Introduction

For many women over the age of 35, the path to parenthood comes with unique challenges. Fertility naturally declines as eggs reduce in both quantity and quality, making conception more difficult and increasing the chances of miscarriage. But in recent years, a powerful tool—genetic testing of embryos during IVF—is changing outcomes. Known as Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A), this advanced screening method is giving women in their late 30s and early 40s faster, safer, and more successful IVF journeys.

In this blog, we explore how genetic testing works, why it is especially valuable for women over 35, recent research findings, and what prospective parents should know before considering it.

Why Fertility Declines After 35

Before diving into genetic testing, it’s important to understand why conception becomes more challenging with age:

• Egg Quality: By 35, up to 50% of eggs may carry chromosomal abnormalities. By 40, this percentage rises dramatically.

• Ovarian Reserve: The number of available eggs diminishes year by year.

• Pregnancy Risks: Higher chances of miscarriage, Down syndrome, and implantation failure are linked to genetic issues in embryos.

This is where genetic testing during IVF becomes a game-changer—helping doctors identify healthy embryos, reducing trial-and-error cycles, and improving the likelihood of live births.

What Is PGT-A?

Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A) is a laboratory procedure performed during IVF. After eggs are fertilized, embryos are grown for five to six days. At this stage:

1. A few cells are gently removed from the embryo’s outer layer (not harming future development).

2. The cells are analyzed to check if the embryo has the correct number of chromosomes.

3. Only chromosomally normal (euploid) embryos are selected for transfer into the uterus.

This process helps avoid transferring embryos with abnormalities that could lead to failed implantation or miscarriage.

How Genetic Testing Benefits Women Over 35

1. Higher Success Rates

Recent clinical trials show that PGT-A improves live birth rates for women aged 35–42. One study reported an increase from 52% without testing to 72% with PGT-A after the first embryo transfer.

2. Fewer Miscarriages

Older women face a miscarriage rate of 20–35%. By selecting embryos with normal chromosomes, genetic testing dramatically reduces this risk.

3. Faster Path to Pregnancy

Without PGT-A, couples may undergo multiple failed IVF cycles, costing time, money, and emotional energy. With testing, doctors transfer only the most viable embryos, shortening the time to a successful pregnancy.

4. Reduced Emotional Stress

Each IVF cycle carries financial and psychological strain. By improving the odds of success early on, genetic testing helps couples avoid the heartbreak of repeated failures.

The Science Behind It

Chromosomal abnormalities are the leading cause of IVF failure. Common issues include:

• Aneuploidy (missing or extra chromosomes, such as trisomy 21 which causes Down syndrome).

• Mosaicism (a mix of normal and abnormal cells).

By screening embryos before transfer, PGT-A helps doctors avoid these complications. Advanced techniques such as Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) now make testing more accurate and widely available.

A Real-World Example

A 39-year-old woman underwent IVF with two cycles. In her first cycle without PGT-A, none of the transferred embryos implanted successfully. In her second cycle with genetic testing, doctors identified two chromosomally normal embryos. The first transfer led to a healthy pregnancy.

Such cases highlight how testing saves time and money by preventing failed transfers of embryos that never had a chance to succeed.

Who Should Consider PGT-A?

While not every IVF patient needs genetic testing, it is highly recommended for:

• Women aged 35 and above

• Couples with a history of miscarriages

• Patients who have undergone multiple failed IVF cycles

• Cases involving male infertility issues

• Couples with known genetic disorders in the family

Addressing Common Concerns

1. Does PGT-A harm embryos?

No. Biopsies are performed carefully, removing only a few cells from the outer layer. Studies show embryos continue to grow normally afterward.

2. Is genetic testing 100% accurate?

While highly reliable, no test is perfect. False positives or mosaic results can occur, which is why expert genetic counseling is critical.

3. Is it expensive?

PGT-A adds an extra cost (₹1.5–2.5 lakhs in India or $3,000–$5,000 abroad). However, it may reduce the need for multiple IVF cycles, often saving money in the long run.

Latest Research & Updates (2025)

• Clinical Evidence: Trials confirm PGT-A improves success rates for women 35–42.

• AI in IVF: Artificial intelligence is now assisting embryologists in selecting the best embryos alongside genetic testing.

• India’s IVF Market Growth: More tier-2 and tier-3 cities now offer PGT-A, making advanced care accessible beyond metros.

Pros and Cons of Genetic Testing

Practical Tips for Couples Considering IVF with PGT-A

1. Consult a fertility specialist with proven experience in PGT-A.

2. Ask about lab quality—not all clinics have advanced genetic testing facilities.

3. Plan finances—compare the cost of multiple IVF cycles versus one optimized cycle with testing.

4. Seek counseling—a genetic counselor can help interpret results and guide decisions.

5. Evaluate success rates of your chosen clinic with PGT-A specifically.

FAQs

Q1. Can women over 40 benefit from genetic testing?

Yes. While egg quality decreases, PGT-A can still improve the chance of success by identifying the healthiest embryos.

Q2. Can PGT-A guarantee a baby?

No. It reduces risks and improves odds but cannot ensure pregnancy. Other factors such as uterine health still matter.

Q3. Is PGT-A available in India?

Yes. Leading IVF centers in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and now tier-2 cities like Jaipur and Lucknow offer the service.

Conclusion

For women over 35, IVF often feels like a race against time. But with the support of modern science, particularly genetic testing (PGT-A), the journey to motherhood is becoming more efficient, more hopeful, and less stressful. By selecting embryos with the highest chance of success, couples can achieve pregnancy faster, reduce miscarriages, and make informed choices for their families.

If you are exploring IVF and want to understand whether genetic testing is right for you, our team at New World Fertility can guide you. We combine advanced technology with compassionate care to help you grow your family with confidence.

Book your free consultation today and take the first step toward a faster, safer IVF journey.