New Delhi, Aug 25 (IANS) – Genetic testing of embryos created through IVF could significantly improve the chances of faster conception for women over 35, according to a new study.
The research, led by scientists at King’s College London, UK, marks the world’s first randomised controlled trial focusing exclusively on women aged 35–42, a group with a higher likelihood of producing embryos with chromosomal abnormalities.
The study evaluated the use of Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A), which screens embryos for abnormal chromosome numbers before implantation. Older women are at increased risk of generating embryos with chromosomal errors, which can cause implantation failure and miscarriage.
Findings published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine revealed that women who underwent PGT-A had a higher cumulative live birth rate after up to three embryo transfers — 72% in the PGT-A group compared to 52% in the control group. Importantly, pregnancies were achieved with fewer embryo transfers, reducing the overall time to conception.
“With more women starting families after 35, the risk of embryos with chromosomal abnormalities increases, leading to failed implantations and miscarriages,” explained Dr. Yusuf Beebeejaun from King’s College London. “Our results suggest that targeted use of PGT-A could help women in this age group conceive sooner and reduce the emotional burden of repeated failed cycles.”
The pilot study involved 100 women undergoing fertility treatment at King’s Fertility, split evenly between the PGT-A and control groups. It aimed to address the evidence gap by focusing on older women and testing the feasibility of larger, multi-centre trials.
“While broader studies are still needed, improving IVF efficiency and shortening the time to pregnancy could significantly ease the physical and emotional challenges faced by women of advanced reproductive age,” added Dr. Sesh Sunkara, the study’s lead author.
