PGS in Mexico

Is gender selection legal in Mexico?

Yes, gender selection (often referred to as Family Balancing) is legal in Mexico. Unlike Canada, the UK, Australia, and China, where selecting the sex of a baby for non-medical reasons is prohibited, Mexico allows parents to choose the gender of the embryos transferred during IVF. This is done via PGS/PGT-A testing, which identifies the chromosomal makeup (XX for female, XY for male) of each embryo with near 100% accuracy.

How accurate is PGS testing?

PGS (PGT-A) using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology is extremely accurate, typically over 99%. It detects not only the gender but also chromosomal abnormalities (aneuploidies) such as Down syndrome, Turner syndrome, and Edwards syndrome. While no test is 100% perfect due to biological phenomena like mosaicism, PGS provides the highest possible certainty for embryo health and gender prior to pregnancy.

How long do I need to stay in Mexico?

A typical IVF+PGS cycle requires a stay of about 15-20 days if you do the full stimulation in Mexico. However, many patients start stimulation medication at home and travel to Mexico for the last 7-10 days for monitoring and egg retrieval. Since PGS testing takes about 5-10 days for results, you usually return home after retrieval and come back later (or in a subsequent month) for a Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET), which requires a shorter stay of 3-5 days.

Is IVF/PGS safe in Mexico?

Yes, it is very safe. Reputable fertility clinics in Mexico operate under strict sanitary regulations and often follow US or European protocols. They utilize state-of-the-art clean rooms and embryology labs. The risks associated with the medical procedures (egg retrieval, anesthesia) are statistically the same as in the US. PlacidWay ensures you connect with vetted clinics that maintain high safety records.

What is the age limit for IVF in Mexico?

Clinics in Mexico are often more flexible than those in other countries, but ethical guidelines typically suggest an upper age limit of 50-52 for women carrying the pregnancy, ensuring maternal health. For women over 42-43 using their own eggs, PGS is highly recommended due to lower egg quality. Egg donation programs are widely available for women who cannot use their own eggs, with practically no waiting lists.

Can I travel with fertility medications?

Yes, you can travel with fertility medications as long as you have a prescription. However, many patients choose to buy their medications in Mexico because they are significantly cheaper (often 50-70% less) and available at specialized pharmacies near the clinics. Your Mexican fertility specialist can provide the necessary prescriptions for you to purchase them locally upon arrival.

Does PGS damage the embryo?

The risk is minimal. PGS involves taking a biopsy of 3-5 cells from the trophectoderm (the outer layer that becomes the placenta) of a blastocyst (Day 5 embryo). The inner cell mass (which becomes the baby) is left untouched. In skilled hands, survival rates for embryos after biopsy and freezing are over 98%. It is a safe and routine procedure in modern embryology.

Can single parents or LGBTQ+ couples receive treatment?

Absolutely. Mexico is a very progressive destination for fertility tourism. Clinics welcome single women, single men (via surrogacy), and same-sex couples. Reciprocal IVF (ROPA method) is popular for lesbian couples, where one partner provides the eggs and the other carries the pregnancy. There is generally no discrimination based on marital status or sexual orientation.

Can I freeze embryos and ship them home?

Yes, you can freeze embryos in Mexico. However, shipping biological material across borders involves complex permits and high costs using specialized couriers (e.g., Cryoport). Most patients find it easier and more cost-effective to travel to Mexico for the transfer rather than shipping embryos to their home country. Clinics offer affordable annual storage fees for frozen embryos.

What happens if no normal embryos are found?

This is a possibility, especially with advanced maternal age. If PGS reveals that all embryos are aneuploid (abnormal), the cycle is canceled to prevent a failed transfer or miscarriage. While emotionally difficult, this saves the cost and heartache of a failed pregnancy. Doctors will then review the protocol and may suggest another cycle with different stimulation, or discuss egg donation as an alternative.

Certified Reproductive Biologists

AMMR & REDLARA Certified

Complex Case Experts

Specializing in Recurrent Loss

Empathetic Communication

Bilingual & Supportive

Clinic Vetting

We pre-screen clinics for AMMR certification, lab technology standards, and success rates, ensuring you choose a provider with a proven track record.

Package Negotiation

We help you find and understand "guarantee" or multi-cycle packages that include PGS, protecting you from hidden costs and maximizing value.

Virtual Consultations

We arrange initial video calls with fertility specialists, allowing you to discuss your medical history and ask sensitive questions from the privacy of your home.

Logistical Support

We assist with travel arrangements, hotel recommendations near the clinic, and airport transfers to ensure a stress-free arrival.

Prescription Assistance

We guide you on how to obtain fertility medications locally in Mexico, helping you access significant savings compared to US pharmacy prices.

24/7 Patient Advocacy

Our dedicated team is available around the clock to support you, answer questions, and act as a bridge between you and the clinic throughout your cycle.