Exploration of decision-making regarding the transfer of mosaic embryos following preimplantation genetic testing: a qualitative study

STUDY QUESTION: What are patients’ reasoning and decisional needs in relation to the transfer of mosaic embryos following preimplantation genetic testing (PGT)? SUMMARY ANSWER: This study identified four themes, which were patients’ reasoning behind decision-making, their decisional needs, the influence of the mosaic embryos on the decision-making and the role of health professionals. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: To date, no study has investigated the reasoning of patients behind their decision-making and the influence of mosaic embryos. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: This is a cross-sectional study using a qualitative approach. Twenty participants were interviewed, and recruitment was ceased when no new information was identified in the data analysis. It ensured a sufficient sample size for a qualitative study. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: Participants were females with mosaic embryos. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted via telephone. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: Four themes were identified: reasoning behind decision-making, decisional needs, influence of mosaic embryos on decision-making and the role of health professionals. Potential risks of transferring mosaic embryos and prioritization of euploid embryos were the main reasons for not transferring mosaic embryos. A lack of alternatives, perceived benefits and risk tolerance were main reasons for transferring mosaic embryos. Patients reported that information on mosaic embryos, amniocentesis and termination was important to support their decision-making. Unmet needs relating to healthcare services and social support were reported. In addition, having mosaic embryos affected the patients’ emotional and behavioural responses, discussions about prenatal testing, attitudes to termination and further IVF cycles and attitudes towards PGT. Health professionals were found to influence the patients’ decision-making. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: Participants were recruited through one clinic, which may limit the transferability of results. Also, patients’ experiences in relation to financial aspects of PGT may not be relevant to other jurisdictions due to different healthcare policies. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: The results may inform how clinicians provide healthcare services based on factors influencing patients’ decision-making. Health professionals should be aware of the influence their attitudes can have on patients’ decision-making and should present information accordingly. Also, providing all relevant information may help to facilitate informed decision-making. Provision of psychological support from professionals and support groups is also critical during the process of testing and transfer. Patients have educational needs regarding mosaic embryos, and educational resources including decision aids in plain language are needed. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): B.M. was funded through a Senior Research Fellowship Level B (ID 1078523) from the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia. L.C. was supported by a University International Postgraduate Award under the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship. No other funding was received for this study. The authors report no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: N/A.