CARE CONNECT · CHINA-IVF

PGT Embryo Genetic Testing in China: Who It Is For and How It Works

PGT (preimplantation genetic testing) is not an add-on for everyone — it is a tool for defined genetic risks. In China, PGT may only be performed by state-licensed centers, which is one of the structural advantages of major 3A hospitals.

Three kinds of PGT

PGT-A (aneuploidy screening): screens embryos for chromosome number, commonly discussed for advanced age, recurrent miscarriage or repeated implantation failure
PGT-M (monogenic disease): selects embryos unaffected by a defined disease-causing variant carried by the couple
PGT-SR (structural rearrangement): used when one partner carries a translocation, inversion or similar structural anomaly

Official price reference: PGT-A ¥3,750/embryo, PGT-M ¥5,050/embryo, biopsy ¥1,560/embryo (Beijing posted prices).

See the full cost page ↗

Who it is for

Couples with a family history of genetic disease, a previously affected child, a known pathogenic variant or chromosomal structural anomaly, or recurrent miscarriage and repeated implantation failure are the main candidates for a PGT discussion. Whether to test, and which kind, is decided by genetic counselling and the treating clinician on medical indications — not ordered by technique name.

Why only licensed centers

China regulates PGT access: only institutions approved by the National Health Commission may perform it, with laboratory quality control. At a licensed 3A center, testing, genetic counselling and the clinical team work within one system, so family analysis, laboratory set-up and embryo decisions stay connected.

ASRM: PGT-M (2023) ↗

Where it sits in the process

01Genetic counselling: define the risk and confirm the indication
02Family documentation and test preparation (PGT-M needs family validation, which can take weeks)
03Standard stimulation and retrieval, blastocyst culture
04Biopsy and testing, then waiting for results
05Discussing transfer choices with your clinician based on the results

FAQ

Does PGT guarantee a healthy baby?

No. PGT screens for specific chromosomal or genetic problems; it cannot exclude all conditions and does not remove the inherent uncertainty of pregnancy. The scope and limits are explained item by item at genetic counselling.

Should every older patient add PGT-A?

Not necessarily. Whether it helps depends on age, embryo numbers and more, and the evidence is still debated. Weigh it with your clinician for your situation rather than adding it by default.

We tested positive for a variant abroad — can our report be used?

Usually as a starting point. Licensed centers generally re-verify to their own laboratory standard or add family validation; we help confirm the specific requirements with the center.