The scientific study, led by IVF-Life Madrid embryologist Alba Alarcón, investigates whether factors such as embryo morphology, the day of biopsy, oocyte type, and maternal age influence the likelihood of an embryo being euploid or aneuploid.
Embryo ploidy refers to the correct number of chromosomes. Euploid embryos are more likely to implant successfully, result in a healthy pregnancy, and avoid miscarriage. In contrast, aneuploid embryos have chromosomal abnormalities and are a major cause of implantation failure and spontaneous miscarriage.
Although morphology has traditionally been used to select embryos, it does not always accurately predict genetic quality. Therefore, preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) has become a key tool for improving embryo selection.

The research led by Alba Alarcón has been selected for presentation at the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) Congress, to be held in Paris from 29 June to 2 July.
The analysis, which includes over 7,500 blastocysts, offers new insights into which embryo characteristics are associated with a higher likelihood of being genetically normal.
Notably, the study reveals that embryo morphology—particularly the quality of the trophectoderm (TE) and inner cell mass (ICM)—significantly impacts ploidy. As morphological quality decreases, the risk of aneuploidy increases. Embryos classified as ICM C or TE C are significantly more likely to have chromosomal abnormalities compared to those with A-grade morphology.
Another key factor is the timing of the biopsy. Embryos that reach the blastocyst stage on day 6 show a higher proportion of aneuploidies than those on day 5, suggesting that slower development may be linked to lower genetic competence.
Additionally, blastocyst expansion acts as a protective variable: embryos with a higher degree of expansion (grade 6) show fewer chromosomal abnormalities than those with lower expansion. Maternal age also remains a crucial factor. Each additional year increases the risk of aneuploidy, highlighting the importance of considering the patient’s (or donor’s) age in treatment planning. In contrast, the type of oocyte used—fresh or frozen—did not significantly influence genetic quality.
“These findings not only enrich scientific knowledge but also have direct clinical applications. More accurately identifying embryos with higher reproductive potential allows for optimised selection, reducing failed transfers and improving success rates,” says Alba Alarcón.