PGS (Preimplantation Genetic Screening) is a term many patients still use when searching for embryo chromosome testing during IVF. Today, PGS is often referred to as PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy), but the goal is the same: to help identify embryos with the correct number of chromosomes before embryo transfer.
When you search for “PGS Array CGH in Georgia” or “Array CGH in Tbilisi”, you are usually looking for information about a specific laboratory technology used to screen embryos for chromosomal abnormalities as part of IVF in Georgia.
This long-form guide explains what PGS is, what Array CGH means, how the process works step by step, who may benefit, what it can and cannot detect, and what international patients should expect when planning treatment in Tbilisi, Georgia.
What Is PGS (PGT-A)?
PGS/PGT-A is embryo chromosome screening performed during an IVF cycle. It checks whether an embryo has:
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the correct number of chromosomes (euploid), or
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extra or missing chromosomes (aneuploid)
Aneuploidy is a common reason for:
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failure to implant
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early miscarriage
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reduced IVF success, especially as maternal age increases
PGS/PGT-A does not “treat” embryos. It provides information that may help guide embryo selection for transfer.
What Is Array CGH?
Array CGH (Comparative Genomic Hybridization) is a laboratory method used to analyze embryo DNA for chromosome copy-number differences. In embryo testing, Array CGH is typically used to detect:
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whole chromosome gains or losses (e.g., trisomy or monosomy)
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some large segmental imbalances (depending on platform and lab thresholds)
Array CGH was widely used for PGS/PGT-A and is still referenced frequently in online searches, even though many labs now also use NGS (Next-Generation Sequencing) as an alternative technology. In practice, your key question should be: what type of chromosomal information is provided, how reliable the lab workflow is, and how results are used for your transfer plan.
PGS (Array CGH) vs PGD (PGT-M): Don’t Confuse Them
Patients often mix these terms, but they test different things:
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PGS / PGT-A (often via Array CGH or NGS): screens for chromosome number issues
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PGD / PGT-M: tests for a specific inherited single-gene disorder (like a known familial condition)
If you have a known genetic disease risk, you typically need PGT-M/PGD, not PGS/PGT-A alone.
Who May Benefit From PGS (Array CGH) in Georgia?
PGS/PGT-A is not necessary for every IVF patient. It may be considered more often in these scenarios:
1) Advanced Maternal Age
As age increases, the likelihood of embryo aneuploidy rises. PGS may help identify embryos with a higher chance of implantation.
2) Recurrent Miscarriage
When miscarriages may be linked to chromosomal factors, PGS can be discussed as a tool to support embryo selection.
3) Repeated IVF Failure
If multiple transfers have not resulted in pregnancy, PGS may be considered to evaluate whether embryo chromosome status is a contributing factor.
4) Limited Time / Desire to Reduce Transfers
Some patients want a strategy that may reduce the number of transfers needed to achieve pregnancy, depending on embryo availability.
5) Cases Where Embryo Selection Is Especially Important
For patients who expect to create multiple embryos, screening may support more structured transfer planning.
Important note: Your fertility specialist should decide whether PGS is appropriate based on your diagnosis, age, embryo numbers, and medical history.
How PGS (Array CGH) Works During IVF in Tbilisi, Georgia
PGS is performed as part of an IVF cycle. It is not a stand-alone treatment. The pathway typically looks like this:
Step 1: IVF or IVF/ICSI to Create Embryos
Eggs are retrieved and fertilized in the lab. Many clinics prefer ICSI when embryo testing is planned because it can help keep the lab environment more controlled for genetic analysis.
Step 2: Embryo Culture to Blastocyst Stage
Embryos are cultured for several days until they reach the stage suitable for biopsy (commonly the blastocyst stage).
Step 3: Embryo Biopsy
A small number of cells are carefully removed by experienced embryologists. The embryo is not “opened for surgery” in the way patients imagine; this is a specialized lab micromanipulation step.
Step 4: DNA Processing and Array CGH Analysis
The biopsy sample undergoes DNA preparation and analysis through Array CGH to evaluate chromosome copy-number patterns.
Step 5: Embryo Freezing (Common in PGS Cycles)
Because results take time, embryos are often frozen after biopsy. This is why many PGS cycles in Georgia are paired with Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) later.
Step 6: Transfer Planning Based on Results
After results return, your doctor designs a transfer plan. Typically, embryos are categorized as:
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euploid (chromosomally normal)
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aneuploid (chromosome abnormality detected)
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sometimes inconclusive/no result (sample limitations can happen)
What Array CGH Typically Detects
Array CGH is mainly used to identify:
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extra or missing chromosomes (aneuploidy)
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some large segmental gains/losses (depending on lab settings)
Limitations You Should Understand (Very Important)
PGS (Array CGH) can be helpful, but it has limitations:
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It does not guarantee pregnancy
A euploid result improves selection, but implantation still depends on embryo biology, uterine readiness, timing, and overall health. -
Mosaicism can complicate interpretation
Some embryos contain a mix of normal and abnormal cells. A biopsy samples only a small number of cells, so mosaicism may not be fully represented. -
It is not a complete “genetic health check”
PGS mainly evaluates chromosome number. It does not screen for every genetic disorder, and it does not replace prenatal care. -
No-result or inconclusive outcomes can occur
Sometimes DNA quality/quantity is not sufficient for a definitive report.
Your clinic should explain how they handle mosaic/inconclusive results and how transfer decisions are made in those scenarios.
PGS (Array CGH) and FET in Georgia: Why Frozen Transfer Is Common
Many international patients planning PGS in Georgia (Tbilisi) end up with a two-phase plan:
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IVF + biopsy + freezing
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FET (Frozen Embryo Transfer) after results are ready
FET cycles often provide:
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more controlled uterine preparation
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flexible scheduling for international travel
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the ability to transfer in an optimized endometrial environment
Timeline for International Patients Seeking PGS (Array CGH) in Georgia
Every plan is individualized, but a typical structure may include:
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Before travel: consultation, medical file review, fertility testing review
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In Georgia (Phase 1): stimulation monitoring and egg retrieval (often around 10–14 days)
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After retrieval: embryo culture, biopsy, freezing, and lab analysis
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Return for transfer (Phase 2): FET planning and embryo transfer visit
Some patients prefer two shorter trips. Others plan one longer stay depending on timing and clinical coordination.
Who Should Not Automatically Choose PGS?
PGS may be less helpful (or may be recommended more selectively) when:
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very few embryos are expected (screening may leave no embryo suitable for transfer)
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the primary issue is clearly uterine/structural and should be treated first
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the patient is young with a strong prognosis and the doctor advises standard transfer first
The right approach depends on your individual situation, not just a keyword.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is PGS (Array CGH) the same as gender selection?
No. PGS/PGT-A screens chromosomes. Some chromosome analysis can reveal sex chromosomes, but embryo selection should follow ethical and medically appropriate guidelines and applicable rules.
Does PGS reduce miscarriage risk?
In some cases, transferring a euploid embryo may reduce miscarriage risk related to aneuploidy. However, miscarriages can happen for other reasons too.
Is Array CGH better than NGS?
Both technologies can be used for embryo chromosome testing. The most important factors are:
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laboratory quality and validation
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biopsy technique
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reporting standards
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how results are integrated into clinical decisions
Can PGS be combined with PGD (PGT-M)?
Yes, in certain cases a plan can include both chromosome screening and single-gene testing, but it requires careful coordination and appropriate indications.