Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) at Vita Altera Cyprus IVF Center
At Vita Altera Cyprus IVF Center, our goal is to provide the most advanced and effective fertility treatments, aligned with the latest scientific developments. Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) stands out as one such innovation—enabling a thorough genetic evaluation of embryos prior to transfer. This approach helps us minimize risks associated with repetitive IVF failures, miscarriages, and the potential of having a child born with certain genetic conditions.
What Is the PGT Method?
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a process that allows us to evaluate embryos’ genetic makeup before pregnancy is established. By analyzing specific genetic markers, we can detect chromosomal or monogenic disorders early and select only the healthiest embryos for transfer.
Preventing Unsuccessful Outcomes
When couples undergo IVF, the quality of eggs, sperm, and the resulting embryos is pivotal. However, even seemingly good-quality embryos can carry hidden genetic anomalies. PGT identifies these abnormalities, thus reducing repeated unsuccessful cycles and the emotional and financial burdens of miscarriage or the birth of a child with a genetic condition.
Relevance to UK Patients
In the United Kingdom, 1 in 7 couples experiences infertility, and advanced maternal age is increasingly common. PGT offers a data-driven approach to improve the chances of pregnancy by screening out genetically compromised embryos, particularly beneficial for patients who may have endured multiple failed IVF cycles or recurrent miscarriages.
How Do We Perform PGT at Vita Altera?
IVF as the Foundation
- Ovarian Stimulation: We begin by stimulating the ovaries using personalized medication protocols. Once follicles mature, eggs are retrieved.
- Fertilization: Sperm (either from a partner or a donor) is combined with the eggs in our laboratory. The resultant embryos develop over several days, typically reaching a cleavage or blastocyst stage before biopsy.
Embryo Biopsy
- Cell Sampling: Using micromanipulation techniques, our embryologists remove one or several cells from each embryo. This biopsy is designed to minimize impact on the embryo’s overall growth.
- Safety & Expertise: Although there is a minor risk of embryo damage, our specialists have extensive experience, keeping this risk low—comparable to or even less than amniocentesis-related risks.
Genetic Analysis
- Molecular Techniques: The cells are sent for detailed genetic assessment, which can focus on specific chromosomal anomalies (e.g., aneuploidies), structural rearrangements, or single-gene disorders.
- Customized Targets: PGT can screen for hundreds of known mutations. If couples carry rare or complex genetic disorders, we collaborate with specialized labs to design a thorough diagnostic approach.
Embryo Selection & Transfer
- Selecting Healthy Embryos: Embryos deemed genetically “healthy” are chosen for transfer. This selection is supported by embryonic developmental criteria as well.
- Fresh or Frozen Transfer: We can either proceed with a fresh transfer if timing aligns, or opt for a frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle—often recommended when extra evaluation time is needed.
Patient Information Confidentiality
Our first priority in all treatment procedures performed at Vita Altera Cyprus IVF Center is patient confidentiality.
Always Contact
Our patients can contact us at any time during the PGT Techniques and ask any questions they may have.
Correct Treatment
Our patients only receive the PGT Techniques they need. This way, they never lose any unnecessary time or money.
When Do We Recommend PGT?
- Repeated IVF Failures
- Couples who have undergone multiple IVF attempts with good embryo quality but no pregnancy success may benefit significantly from PGT.
- Recurrent Miscarriages
- For those experiencing two or more miscarriages, PGT helps rule out chromosomal issues that can repeatedly lead to pregnancy loss.
- Advanced Maternal Age (Over 37)
- As maternal age rises, the risk of chromosomal anomalies increases. PGT helps identify viable embryos, optimizing each cycle’s success rate.
- Known Structural Chromosomal Anomalies
- If one partner carries a rearrangement (like a translocation), PGT identifies embryos unaffected by that anomaly.
- History of Chromosomally Abnormal Pregnancies
- Couples who have faced genetic complications in previous pregnancies can reduce the chance of recurrence through embryo testing.
PGT for Rare Genetic Diseases
- Assessing Genetic Carrier Status
- For families with a documented genetic disorder, we determine the exact mutation(s) and inheritance patterns using advanced molecular diagnostics.
- Single-Cell Diagnostic Setup
- We perform a SETUP phase, during which we map the relevant gene(s) and design a targeted test. This preparation can take days or weeks, based on the disease’s genetic complexity.
- Accuracy at the Single-Cell Level
- During the biopsy stage, each embryo is tested to confirm whether it carries the mutation or if it is genetically normal. This approach allows us to transfer only unaffected embryos.
Number of Embryos Needed for PGT
While it’s technically feasible to perform PGT on a single embryo, having a larger embryo cohort broadens the likelihood of finding healthy, viable candidates for transfer. If the egg or embryo yield is low, we sometimes recommend embryo banking—collecting multiple embryos across more than one cycle before testing—to maximize options.
Transparency in Cost & Process
How Much Is PGT?
Costs vary by the number of embryos tested, specific genetic analyses required, and whether additional procedures like embryo banking are involved. We maintain open pricing discussions, ensuring you remain informed about the total investment needed for this specialized form of IVF. UK patients often find that even with travel, the cost of advanced fertility procedures in Cyprus can be more favorable than domestic private clinics.
Why Vita Altera’s Cyprus IVF Center?
- Robust Laboratory Infrastructure: We partner with Cyprus Ivf Center and other specialized genetic labs to deliver swift, precise results.
- Expert Embryology & Genetics Team: Our professionals have profound experience in performing intricate biopsies and interpreting genetic data.
- Personalized Care for International Patients: From initial consultation to logistical support for travel and lodging, our dedicated staff ensures a seamless patient experience.
- Commitment to Ethical Standards: We adhere to global best practices, offering clear counseling on the benefits and limitations of PGT in each unique scenario.
Embark on the PGT Journey at Vita Altera
By performing Preimplantation Genetic Testing, we minimize the uncertainties of IVF and increase your chances of holding a healthy baby in your arms. Whether you’ve faced multiple miscarriages, repeated implantation failures, or carry a known genetic disorder, PGT can bring clarity and confidence to your fertility path.
Contact us today to learn more about our genetic screening methods, the PGT timeline, and how we can tailor this technology to your specific needs. At Vita Altera Cyprus IVF Center, we aspire to set new standards in reproductive medicine—uniting leading-edge science with compassionate, patient-centric care.
FAQ About PGT
There are many questions about the techniques, we have selected frequently asked questions about this service. If you do not see your answer, please contact us.