If you’re going through IVF as part of a surrogacy journey, you’ve probably heard the term PGT-A testing more than once. It often comes up in conversations with fertility clinics, in online forums, or during embryo selection — and it can sound technical, even overwhelming at first.
At its core, PGT-A is about understanding the genetic makeup of an embryo before transfer. For some intended parents, it offers reassurance and clarity. For others, it raises new questions about cost, necessity, and outcomes. Like many decisions in surrogacy, it isn’t one-size-fits-all.
This article explains what PGT-A testing really is, how it fits into IVF and surrogacy, and when it may or may not be recommended. It also answers the most common questions intended parents ask, in clear and simple terms.
What Is PGT-A Testing in Surrogacy
PGT-A testing is a genetic test used during IVF to look at embryos before pregnancy begins.
It checks whether an embryo has the usual number of chromosomes.
Each embryo is created through IVF and allowed to develop for several days in the lab. At that stage, a few cells are tested to see if the chromosome count looks typical. Embryos with a typical number of chromosomes are often considered more likely to implant and lead to a healthy pregnancy.
PGT-A is frequently discussed in surrogacy because IVF is always part of the process. Intended parents often want as much information as possible before choosing which embryo to transfer to a surrogate.
Many people confuse PGT-A with “PGD.” These terms are often used interchangeably online, but they are not the same. PGT-A looks at the number of chromosomes. PGD usually refers to testing for specific inherited genetic conditions. This article focuses on PGT-A only.
In surrogacy, PGT-A is one tool that may help with embryo selection. It does not replace medical care, prenatal testing, or pregnancy monitoring. It simply provides additional information before an embryo transfer takes place.
Where PGT-A Fits in the IVF and Surrogacy Process
Step 1. Creating Embryos Through IVF
Embryos are created through IVF using eggs from an intended parent or an egg donor.
The eggs are fertilized in a lab and begin developing under closely monitored conditions.
This step happens before any surrogate is involved. The goal is to create embryos that can later be considered for transfer.
Step 2. Embryo Development Before Genetic Testing
Embryos grow in the lab for several days before PGT-A testing is possible.
Only embryos that continue developing to this stage can be tested.
Some embryos stop developing earlier. This is a normal part of IVF and happens regardless of genetic testing.
Step 3. Embryo Biopsy for PGT-A Testing
A small number of cells are taken from each embryo for testing.
These cells come from the outer layer of the embryo, which later forms the placenta.
The embryo itself is not implanted at this stage. It remains in the lab while testing is performed.
Step 4. PGT-A Results and Embryo Selection
PGT-A results show whether an embryo has a typical number of chromosomes.
Clinics review these results to help identify embryos that may be considered for transfer.
The results are one part of the decision. Doctors also look at embryo development and the overall IVF plan.
Step 5. Embryo Transfer to the Surrogate
An embryo is transferred to the surrogate once testing and planning are complete.
PGT-A results may influence whether a single embryo is transferred.
The surrogate is not involved in earlier IVF or testing steps. Her role begins at the transfer stage.
What PGT-A Testing Screens For
PGT-A testing looks at the number of chromosomes in an embryo. It checks whether that number appears typical or atypical.
Humans usually have 46 chromosomes. An embryo with too many or too few chromosomes may have difficulty implanting or continuing to develop during pregnancy. PGT-A is designed to identify these chromosome number differences before an embryo transfer takes place.
One example of a chromosome condition linked to an extra chromosome is Down syndrome.
Down syndrome occurs when an embryo has an extra copy of chromosome 21. PGT-A can identify this type of chromosome difference as part of its screening process.
Some chromosome differences are more commonly associated with implantation failure or miscarriage. PGT-A does not diagnose a disease. It reports whether the chromosome count looks typical or not.
PGT-A does not screen for most inherited genetic conditions. It also does not detect every possible health issue. Conditions caused by a single gene usually require a different type of genetic testing.
PGT-A may also provide information about sex chromosomes. What is shared with intended parents depends on clinic policies and medical guidelines.
Is PGT-A Testing Required in Surrogacy or Is It Optional?
PGT-A testing is optional in surrogacy.
It is not required by law, and it is not mandatory for every IVF cycle.
Many intended parents assume PGT-A is required because it is frequently discussed by clinics and agencies. IVF is always part of surrogacy, and genetic testing is often presented early in the surrogacy process. That can make it feel automatic, even when it is not.
Doctors usually recommend PGT-A based on several factors:
- the age of the person providing the eggs
- the number of embryos available
- any history of miscarriage or failed embryo transfers
- the overall IVF and surrogacy plan
PGT-A can be helpful in some situations, but it is not the right choice for everyone. Some families decide not to use it because of cost, personal beliefs, or medical advice. Others prefer to move forward without additional testing.
In surrogacy, the decision to use PGT-A is made on a case-by-case basis. Intended parents typically review their options with their fertility doctor and, when needed, a genetic counselor before moving forward.
Benefits and Limitations of PGT-A Testing
Potential Benefits of PGT-A Testing
PGT-A testing can help identify embryos that are more likely to implant. It provides additional information that may support embryo selection during IVF.
Some intended parents use PGT-A to reduce the risk of transferring an embryo with an atypical number of chromosomes. In certain situations, this may lower the chance of miscarriage related to chromosome issues.
PGT-A can also help when only one embryo is planned for transfer. Having more information upfront may make that decision feel clearer for some families.
Limitations and Important Considerations
PGT-A does not guarantee pregnancy or a healthy baby. Embryos with typical chromosome results can still fail to implant or result in pregnancy complications.
Not all patients benefit in the same way from PGT-A. Some IVF cycles do well without genetic testing, especially when embryo numbers are limited or medical factors do not strongly support testing.
Some results are not clear-cut. Mosaic findings can be harder to interpret and may require additional counseling. For this reason, PGT-A is usually recommended selectively rather than used automatically.
What Happens After PGT-A Results Are Available
PGT-A results are reviewed before any embryo transfer takes place. They help guide the next steps in the surrogacy process.
Results usually fall into a few broad categories. Some embryos show a typical number of chromosomes. Others show differences that may affect implantation or pregnancy. In some cases, results are less clear and need further discussion.
Fertility clinics and genetic counselors help explain what the results mean. They also place those results in context with embryo development, medical history, and the overall IVF plan.
When results are inconclusive or not favorable, intended parents may face several options. These can include transferring a different embryo, repeating IVF, or moving forward without genetic testing. Each situation is handled individually.
This stage can feel emotionally heavy. Many intended parents take time to review their options and ask questions before deciding how to proceed.
PGT-A Testing in Surrogacy: Frequently Asked Questions
Is PGT-A the Same as PGD or PGD IVF?
No, PGT-A and PGD are not the same.
PGT-A looks at the number of chromosomes in an embryo, while PGD usually refers to testing for a specific inherited genetic condition.
The terms are often mixed up online, which causes confusion. PGT-A focuses on chromosome count. PGD focuses on known genetic diseases passed through a family. In surrogacy, PGT-A is the more commonly discussed option.
Is PGT-A Testing Required for Surrogacy?
No, PGT-A testing is not required for surrogacy.
It is an optional step in the IVF process.
Some clinics recommend it more often than others, depending on medical factors and clinic practices. Other clinics use it selectively. The choice usually depends on individual circumstances rather than a general rule.
Does PGT-A Testing Damage the Embryo?
PGT-A testing is considered low risk, but it is not completely risk-free.
A small number of cells are removed from the embryo for testing.
Modern lab techniques are designed to minimize risk, and most embryos tolerate the process well. Still, no procedure involving embryos can be described as having zero risk. This is one reason PGT-A is not automatically recommended for every IVF cycle.
How Long Does PGT-A Testing Take?
PGT-A testing usually takes one to two weeks.
The timeline starts after the embryo biopsy and includes lab analysis.
During this time, embryos are typically frozen. Once results are available, the care team reviews them before planning the next steps.
Does PGT-A Guarantee a Healthy Pregnancy?
No, PGT-A does not guarantee a healthy pregnancy.
It reduces certain risks, but it cannot prevent all complications.
Pregnancy outcomes depend on many factors beyond chromosome count. Prenatal care, maternal health, and other medical variables still play a major role throughout pregnancy.
Why Choose Surrogacy By Faith
Surrogacy by Faith built around experience, respect, and clear values. Every member of the surrogacy team has been a surrogate herself. That personal experience shapes how intended parents and surrogates are supported at every stage.
The surrogacy agency follows an ethical approach to surrogacy. Pregnancy termination is not allowed unless there is a serious medical risk to the surrogate. This framework provides clarity and peace of mind for everyone involved.
Surrogacy by Faith also offers generous surrogate compensation and structured support throughout the journey.
For intended parents considering surrogacy, the best way to start the journey is by exploring the intended parent application process. Women interested in becoming surrogates can learn more about the steps involved by reviewing the surrogate mother application process.