PGT-A testing is marketed as a smart, science-backed way to improve your chances of a healthy baby. But what if it’s not giving you the full story?
In this eye-opening conversation, fertility attorney and IVF mom Allison Freeman joins Alyssa to unpack the science, marketing, and legal implications behind preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A).
From personal IVF loss to class-action lawsuits, Allison shares why more patients are questioning the test—and why some may be discarding embryos based on misleading or unvalidated results.
🎧 If you’re considering embryo testing—or already making transfer decisions—this episode is a must-listen.
What You’ll Learn:
02:16 — Allison’s IVF journey and two very different paths to motherhood
09:08 — How a personal red flag during IUI launched her legal advocacy
16:24 — What PGT-A testing is, and how it’s commonly presented to patients
19:04 — The rise in “zero embryos” after testing—and what that might mean
21:55 — Why PGT-A biopsies aren’t as definitive as many think
26:27 — The risks of relying on embryo testing to avoid miscarriage
29:46 — How PGT-A impacts surrogacy matching and timeline delays
34:54 — What ASRM’s new guidance really says—and what patients often miss
Resources Mentioned:
Key Takeaways:
PGT-A is widely used—but hasn’t been validated the way most patients expect
The test analyzes placental (not fetal) tissue, which can cause discrepancies
Surrogates and agencies often require PGT-A without understanding its limitations
Patients should ask: what am I being promised, and is there data to back it up?
🎧 Considering embryo testing? With ASRM’s most recent guidance, and the BloomBridge surrogacy app you'll be prepared for tough decisions.
Dr. Alyssa Small Layne is a board-certified OB/GYN and minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon, but more importantly, she's someone who truly gets the surrogacy journey. After navigating her own struggles with fibroids, infertility, and surrogacy, she founded JUNIE to make the process easier and more accessible for intended parents.
On Surrogacy Made Simple, Dr. Layne brings her medical expertise and personal experience together to break down surrogacy in a clear, honest, and supportive way—so you can feel confident and informed every step of the way.
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