PGT and IVF Terms to Clarify Before a Remote Consultation with a Thailand Clinic

Before a remote consultation about PGT and IVF in Thailand, it helps to clarify a short list of terms so you can follow the conversation and ask precise questions. The most useful terms to confirm are PGT-A, PGT-M and PGT-SR; the difference between an embryo and a biopsy sample; what “mosaic”, “inconclusive” and “no result” mean; and how your clinic describes the limits of testing. You do not need to memorise every scientific detail. You need to understand what each test looks at, what it cannot tell you, and which decisions remain yours. This guide explains those terms in plain English and suggests questions to bring to your remote appointment.

At a glance

• PGT is a group of tests done on embryos, not a treatment that guarantees a pregnancy.
• PGT-A, PGT-M and PGT-SR look for different things and are not interchangeable.
• Results can be clear, uncertain or inconclusive, and each category has different implications.
• Remote consultations work best when you clarify vocabulary, records and next steps in advance.
• Ask your clinic to explain its own definitions, because wording can vary between providers.

Why terminology matters in a remote consultation

In a remote consultation, you cannot point at a screen or read a printed leaflet together. Everything depends on shared language. If you and your clinician use the same word to mean different things, you may leave the call with a mistaken impression of what was discussed.

Terminology also affects consent. Before agreeing to any test or procedure, you should understand what is being examined, what the result may look like, and what happens if the result is unclear. Clarifying terms is not a formality; it is part of informed decision-making.

Finally, terminology helps you compare information from different sources. Websites, forums and well-meaning friends often use abbreviations loosely. Knowing the standard meaning of each term makes it easier to notice when a claim is vague or overstated.

Core IVF terms to confirm first

These terms usually come up early in a conversation about IVF and PGT. Ask your clinician to confirm that your understanding matches theirs.

• IVF (in vitro fertilisation): a process in which an egg is fertilised by sperm outside the body, and an embryo may later be transferred to the uterus.
• Embryo: an early stage of development after fertilisation. PGT is performed on embryos, not on a future pregnancy.
• Biopsy: a small sample of cells taken from an embryo for testing. Ask how your clinic describes the biopsy step and what it means for the embryo.
• Embryo transfer: placing an embryo into the uterus. PGT results may inform which embryo is considered for transfer, but they do not guarantee an outcome.
• Cycle: one round of treatment, which may include stimulation, retrieval, fertilisation, testing and transfer, depending on your plan.
• Mosaic embryo: an embryo with a mix of cells that show different chromosomal patterns. Ask your clinic how it defines and reports mosaicism.
• Inconclusive or no result: a test that did not produce a clear answer. Ask what usually happens next in your clinic’s process.

PGT-A, PGT-M and PGT-SR: what each term refers to

PGT stands for preimplantation genetic testing. It is an umbrella term, and the letters after PGT describe what is being looked for. The three common categories are PGT-A, PGT-M and PGT-SR. They are not versions of the same test, and one does not replace another.

PGT-A

PGT-A looks at the number of chromosomes in an embryo. It is sometimes described as screening for aneuploidy, which means an unusual number of chromosomes. PGT-A does not diagnose a specific inherited condition, and it does not tell you whether an embryo will implant or lead to a live birth. Ask your clinician to explain what PGT-A can and cannot indicate in your situation.

PGT-M

PGT-M looks for a specific inherited condition that is known to run in a family or has been identified in a couple’s genetic history. It is usually considered when there is a known single-gene condition to look for. PGT-M is not a general health check for embryos. Ask whether your clinic would describe PGT-M as relevant to your history, and what information it would need to design the test.

PGT-SR

PGT-SR looks at structural rearrangements of chromosomes, such as translocations or inversions. It is different from PGT-A and PGT-M. Ask your clinician to explain the difference in plain language and to confirm which category, if any, applies to your situation.

Term	What it generally looks at	What it does not do
PGT-A	Number of chromosomes in an embryo	Does not diagnose a specific inherited condition or guarantee pregnancy
PGT-M	A known single-gene condition	Does not screen for all possible conditions
PGT-SR	Structural chromosome rearrangements	Does not replace PGT-A or PGT-M

Terms used to describe PGT results

Result categories can be confusing, especially when different clinics use slightly different wording. Ask your clinician to define each term as they use it.

• Euploid: a result describing a typical number of chromosomes for the embryo tested.
• Aneuploid: a result describing an unusual number of chromosomes.
• Mosaic: a result showing a mix of cells with different chromosomal patterns. Mosaicism can be reported in different ways, so ask how your clinic classifies it.
• Inconclusive: the test did not give a clear result. Ask what this means for the embryo and for your options.
• No result: sometimes used when the sample did not provide enough information. Ask whether this is the same as inconclusive at your clinic.

It is reasonable to ask how often your clinic sees each result category, but be cautious about comparing percentages between clinics. Definitions and patient groups may differ, and a number without context can be misleading.

What PGT can and cannot tell you

PGT is a laboratory test on a small sample of cells. It can provide information about the chromosomes or genes it is designed to examine. It cannot tell you whether an embryo will implant, whether a pregnancy will continue, or what a child’s future health will be. It also does not replace other prenatal testing or clinical judgement.

PGT is not a required step for everyone. Whether it is relevant depends on your medical history, your reasons for considering it, and what your clinician advises after reviewing your records. Some patients choose to proceed without PGT; others consider it for specific reasons. The decision is personal and should be based on a clear understanding of benefits, limits and alternatives.

Alternatives and limits to discuss

Before deciding, ask what the alternatives are. Depending on your situation, these may include proceeding with IVF without PGT, using other forms of testing, or considering different approaches to embryo selection. Your clinician can explain which options are medically appropriate for you.

Also ask about limits. PGT cannot detect every possible genetic or chromosomal issue. A result described as typical does not guarantee a healthy pregnancy or child. A result described as unusual does not always mean an embryo cannot be used; your clinician can explain what the result means in your case.

Practical questions to ask during a remote consultation

Bring a written list. It is easy to forget questions during a video call.

1. Which PGT category, if any, are you recommending for my situation, and why?
2. What exactly does that test look at, and what can it not tell me?
3. How do you describe a typical, unusual, mosaic or inconclusive result?
4. What happens if the result is unclear?
5. What are the alternatives to PGT in my case?
6. What records or information do you need from me before we decide anything?
7. How will we communicate results and next steps after the consultation?
8. What costs should I expect to discuss, and how will I receive that information in writing?

Preparing your records and questions

Remote consultations are more productive when your clinician has context. Ask what records would be helpful, such as previous fertility treatment summaries, genetic test results, or relevant medical history. You can also ask whether any documents need translation or certification, and how to send them securely.

Write down your top three questions before the call. If you are unsure about a term during the consultation, ask the clinician to pause and explain it. It is acceptable to say, “I want to make sure I understand what that word means.”

Next-step checklist

• Write down the terms you want clarified, using the list in this guide as a starting point.
• Ask your clinic to define PGT-A, PGT-M and PGT-SR as they use them.
• Confirm how your clinic reports typical, unusual, mosaic and inconclusive results.
• Ask what PGT cannot tell you and what alternatives exist.
• Request written information about costs and next steps rather than relying on memory.
• Keep a copy of your questions and the answers you receive.

You can also review general information about PGT in Thailand, browse patient guides, compare hospitals, and read the FAQ for more orientation before your appointment.

Frequently asked questions

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

PGT-A looks at the number of chromosomes in an embryo. PGT-M looks for a specific inherited condition that is known in a family or has been identified in a couple’s genetic history. PGT-SR looks at structural rearrangements of chromosomes. They are different tests, and one does not replace another. Your clinician can explain which, if any, is relevant to your situation.

Does a “normal” PGT result guarantee a healthy pregnancy?

No. PGT is a laboratory test on a small sample of cells. A result described as typical for the chromosomes examined does not guarantee that an embryo will implant, that a pregnancy will continue, or that a child will be born without health issues. PGT cannot detect every possible condition. Your clinician can explain what a result does and does not mean in your case.

What should I do if I do not understand a term during a remote consultation?

Ask the clinician to pause and explain it in plain language. You can say, “I want to make sure I understand what that word means.” It is also helpful to repeat back what you heard in your own words and ask if you have understood correctly. Taking notes during the call can help you remember the explanation afterwards.

Is PGT required for everyone doing IVF?

No. PGT is not a required step for all patients. Whether it is relevant depends on your medical history, your reasons for considering it, and your clinician’s advice after reviewing your records. Some patients proceed with IVF without PGT. You can ask your clinician to explain the potential benefits, limits and alternatives for your situation.

What records should I prepare before a remote consultation about PGT?

Ask your clinic what it would find helpful. Common categories include previous fertility treatment summaries, genetic test results, and relevant medical history. You can also ask whether any documents need translation or certification and how to send them securely. Having this information ready can make the consultation more productive.

Continue your research

• Thailand hospital directory
• 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.