Preimplantation Genetic Testing, or PGT, is a specialised form of genetic screening performed on embryos created through in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

PGT is used to improve embryo selection and support informed decision-making during IVF treatment. We offer three types of Preimplantation Genetic Testing in South Africa.

PGT-A

PGT-A

PGT-A screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities, specifically changes in chromosome numbers. It is used to identify embryos with the correct number of chromosomes, which are more likely to lead to a successful pregnancy.

Learn more about PGT-A
PGT-M

PGT-M

PGT-M is used when there is a known inherited genetic condition in a family. It screens embryos for a specific single gene mutation to reduce the risk of passing that condition on to a child.

Learn more about PGT-M
PGT-SR

PGT-SR

PGT-SR is designed for individuals who carry chromosomal rearrangements such as translocations or inversions. These rearrangements may increase the risk of embryos with missing or duplicated genetic material, which may result in miscarriage

Learn more about PGT-SR

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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about PGT:

PGT is not necessary for all IVF patients. Your fertility specialist and a genetic counsellor can help determine whether testing is appropriate based on your medical history, age, family history, or previous IVF outcomes.

Pre-test genetic counselling is recommended to ensure you understand the benefits, limitations, and possible outcomes of testing.

PGT is performed during an IVF cycle after the embryos have developed for about 5-6 days in the laboratory. At this stage, the embryo has reached the blastocyst stage, which is when a few cells can safely be removed for testing. The embryos are usually frozen after the biopsy while the genetic testing is completed, and a healthy embryo can then be transferred in a later cycle.

During the biopsy, an experienced embryologist carefully removes a few cells from the outer layer of the embryo. These cells come from the part that will form the placenta, not the baby itself. The cells are sent to a genetics laboratory for analysis, while the embryo remains safely frozen until the results are ready. This does not pose a risk to the embryo.

PGT is highly accurate, however, it is important to understand that no genetic test is 100% accurate. For this reason, doctors still recommend confirmatory prenatal testing during pregnancy, such as NIPT or diagnostic testing.

The cost of PGT varies depending on the type of testing being done (PGT-M, PGT-A or PGT-SR), and the number of embryos tested.

PGT can help doctors select embryos with the correct amount of chromosomes (PGT-A), or embryos without inherited conditions (PGT-M), which may reduce the risk of miscarriage and increase the chance of a successful pregnancy in some patients. However, PGT does not guarantee pregnancy or a healthy baby, and success still depends on several factors such as embryo quality and overall reproductive health.