Technological advancements in reproductive medicine are opening new horizons for women on their journey to motherhood, especially those aged 35 and older. The factor of advanced maternal age can bring changes in the genetic quality of eggs along with a decrease in ovarian reserve. At this stage, PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy), integrated into modern IVF treatment protocols, stands out as one of the most critical laboratory applications that optimize the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
The Relationship Between Advanced Age and Embryo Genetics
As women age, the frequency of chromosomal irregularities (aneuploidy) in egg cells increases. This can make it difficult for the embryo to implant in the uterus and is also among the primary causes of early pregnancy loss. While embryos are selected based on their appearance (morphology) in a classic IVF treatment process, the PGT-A method allows for the analysis of not just the appearance, but the health of the embryo's genetic structure.
How is PGT-A (Aneuploidy Screening) Performed?
The process begins when embryos reach the 5th or 6th day (blastocyst stage) in the laboratory. At this stage, a biopsy is performed by expert embryologists in a way that does not harm the embryo, and the collected cells are sent to the genetics laboratory. During the analysis, the embryos are preserved by freezing. This method aims to reduce the number of treatment attempts and reach the goal faster by allowing the transfer of only embryos with a healthy chromosome sequence during IVF treatment.
Clinical Advantages of the PGT-A Method
For patients in the advanced age group, time is as valuable as egg quality. An IVF treatment conducted with PGT-A support not only saves time for the patient but also adds the following advantages to the clinical picture:
- Increased Implantation Rates: Chromosomally normal (euploid) embryos have a much higher potential for implantation in the uterus.
- Reduced Risk of Miscarriage: Since the vast majority of pregnancy losses are caused by genetic errors, a safer pregnancy process is targeted with screened embryos.
- Confidence in Single Embryo Transfer: Selecting a healthy embryo supports a single and healthy birth by preventing the risk of multiple pregnancies.
Personalized Treatment Protocols for Advanced Age
The Role of Scientific Approach in the Treatment Process
Chromosomal screening methods are now considered one of the most important parameters affecting the success of IVF treatment. Scientific data show that PGT-A application significantly improves live birth rates per transfer, especially in women around the age of 40. In this process, the combination of accurate diagnosis, the right technology, and an experienced embryology team provides guidance in overcoming the obstacles created by the biological clock.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the PGT-A procedure harm the embryo?
The risk of the biopsy procedure, performed by advanced laboratory techniques and experienced embryologists, harming the development of the embryo is extremely low.
Should PGT-A be performed in every IVF treatment process?
Genetic screening is generally recommended for couples with advanced maternal age (35+), recurrent pregnancy losses, or failed IVF attempts. The need is decided after a physician's evaluation.
Does an embryo with a normal PGT-A result guarantee pregnancy?
Although PGT-A maximizes the chance of pregnancy, other factors such as the condition of the uterus and hormonal balances must also be suitable for the pregnancy to occur.
How does the screening process affect the treatment calendar?
Genetic analysis results usually become clear within 1-2 weeks. Therefore, embryos are frozen, and the transfer process is usually performed in the next suitable cycle.
How does the PGT-A process proceed at HRS Ankara Women's Hospital?
In our hospital, all genetic screening processes are carried out under the meticulous follow-up of our expert staff, using the most current biopsy methods and advanced freezing technologies.
