Treatment Overview
Embryo Genetic Testing, also known as Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), is an advanced laboratory procedure used to analyze embryos for genetic or chromosomal abnormalities before implantation. In Korea, this technology is often integrated into Donor Egg IVF programs to ensure that only the healthiest, chromosomally normal embryos are transferred to the uterus.
Korean fertility centers have become global leaders in genetic testing, offering cutting-edge precision diagnostics, AI-assisted analysis, and world-class embryology laboratories. Using PGT-A (Aneuploidy Screening), PGT-M (Monogenic Disease Testing), and PGT-SR (Structural Rearrangement Testing), clinics can identify embryos with optimal genetic integrity, significantly increasing the chances of a successful and healthy pregnancy.
Purpose & Benefits
The purpose of Embryo Genetic Testing is to improve IVF success rates, reduce miscarriage risk, and prevent genetic disorders from being passed on to the child. When performed alongside Donor Egg IVF, it ensures that embryos created from high-quality donor eggs are also genetically stable and viable.
Key benefits include:
- Higher implantation and pregnancy rates by selecting genetically normal embryos.
- Reduced risk of miscarriage caused by chromosomal abnormalities.
- Prevention of inherited genetic diseases through targeted testing.
- Fewer IVF cycles needed, reducing emotional and financial strain.
- Peace of mind for couples with a history of genetic or fertility issues.
Korea’s advanced genetic screening methods help create safer and more successful pregnancies, particularly for international patients seeking reliable, data-driven fertility care.
Ideal Candidates
Embryo Genetic Testing is highly recommended for:
- Couples using donor eggs who wish to ensure the healthiest embryos are selected.
- Women over 38 years old or those with repeated IVF failures or miscarriages.
- Patients with a family history of genetic diseases (e.g., cystic fibrosis, thalassemia).
- Couples experiencing unexplained infertility or prior chromosomal abnormalities in embryos.
- Individuals pursuing single embryo transfer (SET) for a safer, healthier pregnancy.
It is particularly suitable for international patients who want to maximize success rates while minimizing medical risks.
Possible Risks & Complications
Embryo Genetic Testing is generally very safe, but as with any lab procedure, there are potential considerations:
- Minimal risk of embryo damage during biopsy (rare with skilled embryologists).
- Possibility of mosaic embryos (mixed normal and abnormal cells) requiring careful interpretation.
- Emotional or ethical concerns regarding embryo selection.
Korean fertility labs are renowned for their precision and safety, using non-invasive or micro-biopsy techniques to ensure the embryos’ structural and genetic integrity are preserved.
Surgical Techniques Used
Korea employs some of the most technically sophisticated genetic testing methods in the world, including:
- PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy) – Detects chromosomal abnormalities.
- PGT-M (for Monogenic Disorders) – Identifies single-gene inherited diseases.
- PGT-SR (for Structural Rearrangements) – Screens for chromosomal translocations.
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) – Provides high-resolution genomic analysis.
- AI-Based Embryo Analysis – Enhances accuracy in embryo viability scoring.
The blastocyst-stage biopsy (day 5–6 embryos) is performed using laser-assisted techniques to extract a few cells from the outer layer, leaving the embryo intact for future transfer.
Recovery & Aftercare
Since the procedure occurs in the laboratory, there is no physical recovery period for the patient. The embryos are safely frozen after biopsy while awaiting results. Once healthy embryos are identified, a frozen embryo transfer (FET) can be scheduled at the optimal time for the recipient’s body.
Korean fertility clinics offer detailed aftercare, including:
- Hormonal support and uterine preparation for the next cycle.
- Personalized consultation on genetic test outcomes.
- Emotional and psychological counseling to help patients make informed decisions.
Results & Longevity
Embryo Genetic Testing dramatically improves IVF outcomes. Korean clinics report success rates exceeding 70–80% per transfer when PGT is used with donor eggs.
- Miscarriage rates drop significantly (often below 10%).
- Healthy live birth rates rise substantially due to chromosomal screening.
Results are long-term and lasting, ensuring that pregnancies resulting from PGT-tested embryos are genetically stable and healthy.
Treatment Process in Korea
The process of Embryo Genetic Testing in Korea integrates technology, precision, and personalized care:
- Fertilization using Donor Eggs – IVF or ICSI performed in advanced laboratories.
- Embryo Culture – Grown to blastocyst stage (day 5–6).
- Laser-Assisted Biopsy – A few cells are gently extracted for genetic testing.
- Genetic Analysis (PGT-A, PGT-M, or NGS) – Embryos are screened for abnormalities.
- Embryo Freezing – Healthy embryos are vitrified for later transfer.
- Embryo Transfer – A chromosomally normal embryo is implanted during a subsequent cycle.
Korea’s fertility centers are equipped with AI-integrated genetic testing platforms, ISO-certified labs, and real-time data monitoring systems. Combined with highly skilled embryologists and government-regulated bioethics, Korea has established itself as a global hub for advanced genetic fertility solutions.
Cost Range
The cost of Embryo Genetic Testing in Korea varies based on the number of embryos tested and the type of test performed:
- PGT-A (Chromosome Screening): USD 3,000 – 6,000
- PGT-M (Genetic Disease Testing): USD 5,000 – 8,000
- Full Donor Egg IVF with PGT Package: USD 18,000 – 30,000
Despite being highly advanced, Korea offers affordable PGT services compared to the U.S. or Europe, while maintaining exceptional quality and success outcomes.
Popular Clinics
- CHA Fertility Center (Seoul) – Global pioneer in PGT and mitochondrial testing, with leading genetic labs.
- Maria Fertility Hospital – Offers full-spectrum PGT services with AI-based embryo analysis.
- MizMedi Women’s Hospital – Specializes in international donor egg IVF and genetic diagnostics.
- GynART Reproductive Center – Provides precision embryo biopsy and advanced NGS testing.
- Seoul National University Hospital – Reproductive Genetics Unit – Research-based facility at the forefront of genomic fertility science.
