Fertility, maternity and clinical outcomes vary by individual circumstances and cannot be guaranteed. Information on this page is for general education and does not replace clinical consultation.
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
First PGT success in Zambia — pioneering genetic screening since 2019
Preimplantation Genetic Testing allows us to screen embryos for genetic abnormalities before transfer, improving IVF success rates and reducing the risk of passing on genetic conditions. Our clinic performed Zambia's first successful PGT in 2019.
What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing?
PGT is an advanced laboratory technique that examines the genetic makeup of embryos created through IVF before they are transferred to the uterus. By testing embryos, we can identify those with normal chromosomes or without specific genetic disorders, helping to improve the chances of a successful pregnancy and healthy baby.
Aneuploidy Screening
Tests for the correct number of chromosomes (46). Abnormal chromosome numbers are the most common cause of miscarriage and failed implantation.
Recommended for: Women over 35, recurrent miscarriage, previous failed IVF cycles
Monogenic Disorders
Tests for specific single-gene disorders like sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis, or thalassemia when there is a known family history.
Recommended for: Couples with family history of genetic disease, known carriers
Structural Rearrangements
Tests for chromosomal structural issues like translocations or inversions that can lead to implantation failure or miscarriage.
Recommended for: Couples with known chromosomal rearrangements
Who Should Consider PGT?
Advanced Maternal Age (35+)
Women over 35 have higher rates of chromosomally abnormal embryos, making PGT-A particularly valuable.
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Couples who have experienced multiple miscarriages may benefit from selecting chromosomally normal embryos.
Previous Failed IVF Cycles
PGT can help identify whether embryo quality may have contributed to previous unsuccessful transfers.
Family History of Genetic Conditions
Couples who carry genes for conditions like sickle cell, cystic fibrosis, or other hereditary disorders.
Known Chromosomal Issues
Either partner has a known chromosomal rearrangement that could affect embryo viability.
Single Gene Disorder Carriers
Couples who are carriers of single gene disorders such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or cystic fibrosis can use PGT-M to screen embryos.
The PGT Process
IVF Cycle
Complete a standard IVF cycle with egg retrieval and fertilization in our laboratory.
Embryo Development
Embryos are cultured for 5-6 days until they reach the blastocyst stage.
Embryo Biopsy
A few cells are carefully removed from each embryo's outer layer (trophectoderm) for testing.
Genetic Analysis
Samples are sent to a specialized genetics laboratory for comprehensive analysis.
Results & Counselling
Results typically take 2-3 weeks. We review findings with you before making transfer decisions.
Embryo Transfer
Genetically normal embryos are selected for transfer, with remaining normal embryos frozen for future use.
Benefits of PGT
- Improved implantation rates by selecting chromosomally normal embryos
- Reduced risk of miscarriage due to genetic abnormalities
- Lower chance of having a child with certain genetic disorders
- May reduce time to successful pregnancy by avoiding transfers of abnormal embryos
- Enables informed decision-making with genetic counselling support
Important Limitations
- PGT cannot detect all genetic conditions or birth defects
- A normal PGT result does not guarantee a healthy baby
- Some embryos may be damaged during biopsy (rare, <1%)
- Mosaicism (mixed cell results) may occur and require interpretation
- PGT adds cost and time to the IVF process
- Not all embryos survive to blastocyst stage for testing
Frequently Asked Questions
Interested in Genetic Testing?
Speak with our fertility specialists to determine if PGT is right for your situation. We provide thorough counselling to help you make an informed decision.