PGT-M in Thailand: How International Patients Can Prepare Records

If you are considering PGT-M in Thailand, the most useful preparation is not booking a flight or choosing a hotel. It is assembling a clear, complete record of the genetic condition in your family. PGT-M, or preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic conditions, looks for a specific inherited change in embryos created through IVF. To design that test responsibly, a clinic needs accurate information about the condition, the affected person or people, and any previous genetic testing. This guide explains what records to gather, how to organise them, and what to ask during genetic counselling. It is general information, not clinical advice, and it does not replace a consultation with a qualified genetics professional.

At a glance

• PGT-M is a laboratory test performed on embryos during IVF; it is not a treatment for a genetic condition and it does not guarantee a healthy child.
• The test is designed around a specific genetic change in a family, so the clinic needs documents that identify that change.
• Genetic counselling before and after testing is an important part of preparation.
• Records should be complete, legible and, where possible, translated into English.
• Costs, timelines, legal requirements and clinic-specific services vary and must be confirmed directly with the treating clinic and relevant authorities.

What PGT-M is and what it is not

PGT-M is one type of preimplantation genetic testing. It is used when a family is known to be at risk of passing on a specific monogenic condition, meaning a condition caused by a change in a single gene. During IVF, embryos are created in the laboratory, and a small number of cells may be removed for testing. The laboratory then looks for the specific genetic change that has been identified in the family.

PGT-M is not the same as PGT-A, which screens embryos for chromosome number, or PGT-SR, which looks at structural chromosome rearrangements. Each test has different purposes and limitations. PGT-M cannot detect every possible genetic condition, and it cannot guarantee that an embryo will be unaffected, implant, or develop into a healthy child. It is also not a required step for everyone considering IVF. Whether PGT-M is appropriate depends on the specific condition, the family history, and the advice of a genetics professional.

Why records matter for PGT-M

PGT-M is a customised test. The laboratory needs to know exactly what it is looking for. If the genetic change in the family is not clearly documented, the clinic may not be able to design a reliable test. In some cases, additional testing may be needed before PGT-M can be considered. Complete records help the clinic understand:

• Which gene and which specific change are involved.
• Who in the family is affected, and how the condition is inherited.
• Whether previous genetic testing has already been done, and what it found.
• Whether other family members may need to provide samples to help validate the test.

Missing or unclear records can delay the process or make it impossible to proceed. Gathering documents early gives you and the clinic more time to identify gaps and decide on next steps.

Checklist: genetic reports and test results

Start with any genetic test reports you already have. These are the most important documents for PGT-M preparation.

• Genetic test reports for the affected person or people, including the specific gene, the exact genetic change (often written as a variant), and the laboratory that performed the test.
• Carrier testing reports if you or your partner have been tested for carrier status.
• Prenatal or postnatal test reports if genetic testing was done during a pregnancy or after a child was born.
• Chromosome analysis (karyotype) reports if anyone in the family has had one.
• Any previous PGT reports if you have had IVF with genetic testing before.
• Laboratory contact details for the facility that performed the original testing, in case the clinic needs to request additional information.

If you do not have these reports, ask the original testing laboratory or your treating genetics service how to request a copy. In some countries, you may need to make a formal request in writing.

Checklist: family history and clinical records

Genetic conditions often run in families, and a clear family history helps the clinic interpret the test results and plan the PGT-M process.

• A written family history covering parents, siblings, children, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Note anyone with the known condition, anyone with related symptoms, and anyone who has had genetic testing.
• Medical records for the affected family member, including diagnoses, symptoms, age at onset, and any treatments received.
• Pedigree or family tree if one has already been drawn by a genetics service. If not, a simple diagram showing relationships and affected individuals can be helpful.
• Consent or authorisation from family members if you are sharing their medical information. Clinics may require this before accepting records about someone other than you.
• Death certificates or autopsy reports if relevant and available, as these can sometimes clarify a diagnosis.

Accuracy matters more than volume. If you are unsure about a detail, note that it is uncertain rather than guessing.

Checklist: prior fertility and IVF records

If you have had fertility treatment before, those records help the clinic understand your history and avoid repeating tests unnecessarily.

• IVF cycle summaries including stimulation protocol, number of eggs retrieved, fertilisation results, and embryo development.
• Embryo freezing records if any embryos were cryopreserved, including where they are stored.
• Previous PGT results if genetic testing was performed on embryos.
• Semen analysis reports if applicable.
• Ovarian reserve test results such as AMH or antral follicle count, if available.
• Any relevant surgical or medical reports related to fertility.

Checklist: practical preparation for international patients

Preparing records for a clinic in another country involves some practical steps. Requirements vary by clinic and by your home country, so confirm each item directly.

• Translations: Ask the clinic whether records must be translated into English or Thai, and whether certified translation is required.
• Copies and originals: Bring both original documents and photocopies. Some clinics may ask to keep copies.
• Digital copies: Scan or photograph every document clearly and store them securely. A cloud folder or encrypted drive can be useful.
• Consent forms: Check whether the clinic needs written consent to request records from other providers.
• Identification: Confirm what identification documents the clinic requires for registration.
• Timing: Ask how far in advance records should be submitted, as PGT-M test design can take time.
• Legal and regulatory questions: Ask the clinic which legal or regulatory requirements apply to your situation, and confirm any travel or visa requirements with the relevant authorities.

Questions for genetic counselling

Genetic counselling is a conversation with a qualified professional about your genetic risks, testing options, and what the results may mean for you and your family. It is not a sales consultation. Before PGT-M, genetic counselling can help you understand whether testing is appropriate and what it can and cannot tell you. Consider asking:

• What is the exact genetic change in my family, and how is it inherited?
• Is PGT-M technically possible for this condition?
• What information or samples are needed to design the test?
• What are the limitations of PGT-M for this condition?
• What are the alternatives to PGT-M, such as prenatal testing, donor gametes, or accepting the risk?
• What does a PGT-M result mean, and what are the chances of an inconclusive result?
• What are the emotional and practical considerations of undergoing IVF with PGT-M?
• What follow-up testing during pregnancy might be recommended?
• How will my records be shared with the laboratory, and who will have access?
• What costs are involved, and what is not included?

Write down your questions before the appointment and take notes. If possible, ask a partner or family member to join you.

How to organise your records

A simple, consistent structure makes it easier for the clinic to review your file and reduces the chance of missing information.

Category	What to include	Notes
Genetic test reports	Gene name, variant, laboratory, date	Most important for PGT-M design
Family history	Pedigree, affected relatives, diagnoses	Include consent if sharing others’ data
Clinical records	Diagnoses, symptoms, treatments	Helps confirm the condition
Fertility records	IVF cycles, embryo storage, prior PGT	Relevant if you have had treatment
Practical documents	Translations, identification, consent forms	Confirm requirements with the clinic

Label each document with a short description and the date. Keep a master list so you can see what you have and what is still missing.

What to confirm directly with the clinic

Because PGT-M is a specialised test, many details depend on the clinic, the laboratory, and your specific situation. Before making any commitments, confirm:

• Whether the clinic offers PGT-M for your specific condition.
• What records and samples are required, and in what format.
• Whether the clinic needs to contact your original testing laboratory.
• How long test design and validation may take.
• What the process involves if you are travelling from another country.
• What costs are involved, including consultation, laboratory, IVF, medication, travel and accommodation.
• What legal or regulatory requirements apply, and who is responsible for confirming them.
• What support is available if results are inconclusive or if no unaffected embryos are identified.

Get important answers in writing where possible, and keep them with your records.

Next steps

1. Collect all genetic test reports and clinical records you can find.
2. Write a clear family history and note any uncertainties.
3. Ask your current genetics service or testing laboratory for copies of reports.
4. Arrange genetic counselling to discuss PGT-M and alternatives.
5. Contact the clinic in Thailand to confirm record requirements and timelines.
6. Organise translations, consent forms and digital copies.
7. Keep a master list of what you have submitted and what is still pending.

For more general information about travelling to Thailand for treatment, see our international patients guide. For an overview of preimplantation genetic testing, visit PGT in Thailand. You can also browse our guides and FAQ for related topics.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a genetic test report before contacting a clinic in Thailand about PGT-M?

It is very helpful to have any existing genetic test reports before you contact a clinic. PGT-M is designed around a specific genetic change in your family, so the clinic will usually need to know the gene and the exact variant. If you do not have reports, ask your original testing laboratory or genetics service how to request copies. The clinic can then advise what else may be needed.

What if I do not have any genetic test results yet?

If no genetic testing has been done, a clinic may not be able to design a PGT-M test immediately. In some cases, genetic testing of an affected family member or of you and your partner may be recommended first. This should be discussed with a qualified genetics professional. The clinic can explain what testing, if any, would be appropriate for your situation.

Will my records need to be translated into English or Thai?

Translation requirements vary by clinic. Some may accept records in English, while others may ask for certified translations into English or Thai. Ask the clinic directly what it requires, and allow time for translation if needed. Keep both original and translated copies.

Can PGT-M guarantee that my child will not have the condition?

No. PGT-M is a testing procedure with limitations. It cannot guarantee that an embryo is unaffected, that pregnancy will occur, or that a child will be healthy. It also cannot detect every possible genetic condition. A genetics professional can explain the specific limitations for your family's condition.

What should I ask during genetic counselling before PGT-M?

Useful questions include: What is the exact genetic change in my family? Is PGT-M technically possible for this condition? What information or samples are needed? What are the limitations and alternatives? What does a result mean, including inconclusive results? What follow-up testing might be recommended during pregnancy? Write your questions down and take notes during the appointment.

Continue your research

• International patient guide
• 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.