PGT for Recurrent Miscarriage in Thailand: A Cautious Guide for International Patients

If you have had two or more miscarriages, you may be exploring whether preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) could help. PGT is a laboratory add-on to IVF that screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities before transfer. It is not a treatment for miscarriage itself, and it does not guarantee a live birth. In Thailand, PGT is available at some fertility clinics, but its role in recurrent loss is specific and limited. This guide explains the different types of PGT, what the evidence suggests, and the practical questions to ask a clinic before deciding.

At a glance

• PGT-A screens embryos for extra or missing chromosomes (aneuploidy), a common cause of early miscarriage.
• PGT-A does not fix chromosomal problems in embryos; it only identifies which embryos are more likely to be chromosomally normal.
• PGT-A is not routinely recommended for all couples with recurrent miscarriage; guidelines vary and it is usually considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Other causes of recurrent loss—such as uterine abnormalities, blood clotting disorders, or thyroid issues—should also be investigated.
• In Thailand, PGT is offered at some international fertility clinics, but availability, cost, and legal requirements vary.

What is recurrent miscarriage?

Recurrent miscarriage, also called recurrent pregnancy loss, is generally defined as two or more consecutive miscarriages. It affects a small percentage of couples trying to conceive. The causes are varied and sometimes no clear cause is found. Chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo are a common reason for early miscarriage, especially in the first trimester. As women age, the proportion of eggs with chromosomal errors increases, which is why miscarriage risk rises with maternal age.

How PGT fits into recurrent miscarriage care

PGT is not a standalone treatment for miscarriage. It is used during IVF to test embryos before transfer. The most relevant type for recurrent miscarriage is PGT-A, which counts chromosomes. PGT-A can identify embryos with the wrong number of chromosomes (aneuploid) and those that are chromosomally normal (euploid). Transferring a euploid embryo may reduce the chance of miscarriage due to chromosomal causes, but it does not eliminate all risk. Miscarriage can still occur for other reasons, such as uterine factors, immune issues, or undetected chromosomal problems.

Types of PGT: PGT-A, PGT-M, and PGT-SR

PGT-A (aneuploidy screening) is the type most often discussed for recurrent miscarriage. It looks at all 23 pairs of chromosomes to detect extra or missing chromosomes. PGT-M (monogenic disease) is for couples at risk of passing on a specific inherited condition, such as cystic fibrosis. PGT-SR (structural rearrangement) is for couples where one partner has a chromosomal rearrangement, like a translocation. This guide focuses on PGT-A because it is the type most relevant to unexplained recurrent miscarriage. PGT-M and PGT-SR are not typically used for recurrent loss unless there is a known genetic cause.

What PGT-A can and cannot do

PGT-A can:

• Identify embryos with a normal number of chromosomes.
• Help select which embryos to transfer, potentially reducing miscarriage risk from chromosomal causes.
• Provide information that may guide decisions about which embryos to transfer.

PGT-A cannot:

• Guarantee a successful pregnancy or a healthy baby.
• Detect all genetic problems; it does not test for single-gene disorders or structural rearrangements.
• Improve the quality of embryos or fix chromosomal abnormalities.
• Address non-chromosomal causes of miscarriage, such as uterine or hormonal issues.

Is PGT-A recommended for recurrent miscarriage?

Professional guidelines differ. Some organizations suggest that PGT-A may be considered for couples with recurrent miscarriage, while others do not routinely recommend it because evidence of clear benefit is limited. The decision is often made case by case, taking into account the couple’s history, age, previous IVF outcomes, and personal preferences. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and limitations with a fertility specialist. PGT-A is not a mandatory step, and some couples achieve successful pregnancies without it.

PGT-A and repeated implantation failure

Repeated implantation failure (RIF) is when good-quality embryos fail to implant after several IVF cycles. Some clinics offer PGT-A for RIF, but its benefit is debated. RIF may be caused by factors other than chromosomal abnormalities, such as uterine receptivity or immune issues. PGT-A may help identify chromosomally normal embryos for transfer, but it does not guarantee implantation. If you are considering PGT-A for RIF, ask your clinic about the evidence and alternatives.

What to expect during PGT-A in Thailand

The PGT-A process involves standard IVF steps: ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization in the lab, and embryo culture. On day 5 or 6, a few cells are biopsied from each embryo. The embryos are then frozen while the biopsy samples are sent to a genetics lab for analysis. Results typically take one to two weeks. Only embryos with a normal chromosome count are considered for transfer in a subsequent cycle. The exact timeline and protocols vary by clinic. In Thailand, some clinics cater to international patients and may offer coordination services, but you should confirm all details directly.

Limitations and uncertainties of PGT-A

PGT-A is not perfect. It can produce false results, and some embryos may be misclassified. Mosaic embryos—those with a mix of normal and abnormal cells—can be particularly challenging to interpret. Some clinics may transfer mosaic embryos, while others may not. The long-term outcomes of children born from PGT-A are still being studied, though current evidence does not show major health risks. Additionally, PGT-A adds significant cost and may not be covered by insurance. It also does not improve the overall chance of pregnancy per cycle if a sufficient number of embryos are available; its main benefit is reducing miscarriage risk per transfer.

Alternatives to PGT-A for recurrent miscarriage

Before or instead of PGT-A, your doctor may recommend:

• A thorough evaluation for uterine abnormalities, hormonal imbalances, blood clotting disorders, and thyroid function.
• Testing for chromosomal abnormalities in you and your partner (karyotyping).
• Lifestyle changes, such as stopping smoking and managing weight.
• Medications or procedures to address specific causes, if found.
• Expectant management or further IVF without PGT-A.

These options should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Questions to ask a clinic in Thailand

• What is your experience with PGT-A for recurrent miscarriage?
• What are the success rates for live birth after PGT-A in your clinic, and how do they compare with IVF without PGT-A?
• How do you handle mosaic embryos?
• What is the total cost of PGT-A, including biopsy, genetic testing, and embryo freezing?
• What are the legal requirements for international patients seeking PGT in Thailand?
• Do you provide genetic counseling before and after testing?
• What support do you offer for travel and accommodation?

Next steps

If you are considering PGT for recurrent miscarriage in Thailand, start by gathering your medical records and having a detailed discussion with a fertility specialist. Ask about the evidence for PGT-A in your specific situation, the alternatives, and the costs. You may also want to seek a second opinion. Remember that PGT is a tool, not a guarantee, and the decision should be based on your individual circumstances and values.

For more general information about PGT in Thailand, see our PGT in Thailand guide. You can also explore our patient guides and FAQ for additional support.

Frequently asked questions

Does PGT-A prevent miscarriage?

PGT-A can reduce the chance of miscarriage caused by chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo, but it does not prevent all miscarriages. Other causes, such as uterine or hormonal factors, can still lead to pregnancy loss.

Is PGT-A recommended for all couples with recurrent miscarriage?

No. Guidelines vary, and PGT-A is not routinely recommended for everyone. It is usually considered on a case-by-case basis after a thorough evaluation. Discuss with your doctor whether it is appropriate for you.

What is the difference between PGT-A and PGT-M?

PGT-A screens for extra or missing chromosomes (aneuploidy), while PGT-M tests for specific inherited single-gene disorders. PGT-A is more commonly discussed for recurrent miscarriage, whereas PGT-M is used when there is a known genetic condition in the family.

Can I do PGT-A in Thailand as an international patient?

Some fertility clinics in Thailand offer PGT-A to international patients, but availability, cost, and legal requirements vary. You should contact clinics directly to confirm their services and any documentation needed.

What are the risks of PGT-A?

PGT-A involves embryo biopsy, which is generally considered safe but carries a small risk of damage to the embryo. There is also a chance of false results or uncertain findings, such as mosaicism. Genetic counseling can help you understand these risks.

Continue your research

• PGT in Thailand overview
• PGT and IVF guides
• Frequently asked questions

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.