How Advanced PGT-A Testing Can Help Identify the Most Suitable Embryo
An IVF treatment does not always follow the expected path. When results do not come, when there are few embryos available, or when there are doubts about their quality, it is natural to feel uncertainty and fear about whether the right decisions are being made.
In these moments, having more precise information can help patients move forward with greater confidence.
For this reason, Instituto Bernabeu has incorporated a more advanced way of analysing embryos, allowing them to be studied in greater depth and helping to improve decision-making throughout the treatment.
A More Complete Analysis to Better Understand Each Embryo
Embryo genetic testing (PGT-A) makes it possible to identify abnormalities in the number of chromosomes. In addition to this, Instituto Bernabeu has incorporated SNP analysis (Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms), small variations in DNA that act as markers distributed throughout the chromosomes. Although the name sounds complex, the idea is straightforward: the more markers analysed, the more complete the embryo’s “genetic map”.
While conventional PGT-A detects whether there are too many or too few chromosomes, SNP analysis adds an extra layer of information that can identify more subtle abnormalities and increase the reliability of the diagnosis. The result is a more precise picture of each embryo, helping to make decisions with greater confidence.
How Can This Analysis Help Patients?
Greater confidence in embryo selection
This analysis can detect complex abnormalities that may not be identified with more basic techniques, helping to reduce the risk of transferring embryos with a low chance of development.
Making the most of available embryos
In some cases, embryos that initially raised doubts — for example, because the fertilisation process did not follow the usual pattern — can be analysed in greater detail thanks to SNP analysis. In certain situations, these embryos can be confirmed as genetically normal, expanding the options available. This is especially relevant for patients with low ovarian reserve or a limited number of embryos, where every embryo counts.
More reliable results
A deeper analysis of genetic material helps reduce potential errors and increases confidence in the results obtained.
Additional control against genetic contamination
SNP analysis can also detect whether results may be affected by the presence of external DNA — for example, from other cells — which could lead to incorrect interpretations. Identifying this possibility adds an extra layer of safety and ensures that decisions are always based on reliable information.
More personalised decisions
Having more information allows specialists to better tailor each step of the treatment to the specific situation of each patient.
A Key Advantage: Having an In-house Genetics Laboratory
The integration of this advanced analysis is possible because Instituto Bernabeu has its own genetics laboratory, fully integrated within its clinical structure.
This model allows geneticists, embryologists and specialists to work closely together from the very beginning, analysing each case as a whole and taking into account not only genetic results, but also the patient’s full medical history. This global view supports more informed and personalised decisions.
In addition, by carrying out the entire process within the centre, there is direct control over every stage of the analysis. This ensures greater safety in sample handling, continuous supervision and strict quality control protocols — key aspects when dealing with such sensitive information as embryo genetics.
Another important benefit is faster turnaround times. Without relying on external laboratories, results can be obtained more quickly, allowing treatment to move forward without unnecessary delays and reducing uncertainty during the waiting period.
Finally, having an in-house laboratory supports continuous innovation. New techniques and improvements in genetic analysis can be implemented early, always with the aim of offering patients increasingly precise and reliable options.
As Dr Belén Lledó, Director of IB Biotech, Instituto Bernabeu, explains: “SNP analysis allows us to study each embryo in much greater detail. This translates into safer decisions and better chances of success for each patient. Having this technology integrated within our own laboratory makes a real difference to the care we provide.”
Reducing Uncertainty at Key Moments of Treatment
The integration of this more comprehensive genetic analysis has a clear objective: to help patients make decisions with greater confidence in a process that is often marked by uncertainty.
It is not only about applying more advanced technology, but about using it to better respond to each patient’s real needs. Having more information about embryos makes it possible to guide treatment more precisely, avoiding unnecessary attempts and focusing each step on the options with the highest chances of success.
This approach combines research, clinical experience and personalisation to offer care that is more closely adapted to each case. In a context where every decision can have a significant emotional impact, having tools that provide clarity and scientific support is especially important.
In this way, Instituto Bernabeu continues to move forward with a model of care in which diagnostic precision and patient support go hand in hand, with the aim of offering not only the best available options, but also greater peace of mind throughout the entire process.
Dr Belén Lledó, Director of IB Biotech and Scientific Coordinator of the R&D&I Committee, at the IVF Lab
