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Preimplantation Genetic Testing
PGT-A
With IVF or ICSI, embryos can be tested for chromosomal abnormalities before transfer. This can increase the chances of a successful pregnancy and reduce the risk of miscarriage. Our doctors will advise you individually on your options.
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No long waiting times
In-house lab
Holistic care
Transparent costs
What is PGT-A?
PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies) is a procedure in which embryos are examined for the correct number of chromosomes. A healthy embryo has 46 chromosomes. If a chromosome is missing or there is one too many, this is referred to as aneuploidy. Such abnormalities are one of the most common causes of miscarriages and failed implantations. In PGT-A, a small cell sample is taken from the embryo and analysed in the laboratory. Only embryos with normal chromosome findings are selected for transfer.
Good to know: Unlike PGT-M or PGT-SR, PGT-A does not look for a specific gene mutation or structural change, but checks the total number of chromosomes. Chromosomal abnormalities usually occur randomly and increase with the age of the woman.
Who benefits from PGT-A?
There are various situations in which it may be advisable to examine embryos for chromosomal abnormalities. Our doctors will advise you individually on your options.
Desire to have children after 35
The risk of chromosomal abnormalities in egg cells increases with age. PGT-A helps to identify embryos with normal chromosome findings, thereby increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Recurrent miscarriages
Chromosomal abnormalities are one of the most common causes of miscarriage. PGT-A can help select embryos with the correct number of chromosomes, thereby reducing the risk of miscarriage.
Unsuccessful IVF cycles
If several IVF cycles have failed to result in pregnancy despite good embryo quality, undetected chromosomal abnormalities may be the cause. PGT-A enables a more targeted selection of the embryo for transfer.
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When is PGT-A the right decision?
Chromosomal abnormalities are one of the most common causes of miscarriage and failed implantation. PGT-A gives us the opportunity to select the embryo with the best conditions for a successful pregnancy. This can reduce the number of treatment cycles required, saving you time, stress and costs. We will discuss whether PGT-A is appropriate in your situation during a genetic consultation.
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Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
How does PGT-A differ from PGT-M and PGT-SR?
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PGT-A checks whether an embryo has the correct number of chromosomes and detects random abnormalities such as trisomy 21. PGT-M specifically searches for a particular gene mutation that is known to run in the family. PGT-SR examines whether the structure of the chromosomes is correct and is used when a structural change has been diagnosed in one of the parents.
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PGT-A: Step-by-Step
After egg retrieval and fertilisation using IVF or ICSI, the embryos are cultured for five to six days. This is followed by a biopsy, before samples are cryopreserved and sent to our partner laboratory for genetic analysis. We then discuss the results and plan the next steps.
Step 1
Genetic Counseling
In a detailed consultation, we will discuss your medical history and determine whether PGT-A is appropriate in your situation. In addition, approval will be sought from the ethics committee.
Step 2
IVF/ICSI and Embryo Biopsy
After hormonal stimulation, the eggs are retrieved and fertilised in the laboratory (IVF or ICSI). The embryos are cultured, and on the third or fifth day, individual cells are retrieved for genetic testing.
Step 3
Genetic Analysis
The cells taken are examined in the laboratory for genetic characteristics. The results of the genetic analysis are evaluated and interpreted.
Step 4
Embryo Transfer
Based on the results, an embryo without the relevant mutation is selected for transfer and placed in the uterus. Other healthy embryos can be frozen for later use.
Step 5
Pregnancy Test
A pregnancy test is carried out approximately two weeks after the embryo transfer. If you are pregnant, further examinations may be recommended.
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Desire to have children over 40
Why PGT-A is particularly useful from the age of 40 onwards
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From the age of 40 onwards, the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in embryos increases significantly. This often leads to unsuccessful transfers or miscarriages.
With PGT-A, embryos can be tested for the correct number of chromosomes before transfer, and only those with normal results are transferred. This increases the chances of a successful pregnancy, significantly reduces the risk of miscarriage and can reduce the number of treatment cycles required.
Your specialists at Cada
Our experienced doctors specialise in modern reproductive medicine and will accompany you every step of the way.
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Further genetic testing
PGT-A is one of several genetic procedures that can be used in fertility treatment. Find out more about other options here.
Our Location
Our Clinic in Zurich
At the modern Cada Clinic, located directly on Lake Zurich, you'll find fertility treatments such as IVF, ICSI, and social freezing.
All experts in one place
Peaceful location in Zurich Seefeld
On-site IVF laboratory
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We’re happy to answer your questions
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Discover answers to the most common queries about PGT-A here. Should your question remain unresolved, please do not hesitate to reach out to us directly.
Is PGT-A permitted in Switzerland?
Yes. Pre-implantation genetic testing has been legally permitted in Switzerland since September 2017. For PGT-A, the approval of an ethics committee is also required. At Cada, we guide you through the entire application process.
In Germany, PGT-A is also possible in principle, but is subject to much stricter restrictions. The Embryo Protection Act of 1990 is one of the most restrictive regulations in Europe and limits, among other things, the number of eggs that may be fertilised per cycle. This can reduce the chances of having enough embryos for a meaningful genetic test. In addition, PGT-A may only be performed in a few specially approved centres in Germany. These restrictions do not exist in Switzerland, which allows for more flexibility in treatment.
How does PGT-A differ from PGT-M and PGT-SR?
PGT-A checks the number of chromosomes and detects random abnormalities. PGT-M specifically searches for a particular gene mutation in the family. PGT-SR examines the structure of chromosomes in cases of known structural changes.
How long does the entire PGT-A process take?
The process begins with a consultation and an application to the ethics committee. This is followed by the IVF/ICSI cycle, embryo biopsy and genetic analysis. You should allow several weeks from the initial consultation to the embryo transfer.
At Cada, we do everything we can to make the process as efficient as possible and reduce waiting times to a minimum. We therefore recommend that you start the assessment process early so that no valuable time is lost.
Does the biopsy harm the embryo?
The biopsy is performed on the fifth or sixth day of development, when the embryo consists of several hundred cells. Only a few cells are removed from the outer cell layer, which later forms the placenta. According to current knowledge, the biopsy has no negative impact on the development of the embryo.
Is ICSI mandatory for PGT-A?
No. Unlike PGT-M or PGT-SR, PGT-A can be performed with both IVF and ICSI. We will discuss which procedure is best suited to you during the consultation.
At what age does PGT-A become advisable?
In principle, PGT-A can be performed at any age. However, as the risk of chromosomal abnormalities increases significantly from the age of 35 onwards, women of this age and above benefit particularly from the test. However, PGT-A can also be useful for younger women with repeated miscarriages or unsuccessful IVF cycles in order to increase the pregnancy rate, reduce the risk of miscarriage and save time and money overall. Our doctors will advise you on whether PGT-A is recommended in your situation.
What happens if no embryo has normal findings?
This can happen, especially if there are few embryos or if you are older. In this case, we will discuss further options with you, such as repeating the treatment cycle.
At Cada, we have many years of experience in supporting patients aged 40 and over and more complex cases involving previous miscarriages or unsuccessful treatments. We also offer reduced costs for subsequent cycles because it is important to us to provide you with the best possible support on your journey to having the child you desire.
Does PGT-A replace prenatal diagnostics during pregnancy?
No. PGT-A can significantly reduce the risk of a pregnancy with chromosomal abnormalities, but it does not replace regular prenatal diagnostics. Even after a normal PGT-A result, the usual prenatal check-ups are recommended during pregnancy.
Schedule your consultation now
During a free initial consultation, we take the time to comprehend your needs and offer informed advice on your available options.
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