Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is one of the most significant advances in reproductive medicine. It allows fertility specialists to analyze the genetic health of embryos created during an IVF cycle before they are transferred to the uterus. By identifying embryos with chromosomal abnormalities or specific genetic disorders, PGT dramatically improves the chances of a successful, healthy pregnancy while reducing miscarriage risk. This comprehensive guide covers everything about PGT in India in 2026 — including costs, types, the step-by-step procedure, who should consider it, and how it impacts IVF outcomes.
What Is PGT?
PGT is a sophisticated genetic screening technique performed on embryos during an IVF cycle — before the embryo is transferred to the uterus. A few cells are carefully removed from the embryo at the blastocyst stage (Day 5), and these cells are analyzed in a specialized genetics laboratory to check for chromosomal abnormalities or specific genetic conditions. The purpose is to select only genetically healthy embryos for transfer. PGT does not alter the embryo’s DNA — it only reads the genetic information.
PGT was previously known as PGS (Preimplantation Genetic Screening) and PGD (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis). The terminology was standardized in 2018 to PGT-A, PGT-M, and PGT-SR.
Types of PGT
PGT-A (Aneuploidy Screening) – formerly PGS
Screens embryos for aneuploidy — an abnormal number of chromosomes. Conditions detected include Down syndrome (trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), Patau syndrome (trisomy 13), Turner syndrome, and Klinefelter syndrome. PGT-A is the most commonly performed type. Technology: Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS).
PGT-M (Monogenic/Single-Gene Disorders) – formerly PGD
Tests for specific single-gene disorders when parents are known carriers — including thalassemia, sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), Huntington’s disease, hemophilia, and others. Requires custom probe preparation (4–8 weeks). Technology: PCR-based methods and linkage analysis.
PGT-SR (Structural Rearrangements)
Detects chromosomal structural abnormalities like translocations, inversions, or deletions in couples where one partner is a known carrier. Technology: NGS or SNP microarray.
PGT Cost in India (2026)
| Type of PGT | Cost per Embryo (₹) | Total for 4–6 Embryos (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| PGT-A (Aneuploidy) | ₹8,000 – ₹20,000 | ₹40,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
| PGT-M (Single-Gene) | ₹15,000 – ₹30,000 | ₹60,000 – ₹1,70,000 |
| PGT-SR (Structural) | ₹12,000 – ₹25,000 | ₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
| PGT-M Probe Preparation (one-time) | ₹20,000 – ₹50,000 | |
| Embryo Biopsy Fee | ₹10,000 – ₹25,000 per cycle | |
Note: PGT cost is in addition to the base IVF cycle (₹1,50,000–₹2,50,000). Total IVF + PGT-A + FET ranges from ₹2,60,000 to ₹5,00,000.
Detailed Cost Breakdown (IVF + PGT + FET)
| Component | Cost (₹) |
|---|---|
| IVF Cycle (stimulation, retrieval, ICSI, culture to Day 5) | ₹1,50,000 – ₹2,50,000 |
| Embryo Biopsy (Trophectoderm) | ₹10,000 – ₹25,000 |
| PGT-A Testing (4–6 embryos) | ₹40,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
| Embryo Vitrification | ₹15,000 – ₹30,000 |
| Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) | ₹45,000 – ₹95,000 |
| Total (IVF + PGT-A + FET) | ₹2,60,000 – ₹5,00,000 |
City-Wise PGT Cost
| City | PGT-A (4–6 embryos) (₹) | Total IVF+PGT-A+FET (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi / NCR | ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 | ₹3,00,000 – ₹5,00,000 |
| Mumbai | ₹60,000 – ₹1,20,000 | ₹3,50,000 – ₹5,50,000 |
| Bangalore | ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 | ₹3,00,000 – ₹5,00,000 |
| Hyderabad | ₹40,000 – ₹90,000 | ₹2,50,000 – ₹4,50,000 |
| Chennai | ₹40,000 – ₹90,000 | ₹2,50,000 – ₹4,50,000 |
| Kolkata | ₹35,000 – ₹80,000 | ₹2,20,000 – ₹4,00,000 |
PGT Procedure – Step by Step
Step 1: Genetic Counselling
Meet with a genetic counsellor to discuss family history, understand the testing type needed, and provide informed consent. For PGT-M, blood samples are taken for probe preparation (4–8 weeks lead time).
Step 2: Standard IVF Cycle
Ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, and fertilization proceed as normal.
Step 3: Embryo Culture to Blastocyst (Day 5)
Embryos are cultured for 5 days until they reach the blastocyst stage with 100+ cells and distinct inner cell mass (future baby) and trophectoderm (future placenta).
Step 4: Trophectoderm Biopsy
5–10 cells are carefully removed from the trophectoderm using micromanipulation. The inner cell mass is not disturbed. Takes 10–15 minutes per embryo.
Step 5: Embryo Vitrification
All biopsied embryos are immediately flash-frozen and stored while awaiting genetic results.
Step 6: Genetic Analysis (1–3 weeks)
Biopsied cells are analyzed using NGS, aCGH, or PCR. Results classify each embryo as euploid (normal), aneuploid (abnormal), or mosaic (mixed).
Step 7: Results Review & Embryo Selection
Your doctor reviews results and recommends which euploid embryos are suitable for transfer.
Step 8: Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
A selected genetically normal embryo is thawed and transferred in a subsequent FET cycle. Pregnancy test 10–14 days later.
Who Should Consider PGT?
Women over 35: Aneuploidy risk increases from ~30% at age 35 to over 60% at 40. PGT-A identifies the healthy embryos.
Recurrent miscarriages (2+): 50–60% of first-trimester miscarriages are chromosomal. PGT-A screens these out.
Repeated IVF failures (3+): Hidden chromosomal abnormalities may explain failed implantation.
Known genetic carriers (PGT-M): Thalassemia, sickle cell, cystic fibrosis, SMA, Huntington’s carriers.
Translocation carriers (PGT-SR): Higher risk of unbalanced embryos.
Single embryo transfer candidates: PGT provides confidence to transfer one embryo, reducing twin risk.
Family history of genetic disorders: Precautionary screening.
How PGT Impacts IVF Success
| Metric | Without PGT | With PGT-A |
|---|---|---|
| Implantation rate | 30–40% | 50–65% |
| Miscarriage rate | 15–25% | 5–10% |
| Live birth rate per transfer | 30–45% | 50–65% |
| Multiple pregnancy risk | Higher (2 embryos transferred) | Lower (confident single transfer) |
Key insight: While PGT adds upfront cost, it can reduce total cost per live birth by avoiding failed cycles and miscarriages.
Benefits & Risks
Benefits
Reduces miscarriage by 50–60% by avoiding aneuploid embryo transfers.
Higher implantation rates (50–65% vs 30–40%).
Prevents genetic disorders — PGT-M screens for 600+ known conditions.
Enables confident single embryo transfer — reducing twins and complications.
Saves long-term cost — fewer failed cycles needed.
Risks & Limitations
Not 100% accurate: 95–98% diagnostic accuracy. False positives/negatives are rare but possible.
Mosaicism: Some embryos show mixed results. Clinical decisions can be complex.
Biopsy risk: Less than 1% embryo damage risk with experienced embryologists.
May reduce transferable embryos: Not all embryos reach blastocyst; some may be aneuploid. Women over 40 may have no euploid embryos in some cycles.
Added cost and time: ₹50,000–₹1,70,000 extra plus 1–3 week wait for results.
Cannot detect everything: PGT screens specific chromosomal/genetic issues only — not all birth defects or conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the cost of PGT in India?
PGT-A costs ₹40,000–₹1,00,000 for 4–6 embryos. PGT-M costs ₹60,000–₹1,70,000 (including probe preparation). PGT-SR costs ₹50,000–₹1,50,000. These are in addition to IVF cycle cost. Total IVF+PGT-A+FET: ₹2,60,000–₹5,00,000.
Is PGT safe for embryos?
Yes, modern trophectoderm biopsy is very safe. Only 5–10 cells from the outer layer are removed — the inner cell mass (future baby) is untouched. Studies show no increased birth defect risk in PGT-tested babies.
Does PGT guarantee a healthy baby?
PGT reduces specific chromosomal/genetic risks with 95–98% accuracy but cannot screen for all conditions. It greatly improves outcomes but is not a 100% guarantee.
What is the difference between PGT-A, PGT-M, and PGT-SR?
PGT-A screens for chromosome number abnormalities (aneuploidy). PGT-M tests for specific single-gene disorders when parents are carriers. PGT-SR detects chromosomal structural rearrangements.
How long do PGT results take?
1–3 weeks after biopsy. Embryos are frozen during this period and transferred via FET once results identify genetically normal embryos.
Does PGT increase IVF success rates?
Yes. Implantation rates improve from 30–40% to 50–65%. Miscarriage drops from 15–25% to 5–10%. Most beneficial for women 35+ and those with recurrent losses.
Can PGT detect Down syndrome?
Yes, PGT-A detects trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), trisomy 18, trisomy 13, and sex chromosome abnormalities like Turner and Klinefelter syndrome.
Is PGT recommended for all IVF patients?
No. PGT is most valuable for women over 35, couples with genetic risk factors, recurrent miscarriages, and repeated IVF failures. For young women with good prognosis, it is optional.
What if no embryos are normal after PGT?
This can happen, especially for women over 40 with few blastocysts. Another IVF cycle may be recommended. Though disappointing, transferring abnormal embryos would likely have resulted in failure or miscarriage.
What are mosaic embryos?
Mosaic embryos contain a mix of normal and abnormal cells. Low-level mosaicism may still result in a healthy pregnancy. Your doctor will discuss the specific findings and help you make an informed decision.
Get Expert Guidance on Genetic Testing
PGT is a powerful tool for improving IVF outcomes and ensuring the health of your future child. Our fertility specialists and genetic counsellors can help you determine if PGT is right for your situation.
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