A UK clinical trial suggests that genetic testing of IVF-created embryos, known as Genetic IVF, could help women over 35 conceive in fewer attempts and less time. The study led by researchers at King’s College London, King’s College Hospital, and King’s Fertility focused exclusively on women aged 35–42. This group is more likely to produce embryos with chromosomal abnormalities. These abnormalities hinder implantation and increase miscarriage risk.
Published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, this is the first randomised controlled trial worldwide. It examines the benefits of Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A) in this age group, highlighting the importance of Genetic IVF.
Why PGT-A Matters for Older Women
- Chromosomal abnormalities become more common with maternal age, reducing chances of a healthy pregnancy. Genetic IVF can help mitigate this risk.
- NICE guidelines currently do not recommend routine PGT-A. Earlier studies largely influenced this decision. They included younger women with lower rates of abnormal embryos.
- This trial included not just “normal” embryos but also mosaic embryos (containing both normal and abnormal cells), which are common in IVF but often excluded from research.
Trial Design
- Participants: 100 women aged 35–42 undergoing fertility treatment at King’s Fertility
- Duration: June 2021 – June 2023
- Groups: 50 received PGT-A, 50 did not (control group)
- Focus: Assess whether PGT-A improves live birth rates and shortens time to pregnancy within the context of Genetic IVF.
Key Findings
- Live birth rate after up to three transfers:
- PGT-A group: 72%
- Control group: 52%
- Women who underwent PGT-A conceived in fewer transfers, reducing time to pregnancy and demonstrating the benefits of Genetic IVF.
The differences did not reach statistical significance because the sample size was small. However, researchers say the trend indicates potential benefit. This warrants larger multi-centre trials.
Expert Reactions
- Dr Yusuf Beebeejaun, King’s College London & King’s Fertility:
“Women in this age group are more likely to create embryos with the wrong number of chromosomes. Our findings suggest that targeted use of PGT-A through Genetic IVF could help more women have a baby sooner. It may also reduce the emotional toll of repeated unsuccessful cycles.” - Dr Sesh Sunkara, King’s College London & King’s Fertility:
“By focusing exclusively on women aged 35–42 and including mosaic embryos, we have addressed questions previous studies did not. Larger trials are now needed.” - Dr Ippokratis Sarris, Director of King’s Fertility:
“This pioneering trial addresses one of the most important questions in IVF treatment for women over 35. We are proud to have led it and look forward to expanding this research.”
Bottom Line
This pilot trial provides early evidence that PGT-A may improve IVF outcomes for women over 35 by increasing live birth rates and reducing time to pregnancy, showcasing the potential of Genetic IVF.
Larger multi-centre studies will now be crucial to confirm these findings and inform future fertility guidelines.