PGT-M Surgery in Thailand (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders)

PGT-M allows you to test IVF embryos for a specific inherited genetic condition — such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, or thalassaemia — before transfer, so you can have confidence that your child will not be affected. Thailand's leading fertility clinics offer PGT-M using the same molecular diagnostic platforms found in top genetics laboratories worldwide, with expert genetic counsellors guiding you through every step.

Procedure 4–8 weeks (probe development + testing)

Hospital Stay None (lab procedure; biopsy is part of IVF cycle)

Recovery N/A (laboratory procedure)

Minimum Stay No additional stay required

What Is PGT-M?

PGT-M — preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders — identifies IVF embryos free from a specific inherited condition such as cystic fibrosis, thalassaemia, or sickle cell disease. A custom probe is developed for your mutation, embryos are biopsied at blastocyst stage, and only unaffected embryos are recommended for transfer.

Probe development requires DNA samples from both partners and ideally affected or carrier family members, taking four to eight weeks before the IVF cycle begins. Diagnostic accuracy exceeds 98%, and PGT-M can be combined with PGT-A on the same biopsy for simultaneous chromosomal screening.

Common Concerns PGT-M Can Address

You or your partner are known carriers of a single-gene genetic disorder
You have a family history of an inherited condition such as thalassaemia, cystic fibrosis, or sickle cell disease
A previous child or pregnancy was affected by a genetic disorder
You want to prevent passing on a known genetic mutation to your children
You are both carriers of a recessive condition with a 25% risk per pregnancy

Are You a Good Candidate?

One or both partners are confirmed carriers of a monogenic disorder via genetic testing
Willing to undergo IVF to access embryo testing (PGT-M requires IVF)
Able to allow 4–8 weeks for custom probe development before starting the IVF cycle
Open to genetic counselling to understand inheritance patterns and test limitations

Techniques & Options

PGT-M is a two-stage process: first, a custom genetic probe is developed for your specific mutation, and then the probe is used to test your embryos. Both stages require specialised expertise and advanced molecular genetics technology.

The two key components of PGT-M are:

Custom Probe Development (Workup)

Before your IVF cycle begins, the genetics laboratory develops a personalised testing protocol for your family's specific mutation. DNA samples are collected from you, your partner, and ideally one or more affected or unaffected family members to establish linkage markers around the mutation. This workup takes 4–8 weeks and is a one-time process — the probe can be reused for future cycles.

Personalised to your specific genetic mutation
Uses DNA from both partners and family members for maximum accuracy
One-time development — reusable across multiple IVF cycles

Embryo Biopsy and Genetic Analysis

During your IVF cycle, embryos are cultured to blastocyst stage and a trophectoderm biopsy is performed — the same biopsy technique used in PGT-A. The biopsied cells are tested using the custom probe to determine whether each embryo is affected, unaffected, or a carrier of the condition. Results are combined with linkage analysis for maximum diagnostic accuracy.

Trophectoderm biopsy — does not harm the inner cell mass
Determines affected, carrier, and unaffected status for each embryo
Can be combined with PGT-A for simultaneous chromosomal screening

Recovery Timeline

Pre-Cycle (Probe Development)

DNA samples are collected from you, your partner, and relevant family members — usually via a simple blood draw or saliva kit that can be done locally and shipped to the genetics lab. The custom probe is developed over 4–8 weeks. You do not need to be in Thailand for this stage.

IVF Cycle & Biopsy

You undergo a standard IVF stimulation and egg retrieval cycle. Embryos are cultured to the blastocyst stage (day 5–6). The embryologist performs a trophectoderm biopsy on each suitable embryo, and the cells are sent for PGT-M analysis. All embryos are vitrified while awaiting results.

Results & Counselling

Results are typically available within 2–3 weeks after biopsy. Each embryo is classified as affected, carrier, or unaffected. Your genetic counsellor reviews the results with you in detail, explains the implications of each classification, and helps you decide which embryo to transfer. A comprehensive written report is provided.

Frozen Embryo Transfer

An unaffected embryo is thawed and transferred to your prepared uterus in a subsequent FET cycle — a short visit of 5–7 days. If you also opted for PGT-A, the transferred embryo will be both genetically unaffected and chromosomally normal, giving you the best possible chance of a healthy pregnancy.

What to Expect

98%+ Diagnostic accuracy for targeted mutations

Break the Chain Prevent passing inherited conditions to your child

Gold-Standard Testing Same molecular platforms as leading global genetics labs

Safety & Risks

PGT-M is a highly accurate and well-established genetic testing technique. However, like all diagnostic procedures, it has limitations. Understanding these is important for making informed decisions about your treatment.

Small risk of embryo damage during biopsy (under 1% at experienced centres)
Rare possibility of misdiagnosis — no genetic test is 100% accurate
Not all embryos will reach blastocyst stage and be available for biopsy

Some embryos may be affected or carriers, reducing the number available for transfer
Custom probe development adds time and cost before the IVF cycle can begin
Confirmatory prenatal testing (CVS or amniocentesis) is recommended during pregnancy

Your genetic counsellor will explain that while PGT-M accuracy exceeds 98%, confirmatory prenatal testing is recommended during pregnancy to verify the result. Leading Thai clinics use experienced embryologists for the biopsy and partner with accredited genetics laboratories for analysis, ensuring the highest standards of diagnostic accuracy and quality control.

How Much Does PGT-M Cost in Thailand?

Our pricing is transparent and covers the full PGT-M process from genetic counselling and probe development through to results — no hidden fees.

PGT-M

PGT-M testing package

From $3,000

Genetic counselling consultation
Custom probe development
Embryo biopsy procedure

Genetic analysis
Results & recommendations
Dedicated care coordinator

Add Accommodation Package

Hotel, breakfast, airport transfers & 24/7 support

From $89 / night

Affordable suites on Sukhumvit Soi 23, a short ride from leading fertility clinics. Rooms include a kitchenette, daily breakfast, and access to the pool and fitness centre — a comfortable, budget-friendly base during your treatment.

A well-appointed serviced residence in the heart of Sukhumvit with full kitchen, washer-dryer, pool and gym. Ideal for patients on longer treatment cycles who want a home-away-from-home feel with hotel-level service.

A luxury hotel close to the clinic district, known for impeccable Japanese-standard service. Spacious rooms, an acclaimed spa, and 24-hour room service — the premium choice for a stress-free stay during treatment.

Common Questions About PGT-M

Everything you need to know before your procedure

PGT-M is a laboratory procedure — the custom probe is developed before your trip, and embryo biopsy is performed during your IVF cycle. No additional stay is needed beyond your IVF treatment. You will return for a frozen embryo transfer of 5–7 days once results confirm an unaffected embryo.

PGT-M can test for virtually any single-gene (monogenic) disorder where the causative mutation is known. Common conditions include cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, thalassaemia, Huntington's disease, BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations, spinal muscular atrophy, fragile X syndrome, and Marfan syndrome. If you carry a known genetic mutation, your genetic counsellor can confirm whether PGT-M is available for your specific condition.

Custom probe development typically takes 4–8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the mutation and the availability of family DNA samples. This is a one-time process — once the probe is developed, it can be reused for any future IVF cycles without repeating the workup. We recommend starting the probe development as early as possible to avoid delays to your IVF cycle.

Ideally, yes. DNA samples from affected and/or unaffected family members (such as parents or siblings) help the laboratory establish accurate linkage markers around the mutation, which improves diagnostic accuracy. However, if family samples are not available, the laboratory can often develop the probe using only the couple's DNA — your genetic counsellor will advise on what's needed.

Yes. PGT-M and PGT-A can be performed on the same embryo biopsy, meaning your embryos are screened for both the specific genetic condition and chromosomal abnormalities simultaneously. This combined approach gives you the most complete information about each embryo and is recommended for patients over 35 or those wanting to maximise their chance of a healthy pregnancy.

This is a possibility, particularly if both partners are carriers of a recessive condition (where each embryo has a 25% chance of being affected). If all embryos are affected or aneuploid, your specialist will discuss options including another IVF cycle, using donor gametes, or other treatment paths. Genetic counselling helps you prepare for all possible outcomes before testing begins.

PGT-M has a diagnostic accuracy exceeding 98% for targeted mutations. The use of linkage analysis alongside direct mutation testing significantly reduces the chance of misdiagnosis. However, no genetic test is 100% accurate, which is why confirmatory prenatal testing — such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) at 11–13 weeks or amniocentesis at 15–18 weeks — is recommended during any resulting pregnancy.

Our quoted price covers genetic counselling, custom probe development for your specific mutation, embryo biopsy, genetic analysis, results consultation, and a written report with recommendations. The IVF cycle itself is priced separately. If you also want PGT-A (chromosomal screening) on the same biopsy, this is an additional fee. Your coordinator will provide a complete breakdown before treatment.

PGT-A screens for chromosomal abnormalities — having too many or too few chromosomes — which are largely random events that increase with maternal age. PGT-M tests for a specific known genetic mutation inherited from one or both parents. PGT-A does not require custom probe development and is faster to set up. PGT-M requires weeks of preparation but can detect conditions that PGT-A cannot. Both can be performed on the same biopsy.

Yes. PGT-M requires that the specific genetic mutation has been identified through carrier testing or genetic diagnosis. If you suspect you may carry a condition based on family history, carrier screening can be arranged as a first step. Your genetic counsellor can guide you through the testing pathway and confirm whether PGT-M is appropriate for your situation.

Yes. PGT-M for the prevention of serious genetic conditions is legal and regulated in Thailand under the Assisted Reproductive Technology Act. It is performed at licensed fertility clinics in partnership with accredited genetics laboratories. Your clinic ensures full compliance with Thai medical regulations and international best-practice guidelines.

Dr. Natthida Chaisiri

MEDICALLY REVIEWED

Dr. Natthida Chaisiri

MEDICALLY REVIEWED

Fertility Specialist · Bangkok

Last reviewed: February 18, 2026

Medical References

What's Included

Genetic counselling consultation
Custom probe development
Embryo biopsy procedure
Genetic analysis
Results & recommendations
Dedicated care coordinator

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PGT-M in Thailand