Repeated IVF failure is emotionally devastating. One hidden reason is embryo chromosomal abnormality. This means that the embryo has a missing, extra, or irregular portion of chromosomal DNA. If so, the body rejects the embryo which results in failed IVF.
Like natural conception, the main cause of IVF failure is chromosomal abnormalities in embryos. A woman’s eggs start to have more chromosome abnormalities starting in her mid-30s. She will have whopping 75% more abnormalities by the time she is in her mid-40s. As men age, chromosomal abnormalities in their sperm also rise.
Although there can be one or more causes of Repeated IVF Failure such as uterine abnormalities, implantation issues, undiagnosed uterine factors, autoimmune diseases, age, lifestyle etc; but PGTA can prove useful in cases of implantation failure resulting from chromosomal abnormalities.
Repeated IVF failure is generally categorised in two ways:
1. Implantation Failure: When high-quality embryos fail to implant in the uterus after multiple transfer cycles.
2. Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF): A more specific term often used after the failure of three or more embryo transfers with high-quality embryos.
PGT-A helps eliminate genetically abnormal embryos from transfer, increasing the chance of implantation. An embryo with the wrong genetic blueprint will often fail to implant, result in a miscarriage, or, rarely, lead to a condition like Down syndrome.
Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A), previously called Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS), is a specialised technique used in the IVF process to assess the chromosomal health of embryos before implantation.
Step-by-Step Overview of PGT-A:
1. Embryo Development: After eggs are fertilised in the laboratory, they are allowed to grow and develop into embryos.
2. Biopsy Procedure: A small number of cells are carefully removed from each embryo. This biopsy does not harm the embryo and is typically performed at the blastocyst stage.
3. Genetic Analysis: The biopsied cells undergo genetic testing to check for chromosomal abnormalities, such as missing or extra chromosomes.
4. Selection for Transfer: Only embryos that are found to have the correct number of chromosomes are selected for transfer into the uterus, increasing the chances of successful implantation and reducing the risk of miscarriage or genetic conditions.
By selectively transferring chromosomally normal embryos, PGT-A helps improve the outcomes of IVF cycles and supports individuals facing repeated implantation failures.
PGT-A is not necessary for everyone. It is most beneficial for:
• Advanced Maternal Age (Women over 37): Due to the higher rate of egg-related chromosomal errors.
• A History of Recurrent Miscarriages: To screen out embryos that are genetically non-viable.
• Repeated IVF Failure: To rule out embryo aneuploidy as the cause.
• Previous Pregnancies with Chromosomal Abnormalities.
• Severe Male Factor Infertility, which can be associated with higher rates of genetic issues.
If you fall into one of these categories, it's a good idea to consult a fertility specialist to discuss whether PGT-A is a suitable option for your treatment plan.
PGT-A does not guarantee pregnancy, but it significantly improves the odds when embryo quality is the issue.
While PGT-A enhances the chance of selecting chromosomally normal embryos, it is important for patients to approach treatment with an understanding that other factors—such as uterine health, hormonal balance, and overall well-being—also influence the success of IVF.
Therefore, working closely with your fertility team to optimise all aspects of your care can further support a positive outcome, while maintaining realistic expectations about the potential and limits of advanced genetic screening techniques.
For couples with repeated IVF failures, PGT-A often provides answers—and hope.
