Pre-implantation genetic testing
Published on 07 February 2024
The Scottish Pre-implantation Genetic Testing (PGT) Service is for couples at risk of passing on an inherited disorder. It can significantly decrease the risk of having a child affected by a genetic condition.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (GG&C) and NHS Lothian provide the service. PGT treatment is for residents of Scotland who meet the eligibility criteria for referral.
What is pre-implantation genetic testing?
PGT is a technique used in reproductive medicine. Experts can identify genetic defects in embryos created through in vitro fertilisation (IVF).
PGT is offered when one or both genetic parents have, or are carriers of, a known genetic abnormality. Testing of the couples' embryos takes place to determine whether an embryo is at risk of a genetic disease.
Only embryos with a low genetic risk for the condition are then transferred back to the woman’s uterus. Any resulting pregnancy should be unaffected by the condition for which the testing is performed.
Find further specific information about the Scottish PGT service on the following website: