Does Genetic Testing Increase Pregnancy Chances?

With the continuous and accelerating advancement of reproductive medicine, preimplantation genetic testing for embryos (PGT) has become one of the most important and advanced medical tools used during in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) procedures. However, the most important question that many couples ask with concern and interest is: Does this test actually increase pregnancy chances in a tangible way? Or is it merely an additional procedure that does not significantly affect the final results? In this comprehensive and detailed article, we will examine the scientific facts and statistics about the role of genetic testing in improving pregnancy chances, and we will clearly explain in which cases it is truly beneficial and effective.

What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Embryos (PGT)?

Preimplantation genetic testing for embryos is an advanced medical procedure in which the DNA of an embryo is analyzed with high precision before transfer to the uterus to detect chromosomal or genetic abnormalities that may prevent implantation, lead to miscarriage, or result in the birth of a child with a serious genetic disease.

Main Types of Genetic Testing

• PGT-A: Screening for numerical chromosomal abnormalities (aneuploidy)
• PGT-M: Screening for known and specific genetic diseases
• PGT-SR: Screening for structural chromosomal rearrangements

Does Genetic Testing Actually Improve Pregnancy Chances?

Yes, in certain specific and documented cases, genetic testing does improve pregnancy and live birth rates in a noticeable and clear way, but it is not a universal guarantee for all couples without exception.

How Does Improvement in Pregnancy Chances Occur?

When only embryos with normal chromosomal structure are selected for transfer, the chances of successful implantation increase significantly, and the risk of miscarriage decreases substantially, leading to increased rates of healthy and stable pregnancy. However, it is important to understand that pregnancy does not depend solely on embryo quality, but also on several other important factors.

Other Factors Affecting Pregnancy

• Health of the uterine lining and appropriate thickness
• Proper and stable hormonal balance
• Woman's biological age and its effect on fertility
• Other non-genetic factors such as general and psychological health

Facts and Figures About PGT's Impact on Pregnancy Chances

Increased Pregnancy Rates in Women Over 35

In older women, the proportion of abnormal embryos is much higher than in younger women. Reliable scientific studies have shown that using PGT-A can increase pregnancy rates by 10% to 20% in this advanced age group.

Significant Reduction in Miscarriage Rates

Chromosomally abnormal embryos are the primary cause of more than 60% of early and recurrent miscarriages. Using advanced genetic testing, the chances of transferring an abnormal embryo decrease, and thus miscarriage rates drop significantly and noticeably.

Improved Results from the First Attempt

In cases of repeated IVF failure, genetic testing can determine whether the problem is related to embryo quality or other factors. Statistics show that using PGT in the first attempt increases the chances of successful pregnancy compared to attempts without testing, especially in older women.

Limited Impact in Younger Women

In women under 35, the proportion of normal embryos is much higher than in older women. Here, genetic testing may not add significant improvement in pregnancy chances, and may increase costs without clear and tangible benefits.

When is Genetic Testing Beneficial in Increasing Pregnancy Chances?

Women Over 35 Years of Age

With advancing age, egg quality gradually declines, and the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities increases. Here, genetic testing helps select the strongest and healthiest embryos, significantly increasing pregnancy chances.

Couples with History of Recurrent Miscarriage

If miscarriage has occurred more than once, the cause may be a chromosomal abnormality in the embryo. Genetic testing helps avoid transferring abnormal embryos, significantly reducing the risk of miscarriage.

Cases Where Multiple IVF or ICSI Attempts Have Failed

If pregnancy has not been achieved despite apparently good embryos, the cause may be an undetected chromosomal abnormality. Here, genetic testing can identify the true cause and increase pregnancy chances in the next attempt.

Couples Carrying Genetic Diseases (PGT-M)

In cases of genetic diseases such as thalassemia or cystic fibrosis, genetic testing is used to select healthy embryos, increasing the chances of safe and healthy pregnancy.

Are There Cases Where Genetic Testing is Not Recommended?

Younger Women (Under 35 Years)

Where the proportion of normal embryos is very high, and testing does not add significant and noticeable improvement in pregnancy chances.

Cases with Limited Number of Embryos

Because taking a biopsy from each embryo may reduce pregnancy chances if there are only a very small number of available embryos.

Cases Without Clear Indicators

Cases where there are no clear indicators of a specific chromosomal or genetic problem may not benefit from testing.

Important Statistics About Genetic Testing's Impact on Pregnancy

Data from American Fertility Society

Using PGT-A may increase pregnancy rates after the first attempt from 30% to 40% in women over 35 years old. It also reduces miscarriage rates from approximately 20% to less than 10% in the same age group.

Results from Clinical Studies

One study showed that women who underwent IVF with PGT-A were more likely to achieve successful pregnancy compared to those who underwent conventional IVF, if they were over 35 years old or had a history of miscarriage.

Reservations and Observations

However, other studies indicated that PGT does not increase pregnancy chances in women under 35, and its use in this age group may be unnecessary and ineffective.

Difference Between Genetic Testing and Other Treatments

Genetic Testing Versus Conventional IVF

The fundamental difference is that genetic testing selects only healthy embryos, while conventional IVF may transfer embryos that could be abnormal.

When is Testing Necessary?

It is necessary when there are specific risk factors such as advanced age or genetic diseases.

Conclusion and Key Points

Genetic testing for embryos is not a magic solution for all fertility problems, but it is an effective tool in improving pregnancy chances in certain specific and documented cases, such as women over 35, couples with recurrent miscarriage, cases of repeated IVF failure, and carriers of genetic diseases. However, the decision to use genetic testing should be made based on careful evaluation by a fertility specialist, not as a routine procedure for all cases.

At Fertiliv, we believe that each couple has a unique story and requires individualized and carefully considered care. Our medical team provides you with comprehensive assessment and necessary guidance to determine whether genetic testing is the most suitable option for you. You can contact us now to learn more about genetic testing for embryos or visit the clinic directly for consultation.