfer after results are available.
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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.
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