When you are researching IVF with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) in Thailand, you will likely come across success rates. These numbers can help you compare clinics, but they can also be confusing. This guide explains how success rates for PGT cycles are reported, what they can and cannot tell you, and what questions to ask a clinic before you decide.
At a Glance: Key Points About PGT Success Rates
- Success rates for PGT cycles are usually reported as live birth per embryo transfer, not per started cycle.
- These rates depend on many factors, including your age, the number of embryos tested, and the clinic’s laboratory standards.
- No clinic can guarantee a pregnancy or live birth, and success rates are not a promise of your outcome.
- Always ask clinics for the exact definition of their success rate and the time period it covers.
How Are Success Rates for PGT Cycles Reported?
Success rates for IVF with PGT are typically reported in one of three ways:
- Live birth per embryo transfer: This is the most common and meaningful measure. It tells you the chance that a transferred embryo will result in a live birth.
- Clinical pregnancy per embryo transfer: This measures the number of transfers that result in a confirmed pregnancy, but not all pregnancies lead to a live birth.
- Live birth per started cycle: This includes all cycles that begin with ovarian stimulation, even if no embryo is transferred. This number is usually lower because it accounts for drop-offs at each step.
When you see a success rate, always check which of these definitions was used. A clinic may report a high live birth per transfer, but the live birth per started cycle could be much lower.
What Do PGT Success Rates Actually Measure?
PGT is a test performed on embryos before transfer to screen for chromosomal abnormalities. The success rate for a PGT cycle depends on the number of embryos that are suitable for transfer after testing. Not all embryos will be normal, and some may not survive the biopsy process.
Success rates for PGT cycles are often reported for a specific group of patients, such as those of a certain age or with a certain number of embryos. These rates are not universal and may not apply to your situation.
Limitations of Success Rate Statistics
Success rates are useful, but they have important limitations:
- They are historical: Rates reflect past outcomes and may not predict future results.
- They are population-based: Rates are averages for a group, not a prediction for you.
- They may not be standardized: Clinics may use different definitions, time periods, and patient criteria, making comparisons difficult.
- They do not account for all factors: Your age, ovarian reserve, and embryo quality all affect your chances, but these are not always reflected in a single rate.
Because of these limitations, you should not choose a clinic based solely on a success rate. Instead, use the rate as one piece of information in your decision.
Questions to Ask a Clinic About Success Rates
When you speak with a clinic, ask these questions to understand their success rates better:
- How do you define success? Is it live birth per embryo transfer or per started cycle?
- What time period does your success rate cover?
- What patient characteristics are included in your reported rates?
- How many PGT cycles do you perform per year?
- What is your embryo biopsy and testing process?
- Do you have any data on outcomes for patients of my age or with my diagnosis?
These questions will help you interpret the numbers and understand what they mean for you.
Next Steps: How to Use This Information
As you research IVF with PGT in Thailand, keep these points in mind:
- Understand the definition of the success rate you are looking at.
- Ask clinics for their most recent data and how it was calculated.
- Consider your own health and fertility factors, not just the clinic’s average.
- Discuss your individual chances with a fertility specialist.
Success rates are a helpful tool, but they are not a guarantee. Your journey is unique, and a good clinic will help you understand your own odds.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between live birth rate and clinical pregnancy rate?
Live birth rate measures the number of embryo transfers that result in a live birth. Clinical pregnancy rate measures the number of transfers that result in a confirmed pregnancy, but not all pregnancies continue to a live birth. Live birth rate is a more meaningful measure of success.
Why do success rates for PGT cycles vary between clinics?
Success rates vary because clinics use different definitions, time periods, and patient criteria. They also have different laboratory standards and experience with PGT. This makes direct comparisons difficult, so it is important to ask each clinic for the exact details of their reported rates.
Can I rely on a clinic's success rate to predict my outcome?
No. Success rates are historical averages for a group of patients, not a prediction for you. Your individual chances depend on many factors, including your age, ovarian reserve, and embryo quality. Discuss your specific situation with a fertility specialist.
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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.