PGT-M in Thailand: How International Patients Prepare Records for Genetic Counselling

If you are considering PGT-M in Thailand, the quality of your genetic counselling conversation often depends on the records you bring to it. PGT-M, or preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic conditions, looks for a specific inherited condition in embryos created through IVF. Before any clinic can discuss whether PGT-M may be relevant for you, it needs a clear picture of the condition in your family. That picture comes from medical records, genetic test reports and a careful family history. This guide explains what to gather, how to organise it, and what to confirm directly with qualified professionals. It does not replace medical advice or predict outcomes.

At a glance

• PGT-M is condition-specific; it is not a general embryo screening test.
• Genetic counselling usually comes before any decision about IVF or PGT-M.
• Records that identify the exact genetic variant are often the most useful starting point.
• Family history details can help clarify inheritance patterns and which relatives may need testing.
• Clinics and laboratories may have different requirements, so confirm their document list directly.
• PGT-M cannot guarantee a pregnancy, a live birth or a child without the condition.

What PGT-M is and what it is not

PGT-M is a laboratory test performed on embryos during IVF. It is designed for people who have, or carry, a known monogenic condition — a condition linked to a specific gene or DNA change. Examples include cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy, thalassaemia and many others. The test looks for the specific variant that has been identified in the family.

PGT-M is not the same as PGT-A, which counts chromosomes, or PGT-SR, which looks at structural chromosome rearrangements. It is also not a guarantee. Even when testing is technically possible, it cannot promise a successful pregnancy, a live birth or a child unaffected by the condition. Some families may choose other paths, including prenatal testing, donor gametes, adoption or accepting the natural chance of having an affected child. A genetic counsellor can discuss these alternatives without pressure.

Why records matter for genetic counselling

Genetic counselling is a conversation with a trained professional who helps you understand how a condition runs in your family, what testing options exist and what the results might mean. For PGT-M, the counsellor and the laboratory need to know exactly which genetic variant to look for. Without that information, the test cannot be designed reliably.

Records also help the counsellor assess whether PGT-M is technically feasible for your situation. Some variants are easier to test than others. Some families need additional testing of relatives to establish a reliable test. The more complete your records, the more productive the first conversation is likely to be.

Checklist: records to gather before counselling

Use this checklist as a starting point. Not every item will apply to every family, and your clinic may ask for something different. Confirm the exact list with the clinic or genetic counselling service you plan to use.

1. Genetic test reports

• Any genetic test report that names the gene and the specific variant, often written as a DNA change such as c.1521_1523delCTT or similar.
• Reports from affected family members, carriers or previous pregnancies, if available.
• Laboratory name, report date and the method used, if stated.
• Any re-analysis or updated report if the original was issued some time ago.

If you do not have a report that identifies the variant, ask the original testing laboratory or your doctor whether it can be requested. In some cases, additional testing may be needed before PGT-M can be considered.

2. Clinical records about the condition

• Clinic letters, discharge summaries or specialist notes describing the diagnosis.
• Results of relevant blood tests, imaging or other investigations.
• Details of any treatments, surgeries or medications related to the condition.
• For carrier couples, records showing each partner’s carrier status.

These records help the counsellor understand how the condition affects your family and whether there are any features that might influence testing.

3. Family history information

• A simple family tree, sometimes called a pedigree, showing parents, siblings, children, aunts, uncles and cousins.
• For each relative, note whether they have the condition, are a known carrier, are unaffected or their status is unknown.
• Age at diagnosis or at death, where relevant and known.
• Any history of pregnancy loss, stillbirth or infant death.
• Ethnic background, as some conditions are more common in certain populations.
• Consanguinity, meaning whether parents are related by blood, if you are comfortable sharing this.

You do not need to have every detail. Gaps are normal. The counsellor can help you identify what else might be useful and how to ask relatives for information.

4. Fertility and reproductive history

• Previous IVF cycles, including stimulation protocols, number of eggs retrieved, fertilisation results and embryo outcomes.
• Any previous PGT results, if applicable.
• Previous pregnancies, including outcomes.
• Relevant gynaecological or urological records.

This information helps the clinic discuss whether IVF is likely to be part of your path and what previous cycles might mean for planning.

5. Identification and administrative documents

• Passport or other identification for both partners.
• Marriage certificate or equivalent, if required by the clinic or by Thai law for your situation.
• Any consent forms or referral letters requested by the clinic.

Document requirements can change and may depend on your nationality, marital status and the clinic’s own policies. Confirm the current list directly with the clinic and, where relevant, with official Thai authorities. Do not rely on general guides for legal or entry requirements.

How to organise your records

A clear, indexed folder — digital or paper — makes counselling easier. Consider this structure:

1. Summary page: one page listing your names, contact details, the condition in question, the gene and variant if known, and a short timeline of key events.
2. Genetic reports: original reports in date order, with translations if they are not in English or Thai.
3. Clinical records: specialist letters and test results, grouped by family member.
4. Family tree: a diagram with a short written explanation.
5. Fertility history: previous cycle summaries and outcomes.
6. Questions: a running list of things you want to ask.

If your records are in another language, ask the clinic whether certified translations are needed. Do not assume that English is sufficient for every document.

Questions to ask before and during genetic counselling

These questions can help you get the most from the conversation. Write down the answers.

• Based on our records, is PGT-M technically possible for our condition?
• Is any additional testing needed before PGT-M can be designed?
• What are the limitations of PGT-M for our specific variant?
• What are the alternatives to PGT-M, and what do they involve?
• What records or translations are still missing from our file?
• How will results be reported, and what might a result not tell us?
• What are the next steps if we decide to proceed, and what if we decide not to?
• Who will be our main contact for questions after the consultation?

You can also ask whether the clinic works with a specific genetics laboratory, how samples are transported, and what happens if testing is not possible. These are practical questions, not commitments.

Referral questions for your doctor at home

If you are seeking a referral or gathering records from your home country, your doctor may be able to help with:

• Requesting the original genetic test report from the laboratory.
• Clarifying the exact variant and its classification.
• Providing a summary letter about the condition in your family.
• Arranging additional testing for relatives if needed.
• Explaining what is known about the condition’s inheritance pattern.

These steps can take time, so start early. Some laboratories have their own request processes and may charge a fee.

What PGT-M cannot do

It is important to be realistic. PGT-M cannot guarantee that an embryo will be free of the condition, that an embryo will implant, that a pregnancy will continue, or that a child will be unaffected. It also cannot detect every possible genetic condition. Some variants are not testable with current methods. Mosaic results, where only some cells show a change, can be difficult to interpret. A genetic counsellor can explain these uncertainties in the context of your specific situation.

PGT-M is also not a required step for everyone with a known genetic condition. Some people choose other options. The decision is personal and should be made with qualified professionals who know your medical history.

Next steps

1. Collect the records listed above, starting with any genetic test report that names the variant.
2. Write a one-page summary and a simple family tree.
3. List your questions and note which ones are most important to you.
4. Contact the clinic or genetic counselling service you are considering and ask for their document checklist and process.
5. Confirm any legal, travel or administrative requirements directly with the clinic and relevant authorities.
6. Take time to consider the alternatives and discuss them with your partner or support network.

For more general information, see our pages for international patients, PGT in Thailand, guides and frequently asked questions.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a genetic test report before PGT-M counselling?

It is very helpful. PGT-M is designed around a specific genetic variant, so a report that identifies the gene and variant gives the counsellor and laboratory the information they need to discuss whether testing is possible. If you do not have one, the counsellor can explain how to request it or whether additional testing may be needed.

What if I do not know all the details of my family history?

That is common. Start with what you know and note the gaps. A genetic counsellor can help you identify which relatives might be able to provide missing information and how to approach them. You do not need a complete family tree before the first conversation.

Can PGT-M guarantee a healthy baby?

No. PGT-M cannot guarantee a pregnancy, a live birth or a child without the condition. It also cannot detect every genetic condition. A genetic counsellor can explain the limitations for your specific situation and discuss other options.

Are there alternatives to PGT-M?

Yes. Alternatives may include prenatal testing, using donor gametes, adoption, or accepting the natural chance of having an affected child. The best option depends on your medical situation, your values and what is available to you. Discuss these with a qualified professional.

How long does it take to prepare records for PGT-M counselling?

It varies. Requesting original genetic reports or arranging additional testing can take time, so it is best to start early. Your clinic can give you a clearer idea once they see what you already have.

Continue your research

• International patient guide
• PGT in Thailand overview
• PGT and IVF guides

Medical information notice: This article is educational and does not replace individual assessment, diagnosis, genetic counselling or treatment advice from a licensed clinician. Provider services, availability, fees and policies should be verified directly before booking.