At a glance

A practical checklist of questions to ask during a remote consultation about preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) with a clinic in Thailand, covering test types, results, limitations, costs, and next steps.

A remote consultation is your chance to understand whether preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is relevant to your situation, what the different tests involve, and how a clinic in Thailand would approach your care. Because PGT is not a guarantee of pregnancy or a healthy child, and not everyone needs it, the goal of the conversation is to clarify options, limits, and next steps. The questions below are designed to help you prepare, so you can use the time to discuss your specific history rather than basic definitions.

At a glance

  • PGT is a group of tests performed on embryos created through IVF. It is not a treatment for infertility itself.
  • PGT-A looks at chromosome number; PGT-M looks at a specific inherited condition; PGT-SR looks at structural chromosome rearrangements.
  • Testing may be recommended for some patients, but it is not universally necessary or appropriate.
  • Results can be complex, and a genetic counselor or specialist can help interpret them.
  • Costs, timelines, and legal or travel requirements vary and should be confirmed directly with the clinic and relevant authorities.

Start with your own history and goals

Before asking about tests, give the clinic a clear picture of your situation. This helps them tailor their answers. You might prepare a short summary that includes:

  • Your age and your partner’s age, if applicable.
  • How long you have been trying to conceive and any previous fertility treatments.
  • Any known genetic conditions in your family or your partner’s family.
  • Any previous pregnancies, miscarriages, or pregnancy outcomes.
  • Any prior chromosome testing results for you or your partner.
  • Your main concerns and what you hope to learn from the consultation.

Then, ask the clinic to explain how PGT might or might not fit into your care. A useful opening question is: “Based on my history, would you recommend considering PGT, and why or why not?”

Questions about the different types of PGT

PGT-A, PGT-M, and PGT-SR are distinct tests with different purposes. Ask the clinic to clarify which one they are discussing and why.

PGT-A (aneuploidy screening)

  • What does PGT-A screen for, and what does a “normal” or “abnormal” result mean?
  • Can PGT-A tell us whether an embryo will definitely implant or lead to a healthy birth?
  • Are there situations where you would not recommend PGT-A?
  • How do you decide which embryos to test and which to transfer?

PGT-M (monogenic disease)

  • For our specific inherited condition, is PGT-M technically possible?
  • What information or samples do you need from us to set up PGT-M?
  • How long does it take to prepare a PGT-M test before an IVF cycle?
  • What are the chances that the test will not give a clear result?

PGT-SR (structural rearrangement)

  • Does my or my partner’s chromosome rearrangement make PGT-SR relevant?
  • What types of results can PGT-SR produce, and how do you interpret them?
  • Are there alternative approaches if PGT-SR is not suitable for us?

Questions about results, interpretation, and uncertainty

PGT results are not always straightforward. Some embryos may show a result that is difficult to classify, and testing has limitations. Ask:

  • What does a “mosaic” result mean, and how do you counsel patients about transferring a mosaic embryo?
  • Can PGT miss a condition or give a false result? What is the chance of that?
  • If an embryo is not tested, what does that mean for transfer decisions?
  • Who will explain the results to us, and will we have access to a genetic counselor?
  • How do you document and share results with us and with any clinic we might use after returning home?

Questions about alternatives and limitations

PGT is one option among several. It is not a guarantee, and it may not be the right choice for everyone. Ask the clinic to discuss alternatives, such as:

  • Transferring untested embryos.
  • Using donor gametes or embryos, if relevant.
  • Prenatal testing during pregnancy, such as chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis.
  • Waiting or trying naturally, depending on your circumstances.

Also ask: “What are the limitations of PGT in our case, and what can it not tell us?”

Questions about the clinic’s process and coordination

If you are considering traveling to Thailand for treatment, you will want to understand how the remote consultation fits into the overall process. Ask:

  • What are the next steps after this consultation?
  • What records, test results, or reports should we send you, and in what format?
  • How do you coordinate with our local clinic or doctor, if needed?
  • What is the typical timeline from consultation to treatment, and what factors could change it?
  • How do you handle communication during treatment, including language support?
  • What support is available for travel, accommodation, and appointments in Thailand?
  • After we return home, how do you share records and follow up with our local providers?

You can also ask whether the clinic offers any preparation or coordination assistance, and what the scope and fees are for those services.

Questions about costs and practical arrangements

Costs for PGT and IVF vary widely and depend on many factors. Rather than asking for a single price, ask for a breakdown of categories so you can understand what might be included.

  • What are the cost components for IVF, embryo biopsy, and genetic testing?
  • Are there separate fees for genetic counseling, storage, or additional tests?
  • What is not included in the quoted estimates?
  • How and when are payments made?
  • What are your policies on refunds or cancellations?
  • Are there any financial assistance or payment plan options?

Because prices and policies can change, confirm all costs directly with the clinic in writing.

Questions about legal, travel, and documentation requirements

Legal and travel requirements depend on your nationality, your destination, and the clinic’s policies. This is not something to guess about. Ask:

  • What documents do we need to provide for treatment, and do they need to be translated or notarized?
  • Are there any legal restrictions on PGT or embryo testing in Thailand that could affect us?
  • What visa or entry requirements should we be aware of?
  • Do you provide any letters or documentation to support our travel?
  • How long do we need to stay in Thailand for the relevant stages of treatment?

Always verify legal and immigration information with the relevant authorities or a qualified professional.

How to organize your questions before the call

A remote consultation may be shorter than you expect. Prioritize your questions and share them with the clinic in advance if possible.

  1. Write down your top three questions and put them first.
  2. Group related questions together, such as all PGT-A questions or all cost questions.
  3. Ask for clarification if an answer uses terms you do not understand.
  4. Take notes or ask if you can record the call, if that is allowed.
  5. Ask what the next step is and who to contact if you have follow-up questions.

Next steps after the consultation

After the call, review your notes and decide what additional information you need. You may want to:

  • Request a written summary of the discussion and any recommendations.
  • Ask for the clinic’s written information on PGT, costs, and timelines.
  • Discuss the options with your local doctor or a genetic counselor.
  • Compare information from more than one clinic if you are unsure.
  • Confirm all practical details before making any commitments.

For more general information, you can explore our PGT in Thailand guide, browse hospitals, read other guides, or check the FAQ.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most important question to ask about PGT during a remote consultation?

A useful starting question is: "Based on my history, would you recommend considering PGT, and why or why not?" This opens a discussion about whether PGT is relevant to your situation and helps you understand the clinic's reasoning. It also gives you a chance to ask about alternatives and limitations.

Can PGT guarantee a healthy baby?

No. PGT can provide information about certain chromosomal or genetic features of an embryo, but it cannot guarantee implantation, pregnancy, or a healthy child. It also has limitations, including the possibility of false results or uncertain findings. A genetic counselor or specialist can explain what PGT can and cannot tell you in your specific case.

How should I prepare for a remote PGT consultation with a clinic in Thailand?

Prepare a concise summary of your fertility history, any known genetic conditions, and previous test results. Write down your top questions, grouping them by topic such as test type, results, costs, and travel. If possible, send your questions and records to the clinic in advance. During the call, take notes and ask for clarification on anything you do not understand.

Are there legal restrictions on PGT in Thailand that I should know about?

Legal and regulatory requirements can change and may depend on your nationality and specific circumstances. This is not something to rely on general information for. Ask the clinic directly about any restrictions that could affect you, and verify details with the relevant authorities or a qualified legal professional.

What costs are involved in PGT, and how can I get a clear estimate?

Costs vary and depend on the type of PGT, the number of embryos tested, and other factors. Ask the clinic for a breakdown of cost components, including IVF, embryo biopsy, genetic testing, counseling, and storage. Also ask what is not included. Because prices can change, request a written estimate and confirm all fees directly with the clinic.

Continue your research

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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