Treatment Overview
A Customized PGT Protocol (Preimplantation Genetic Testing) is a personalized approach to embryo genetic screening that aligns with each patient’s medical history, genetic background, and fertility treatment plan. Unlike standardized testing methods, the customized protocol tailors every step — from ovarian stimulation and embryo biopsy to genomic analysis and embryo selection — to the individual couple’s reproductive and genetic profile.
In Korea, fertility centers are recognized globally for their expertise in precision reproductive medicine. They integrate genomics, embryology, and artificial intelligence (AI) to design individualized PGT strategies that maximize both efficiency and success rates. Clinics employ state-of-the-art sequencing technologies and advanced lab procedures to ensure that every patient receives the most suitable testing and embryo selection protocol for their unique condition.
This customized PGT system is particularly valuable for couples dealing with genetic risks, advanced maternal age, recurrent miscarriages, or complex infertility — ensuring the safest and most effective path to conception.
Purpose & Benefits
The purpose of a customized PGT protocol is to create a patient-specific genetic testing plan that optimizes embryo selection and IVF outcomes.
Key benefits include:
- Individualized testing design: Genetic targets, chromosomal markers, and testing methods are chosen based on each patient’s needs.
- Improved pregnancy outcomes: Tailored stimulation and biopsy timing enhance embryo quality and implantation success.
- Reduced miscarriage risk: Detects chromosomal or gene abnormalities before embryo transfer.
- Prevention of inherited conditions: Allows precise detection of known familial disorders.
- Enhanced embryo viability: AI-assisted analysis selects the most genetically and morphologically robust embryos.
- Cost-effectiveness: Focused testing avoids unnecessary panels, saving both time and resources.
- Patient-centered care: Integrates genetics, fertility, and emotional counseling for holistic reproductive planning.
Korean fertility centers apply data-driven genetic mapping and molecular diagnostics to deliver highly accurate, safe, and customized PGT outcomes for each couple.
Ideal Candidates
Customized PGT Protocols are recommended for:
- Couples with known genetic disorders or carriers of chromosomal abnormalities.
- Women aged 35 and above, to detect age-related chromosomal issues.
- Couples with repeated IVF failures or miscarriages.
- Patients with structural chromosomal rearrangements, such as translocations or inversions.
- Families seeking to prevent single-gene inherited diseases.
- Cancer survivors preserving fertility and ensuring embryo chromosomal integrity.
- Individuals using donor gametes (egg or sperm), where compatibility and chromosomal health are important.
In Korea, these protocols are fully customizable, designed after comprehensive genetic counseling and fertility assessment.
Possible Risks & Complications
While customized PGT is a safe and minimally invasive approach, potential risks include:
- Embryo biopsy stress: Although rare, handling may affect a small number of embryos.
- Mosaicism: Mixed chromosomal patterns can make results complex to interpret.
- False-positive/negative findings: Extremely rare due to high-tech sequencing, but possible in low-DNA samples.
- Emotional decision-making: Selecting embryos based on genetics may require psychological support.
- Financial investment: Customized protocols may increase overall IVF costs due to specialized analysis.
Korean clinics mitigate these risks through AI-guided embryo selection, advanced micro-manipulation tools, and strict lab quality standards, achieving high precision and consistency.
Techniques & Laboratory Methods
Korean fertility centers employ a multi-layered approach combining cutting-edge genomic technology and laboratory precision to deliver customized PGT:
1. Personalized Stimulation & Timing
- Tailored ovarian stimulation protocols ensure optimal egg quality for genetic testing.
- Timing of egg retrieval and biopsy is adjusted based on hormonal profiles and ovarian response.
2. Trophectoderm Biopsy (Blastocyst Stage)
- Performed on day 5–6 embryos with high precision using laser microdissection.
- Only a few cells are sampled from the outer layer, preserving the inner embryo.
3. Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
- High-throughput sequencing provides genome-wide data on all 23 chromosome pairs.
- Custom gene panels designed for single-gene or complex disorder detection.
4. Whole Genome Amplification (WGA)
- Amplifies DNA from minimal cell samples for enhanced testing accuracy.
5. PGT-A, PGT-M, and PGT-SR Customization
- PGT-A: For detecting chromosomal aneuploidy (extra or missing chromosomes).
- PGT-M: For identifying specific inherited monogenic disorders.
- PGT-SR: For chromosomal rearrangements (translocations/inversions).
Each test is selectively applied based on family history and genetic data.
6. Bioinformatics & AI-Based Embryo Ranking
- Advanced algorithms integrate genomic and morphological data to rank embryos by implantation potential.
- Predictive analytics help clinicians choose the single healthiest embryo for transfer.
7. Customized Cryopreservation Plan
- Embryos that meet genomic and morphological criteria are vitrified for future transfer.
Korea’s fertility laboratories are equipped with genomic sequencing systems, digital embryo monitoring, and robotic-assisted lab handling, ensuring unmatched consistency and accuracy in genetic testing.
Recovery & Aftercare
Customized PGT is laboratory-focused, so physical recovery for the patient is minimal. The aftercare process emphasizes communication, monitoring, and emotional support:
- Post-retrieval care: Patients can resume normal activity within 24–48 hours after egg collection.
- Embryo storage and monitoring: Biopsied embryos are vitrified while awaiting genetic results.
- Result consultation: Couples meet with fertility specialists and genetic counselors to interpret findings.
- Cycle scheduling: A frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle is planned once normal embryos are identified.
- Psychological and reproductive counseling: Emotional support offered throughout the process.
Korean clinics maintain close follow-up through digital reporting and structured communication to help patients feel informed and supported.
Results & Longevity
Korean fertility centers demonstrate exceptional success with customized PGT protocols, with outcomes that rival or surpass global standards:
- Accuracy: Over 99% reliability in chromosomal and genetic analysis.
- Implantation rates: 65–75% success when transferring genetically normal embryos.
- Live birth rates: Exceed 60% in customized PGT cycles.
- Reduced miscarriage risk: 50–70% lower compared to non-screened cycles.
- Improved long-term outcomes: High rates of healthy, chromosomally normal births.
- Efficiency: Fewer IVF cycles needed due to better embryo selection.
The data highlight Korea’s excellence in combining precision medicine, reproductive science, and patient-tailored care.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Genetic Consultation & Program Design
- Comprehensive evaluation of family history, genetic risks, and reproductive goals.
- Development of a customized PGT plan (A, M, or SR) based on medical findings.
Step 2 – IVF & Oocyte Retrieval
- Controlled ovarian stimulation with individualized medication dosing.
- Egg retrieval performed under sedation; fertilization with ICSI for accuracy.
Step 3 – Embryo Culture & Monitoring
- Embryos cultured to the blastocyst stage using time-lapse incubation systems.
- AI-based scoring predicts optimal biopsy timing.
Step 4 – Embryo Biopsy & Genomic Testing
- Trophectoderm cells gently extracted for sequencing.
- Advanced PGT performed according to the custom-designed genetic protocol.
Step 5 – Genetic Report & Counseling
- Results reviewed by reproductive geneticists; suitable embryos identified for transfer.
- Couples receive detailed consultation before proceeding.
Step 6 – Embryo Transfer & Follow-Up
- Chromosomally and genetically normal embryo transferred in a natural or hormone-prepared cycle.
- Post-transfer support and monitoring ensure optimal implantation.
Why Korea Leads
- State-of-the-art genomic laboratories with international certification.
- AI-driven personalization of PGT design, data interpretation, and embryo selection.
- Highly trained embryologists and molecular geneticists collaborating in multidisciplinary teams.
- Efficient turnaround time: Results often available within 7–10 days.
- Integration of technology and empathy: Patient experience combined with precision care.
Korea’s commitment to personalized fertility medicine makes it a global destination for advanced IVF and genetic testing.
Cost Range
The cost of customized PGT protocols in Korea depends on testing complexity, the number of embryos analyzed, and clinic facilities. Typical price range includes:
- Customized PGT (PGT-A/M/SR): USD 4,000 – 8,000
- Comprehensive IVF + PGT Package: USD 8,000 – 12,000
- Embryo Biopsy and Vitrification: USD 1,500 – 2,500
- Genetic Counseling: USD 300 – 500
- Annual Cryostorage Fees: USD 300 – 700
Korean fertility centers often provide inclusive packages that cover testing, cryostorage, and follow-up consultations at competitive international rates.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- CHA Fertility Center (Seoul, Bundang): Specializes in personalized PGT protocols and advanced embryo diagnostics.
- Maria Fertility Hospital: Known for precision genetic screening and AI-assisted embryo monitoring.
- MizMedi Women’s Hospital: Offers fully customized PGT programs with individualized counseling.
- Hamchoon Women’s Clinic: Pioneers in combining genetic data and embryology for targeted IVF solutions.
- Seoul National University Hospital Fertility Center: Integrates genomic research and clinical IVF care for complex fertility cases.
