Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) in Mylapore, Chennai | Dr. Archana P
What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)?
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is an advanced diagnostic procedure performed during an In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) cycle. By screening embryos for chromosomal abnormalities or inherited genetic disorders prior to transfer, PGT allows us to select only chromosomally normal (euploid) embryos.
Led by Dr. Archana P. (MBBS, DGO, DNB – OBG), a consultant obstetrician, gynecologist, and fertility specialist trained in ART, ICSI, and reproductive medicine, our practice in Mylapore, Chennai provides patient-first guidance to help you navigate your genetic screening options with clarity and confidence.
Why Consider PGT in Your IVF Journey?
- Higher Implantation & Success Rates: Selecting chromosomally healthy embryos significantly improves IVF pregnancy outcomes.
- Reduced Risk of Miscarriages: Identifying chromosomal errors beforehand drastically lowers the risk of early pregnancy loss.
- Prevention of Genetic Disorders: Screens for inherited conditions (such as Thalassemia, Cystic Fibrosis, or single-gene defects) before implantation.
- Confidence in Single Embryo Transfer (SET): Enables safe, single-embryo transfers to reduce the health risks associated with multiple pregnancies.
- Fewer Unsuccessful Cycles: Avoids unnecessary transfers of non-viable embryos, saving you time, emotional distress, and expense.
Types of Preimplantation Genetic Screening Available
- PGT-A (Aneuploidy Screening)
Checks for extra or missing chromosomes (e.g., Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome). Highly recommended for advanced maternal age or repeated IVF failures.
- PGT-M (Monogenic/Single Gene Defects)
Recommended for couples with a known family history or carrier status for specific genetic diseases.
- PGT-SR (Structural Rearrangements)
Used when one or both partners have a structural chromosomal rearrangement, such as inversions or translocations.
Who Should Consider PGT?
PGT is tailored for couples seeking peace of mind, particularly those who have:
- Advanced Maternal Age: Women aged 35 and older undergoing IVF.
- Recurrent Miscarriages: History of two or more unexplained pregnancy losses.
- Repeated IVF Failures: Unsuccessful implantation despite good-quality embryos.
- Known Genetic Risk: Either partner carrying a hereditary condition.
- Severe Male Factor Infertility: Cases requiring specialized ICSI and embryo evaluation.
The PGT Step-by-Step Process
[ IVF & Blastocyst Culture ] ➔ [ Safe Embryo Biopsy ] ➔ [ Cryopreservation ] ➔ [ Genetic Analysis ] ➔ [ Healthy Transfer ]
- Egg Retrieval & Fertilization: Eggs are fertilized using IVF or ICSI to create embryos.
- Blastocyst Culture: Embryos grow in the lab until Day 5 or 6 (blastocyst stage).
- Embryo Biopsy: A few cells are carefully sampled from the outer trophectoderm layer (cells that form the placenta) by an expert embryologist, keeping the embryo safe.
- Genetic Analysis & Freezing: Embryos are safely frozen while the genetic lab performs Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS).
- Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET): Once the results arrive, a single genetically healthy embryo is transferred to the uterus.
Why Choose Dr. Archana P. in Mylapore, Chennai?
- 11+ Years of Dedicated Expertise: Specialized background in high-risk obstetrics, ART, ICSI, and fertility care.
- Transparent & Ethical Care: Honest evaluation of whether PGT is necessary for your specific medical profile without recommending unneeded procedures.
- Comprehensive Patient-Centered Approach: Personalized guidance through every stage—from preliminary fertility assessments to genetic counseling and post-transfer prenatal care.
- Accessible Location: Located right in the heart of Mylapore, Chennai, providing easy access for local and outstation patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Biopsies are performed on Day 5 or Day 6 blastocysts by skilled embryologists. Cells are removed only from the outer layer (which becomes the placenta), leaving the inner cell mass (which becomes the baby) completely intact.
While PGT significantly increases implantation rates and reduces miscarriage risks by screening for chromosomal normality, pregnancy success also depends on uterine receptivity and overall health.
Genetic analysis using advanced sequencing methods typically takes a few business days to a couple of weeks. Embryos remain safely preserved via vitrification during this period.