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Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
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Screening embryos before transfer
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a specialized procedure performed during ICSI/IVF to assess embryos before transfer. It helps identify certain genetic or chromosomal abnormalities and supports the selection of embryos for transfer based on the type of genetic testing recommended.
Who may benefit from PGT?
PGT may be recommended for:
- Couples with a known inherited genetic condition or a carrier (i.e. thalassemia, sickle cell disease and certain types of anemia, …etc)
- Patients with a history of recurrent miscarriage
- Women of advanced maternal age
- Patients with repeated IVF failure
- Cases where there is a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities, especially if there is a history of a chromosomal condition in a previous child.
Types of PGT
- PGT-A screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities, such as extra or missing chromosomes, which may affect implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage.
- PGT-M is used when one or both partners carry a known inherited genetic condition. It tests embryos for a specific genetic disorder to help reduce the risk of passing it on to the child.
How does PGT work?
PGT is performed as part of an IVF cycle. Once embryos are created and reach the appropriate stage of development in the laboratory, a few cells are carefully biopsied from selected embryos. These samples are then analyzed for the specific genetic or chromosomal condition being tested. Based on the results, embryos identified as suitable may be selected for transfer.
Examples of genetic disorders for which PGT may be considered in Saudi Arabia
- Sickle cell anemia
- Thalassemia
- Congenital glaucoma
- Bardet–Biedl syndrome
- Meckel–Gruber syndrome
- Organic acidemias
- Lysosomal storage disorders
- Retinal dystrophies
- Hereditary hearing loss
- Primary microcephaly
- Sanjad–Sakati syndrome
- Joubert syndrome
- Muscular dystrophy
- DeSanto–Shinawi syndrome
- Waardenburg–Shah syndrome
- Hirschsprung disease
- Wolf–Hirschhorn syndrome
- Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC)
- Aicardi–Goutières syndrome
- Galactosemia
- Cystic fibrosis
- Other inherited genetic disorders (as clinically indicated)
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Important note: This step-by-step overview is provided for general orientation and is pending final clinical review — your specialist will confirm the exact protocol for your case during consultation.
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The PGT Process
What to Expect
- 01
IVF or ICSI Cycle
PGT begins with a standard IVF or ICSI cycle — ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, and fertilization in our embryology lab to create embryos suitable for testing.
- 02
Embryo Biopsy
Once embryos have developed for several days, our embryologists carefully take a small number of cells from each embryo selected for testing. The procedure is performed under high-powered microscopy and is designed to leave the embryo itself intact.
- 03
Genetic Screening
The biopsied cells are sent to a specialist genetics laboratory, where chromosomes are analyzed for the condition being tested. Results typically return within a few days.
- 04
Results & Consultation
Your specialist reviews the results with you clearly and carefully — explaining what was found, which embryos are suitable for transfer, and what this means for your next steps.
- 05
Transfer of Selected Embryo
An embryo confirmed suitable for transfer is used in a carefully timed frozen embryo transfer cycle. Any remaining suitable embryos can be stored for future use.
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RiyadhDr. Abdalaziz Al-Shahrani
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JeddahProf. Fawaz Edris
Executive Director, Bnoon - Jeddah Consultant, Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility (IVF), Minimally Invasive Surgery & Maternal Fetal Medicine
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