PGT-A vs PGT-M Testing: Which Genetic Screening is Right for Your IVF Journey?
30-Second Summary:
- PGT-A: Screens for chromosome number abnormalities (like Down syndrome)
- PGT-M: Tests for specific inherited single-gene disorders (like thalassaemia)
- Who needs PGT-A? Women over 35, recurrent miscarriage, repeated IVF failure
- Who needs PGT-M? Couples known to carry specific genetic conditions
- Timing: PGT-M requires 2-4 weeks for custom test design before IVF starts
What is PGT-A?
PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy) is a screening test that checks embryos for the correct number of chromosomes. A healthy embryo should have 46 chromosomes. PGT-A identifies embryos with extra or missing chromosomes—conditions like Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) .
| PGT-A At a Glance | Details |
| What it tests | Chromosome number abnormalities (aneuploidies) |
| Accuracy | >99% for chromosomal abnormalities |
| Timing | 7-10 days for results |
| Best for | Women ≥35, recurrent miscarriage, multiple IVF failures |
How it helps:
- Reduces miscarriage risk
- Improves implantation rates
- Supports single embryo transfer (reduces twin pregnancy risk)
What is PGT-M?
PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders) screens embryos for specific inherited single-gene conditions—like thalassaemia, cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anaemia, or Huntington's disease .
| PGT-M At a Glance | Details |
| What it tests | Specific inherited single-gene disorders |
| Accuracy | >98% for single-gene disorders |
| Timing | 4-6 weeks (including custom test design) |
| Best for | Couples known to carry genetic conditions |
Important: PGT-M is not a standard test. It must be custom-designed for each family's specific gene mutation. This "probe creation" process takes 6-10 weeks before IVF can begin .
PGT-A vs PGT-M: Quick Comparison
| Feature | PGT-A | PGT-M |
| What it detects | Chromosome number issues | Specific gene mutations |
| Who needs it | Women over 35, history of miscarriage | Carriers of genetic disorders |
| Test customization | Standard test | Family-specific (weeks to build) |
| Results timeline | 7-10 days | 2-4 weeks |
| Example conditions | Down syndrome, Turner syndrome | Thalassaemia, cystic fibrosis |
Who Should Consider Each Test?
PGT-A is Recommended For:
- Women aged 35 and above (risk of chromosomal abnormalities increases with age)
- Couples with recurrent pregnancy loss (2+ miscarriages)
- Patients with repeated IVF implantation failure
- Severe male factor infertility
PGT-M is Recommended For:
- Couples where both partners carry the same recessive genetic condition
- Couples with a known family history of hereditary disorders
- Patients who are carriers of X-linked conditions
- Families affected by conditions like thalassaemia, haemophilia, or Huntington's disease
Important Considerations Before Choosing
For PGT-A:
- Considered a screening test, not diagnostic—there is a small possibility of misdiagnosis
- All positive results should be confirmed with prenatal testing
- Some studies suggest PGT-A does not significantly improve success rates across all patient groups
- Mosaic embryos (mix of normal and abnormal cells) may still result in healthy births—consult your specialist before discarding them
For PGT-M:
- Requires 2-3 months of preparation before IVF due to custom test design
- Genetic counselling is essential before proceeding
- Both partners must provide DNA samples (blood or cheek swab) for probe creation
Availability in Malaysia
PGT-A is widely available at leading fertility centres in Kuala Lumpur and Kota Damansara. PGT-M is offered at centres with in-house or partnered genetics laboratories. Costs in Malaysia are significantly lower than in Singapore, Australia, or the UK .
Legal note: PGT-A, PGT-M, and PGT-SR are all available at specialist centres in Malaysia. Gender selection for non-medical reasons is not permitted under Malaysian Medical Council guidelines .
Your Next Step
Unsure which genetic test is right for you? Our fertility specialists can assess your medical history, family background, and specific needs to recommend the most appropriate testing option for your IVF journey.
