At a glance
PGT-A can help select embryos with the correct number of chromosomes, but success depends on many factors. Learn how to interpret success rates and what to ask your clinic in Thailand.
PGT-A Success Rate in Thailand: What to Know
If you are considering preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) in Thailand, you likely want to know: what is the success rate? The short answer is that PGT-A does not guarantee a pregnancy or live birth, but it can help your doctor select embryos with the correct number of chromosomes, which may improve the chances of a successful transfer. However, success rates vary widely based on your age, embryo quality, and the clinic’s laboratory standards. This guide explains how to interpret success rates, what factors influence outcomes, and what questions to ask before starting treatment.
At a Glance: Key Points About PGT-A Success
- PGT-A screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities (aneuploidy) before transfer.
- Success is measured by live birth rate per transfer, not just pregnancy rate.
- Your age and embryo quality are the biggest factors affecting success.
- PGT-A does not guarantee a healthy baby; it may reduce the risk of miscarriage due to chromosomal issues.
- In Thailand, success rates vary by clinic, so ask for their latest data.
What Is PGT-A and How Does It Work?
PGT-A is a genetic test performed on embryos created through IVF. A few cells are removed from the embryo (usually on day 5 or 6) and analyzed for chromosomal abnormalities. Embryos with the correct number of chromosomes (euploid) are considered viable for transfer, while those with missing or extra chromosomes (aneuploid) are usually not transferred because they often fail to implant or result in miscarriage.
PGT-A is not the same as PGT-M (for single-gene disorders) or PGT-SR (for structural rearrangements). PGT-A only checks for chromosomal number abnormalities, not for specific genetic diseases.
How Is Success Rate Measured?
When clinics report success rates, they may use different metrics. The most meaningful is the live birth rate per transfer of a tested euploid embryo. Other metrics include:
- Clinical pregnancy rate – presence of a gestational sac on ultrasound.
- Ongoing pregnancy rate – pregnancy continuing past a certain gestational age.
- Miscarriage rate – may be lower after PGT-A because aneuploid embryos are avoided.
Be cautious when comparing numbers: a clinic may report pregnancy rates per egg retrieval, per embryo transfer, or per patient. Always ask for the exact definition.
Factors That Influence PGT-A Success
Maternal Age
Age is a strong predictor of embryo aneuploidy. Women under 35 tend to have a higher proportion of euploid embryos, while women over 40 tend to have fewer. Therefore, the success rate of PGT-A may be higher in younger women simply because they have more normal embryos to transfer.
Embryo Quality and Biopsy Timing
Embryos that reach the blastocyst stage (day 5-6) are more likely to be viable. The biopsy technique and the number of cells removed can affect embryo survival. A skilled embryology team is crucial.
Laboratory Standards
The accuracy of PGT-A depends on the laboratory’s technology and quality control. In Thailand, some clinics use next-generation sequencing (NGS), which is considered highly accurate. However, there is always a small risk of a false positive or false negative result.
Uterine Receptivity
Even a genetically normal embryo may not implant if the uterine environment is not optimal. Factors like uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or hormonal imbalances can affect success.
Interpreting Clinic Success Rates in Thailand
When you look at a clinic’s success rates, consider the following:
- Sample size – small numbers may not be statistically reliable.
- Patient demographics – if the clinic treats many older patients, their overall success rate may be lower.
- Transfer policy – some clinics transfer only one embryo at a time, which may lower pregnancy rate per transfer but reduce multiple births.
- Time period – rates can change over time; ask for the most recent data.
Remember that success rates are averages, not predictions for your individual case.
Questions to Ask Your Clinic
- What is your live birth rate per transfer of a PGT-A tested euploid embryo?
- How many PGT-A cycles have you performed in the last year?
- What genetic testing technology do you use (e.g., NGS)?
- How do you handle embryos with mosaic results?
- What is your policy on transferring embryos with uncertain results?
- Can you provide success rates broken down by my age group?
Next Steps: Making an Informed Decision
- Consult with a fertility specialist to assess whether PGT-A is appropriate for you.
- Ask for a detailed explanation of the testing process, including risks and limitations.
- Request the clinic’s success rates and compare them with national averages if available.
- Consider the cost of PGT-A and whether it fits your budget.
- Discuss the ethical and emotional aspects of embryo selection with your partner and counselor.
PGT-A can be a valuable tool, but it is not a guarantee. By understanding the factors that influence success and asking the right questions, you can make a more informed choice about your fertility treatment in Thailand.
Frequently asked questions
Does PGT-A guarantee a successful pregnancy?
No, PGT-A does not guarantee pregnancy or live birth. It helps select embryos with the correct number of chromosomes, which may reduce the risk of miscarriage and increase the chance of a successful transfer, but other factors like uterine receptivity and embryo quality also play a role.
What is the success rate of PGT-A in Thailand?
Success rates vary by clinic and patient age. There is no single national rate. Ask your clinic for their live birth rate per transfer of a PGT-A tested embryo, and compare it with data from other clinics.
Is PGT-A worth the cost?
PGT-A may be worth it for women over 35, those with recurrent miscarriage, or previous aneuploidy. It may reduce the number of failed transfers and miscarriages, but it adds cost to IVF. Discuss with your doctor whether it is likely to benefit you.
Can PGT-A detect all genetic disorders?
No, PGT-A only screens for chromosomal number abnormalities (aneuploidy). It does not detect single-gene disorders (PGT-M) or structural rearrangements (PGT-SR). If you have a specific genetic concern, ask about other tests.
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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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