Do you need PGT-M after genetic carrier screening?

Genetic carrier screening looks for variants in a person who may be healthy but able to pass an inherited condition to a child. It does not by itself diagnose a disease in you or decide which reproductive option is right.

PGT-M is a laboratory test used with IVF to examine embryos for a specific inherited condition before an embryo transfer. It requires a clearly identified family variant and careful laboratory planning. Depending on the result, options can include trying to conceive without embryo testing, diagnostic testing during pregnancy, donor eggs or sperm, adoption, or IVF with PGT-M.

Read the report with a genetic counsellor or fertility specialist. Confirm the exact gene variant, whether the other biological parent should be tested, and whether the finding is relevant to the condition being discussed. If both partners are carriers, ask how inheritance could affect a pregnancy and whether the laboratory can design a reliable embryo test. Consider the time, emotional demands and medical steps involved in IVF before choosing a path.

Arrange specialist advice before pregnancy or fertility treatment when a screening report identifies a clinically significant variant, a known inherited condition runs in the family, or both partners receive carrier findings. Seek prompt clarification if the report is marked uncertain or if the result does not explain what it means for a current pregnancy.

Ask whether the result is confirmed, whether partner testing is needed, what condition-specific risk is being discussed, and whether PGT-M is technically available. Ask about alternatives, IVF stages, possible results, and how genetic counselling will support your decision.