I Have Zero Regrets about PGT-A Testing Our Embryos
Navigating the path to parenthood through IVF is a deeply personal journey, filled with hopes, challenges, and tough decisions. For me, one of those significant decisions was whether to invest in Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A). Reflecting on my experience, I want to share why this choice, despite its cost, proved to be right for me.
Why PGT-A?
When I was undergoing IVF, I faced the stark reality of the costs involved. IVF itself is an investment, and adding PGT-A to the mix might have seemed like an extravagance to some. But for me, it was a calculated decision based on a desire to maximize my chances of success in as few cycles as possible. Looking back, after how much money we spent in total, the PGT-A testing was a drop in the bucket.
One key statistic that guided my choice was the study indicating a 95% chance of pregnancy within three cycles when transferring euploid embryos (embryos with the correct number of chromosomes). The thought of potentially needing fewer cycles—and thus reducing my overall emotional and financial burden—felt like a reassuring factor amidst the uncertainty of infertility treatments. (If you are interested in learning about this commonly referenced study, you can find it HERE)
I maximized my chance of success…and then failed
I still remember the day of my first frozen embryo transfer (FET). I held onto a photo of that embryo, a small, fragile symbol of my hope. Unfortunately, despite the promise of PGT-A, the transfer didn’t result in implantation. I was devastated. It was a crushing blow, and I found myself questioning the value of every extra dollar spent on PGT-A. The heartache of seeing that beautiful embryo not succeed was overwhelming.
The emotional toll of infertility treatments is profound, and I grappled with feelings of discouragement and hopelessness as I prepared for my second FET cycle. It felt like the weight of my decisions and the money spent were all for naught. My hope felt fragile, just like that first embryo.
Trying Again
As I moved into my second FET cycle, my doubts loomed large. I held onto another photo of the embryo, just as I had with the first. Despite the shadow of my previous experience, I was determined to keep faith in the process and the choice I had made.
That embryo, which I once feared was another symbol of loss, grew into a beautiful little girl—my daughter. Looking back, that same embryo that felt like a distant hope now represents the fulfillment of my dreams. Each photo from that cycle is a testament to a journey that tested my resilience and strength. The extra investment in PGT-A potentially helped me avoid repeating the low point I felt after my first transfer cycle.
Finding Hope in Every Step
Infertility treatments are a journey filled with highs and lows. Investing in PGT-A was a step towards maximizing the possibility of a successful outcome, despite the unpredictable nature of IVF. For those navigating similar decisions, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits against the financial cost and emotional investment.
As I hold my daughter in my arms and look at the photos from those early days, I am reminded of why I made the choices I did. Each step, even the challenging ones, led to a beautiful ending that makes every bit of the journey worthwhile.
If you're facing similar decisions, know that you're not alone. It's okay to question and reassess, but remember that every choice you make is a step closer to achieving your dreams. And whatever your journey looks like, there is hope and support available to help you through it.
Feel free to reach out if you need guidance or simply someone to talk to. I’m here to support you on your path to parenthood.