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The Georgia Reproductive Specialists' diagnostic laboratory is a JCAHO-accredited facility containing the most advanced technology for thorough semen and hormone analysis, sperm preparation and in vitro fertilization procedures. GRS has assembled a staff of scientists responsible for developing many of the leading assisted reproductive technology methods used by fertility specialists around the world. The dedication, initiative and scientific integrity of the GRS laboratory staff is unmatched in the Atlanta area.
Affordable and Flexible
Georgia Reproductive Specialists offers its andrology and endocrinology laboratory services to patients upon referral from their physician. If insurance will be filed for any laboratory test, we require 48 hours advanced notice prior to the appointment. Although the work done in the laboratory is time-intensive, our staff remains flexible and can provide immediate turnarounds when necessary. The fees for our laboratory services are highly competitive and negotiable for volume contracts.
Facilities
The laboratory is located at our Meridian Mark location, near Northside Hospital. The hours for the lab are 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with extended hours when necessary. For better testing results and sperm preparation, our laboratory facilities include comfortable rooms for the on-site collection of semen samples. We encourage physicians to come tour our facilities and meet our laboratory staff. For more information about our facilities, please email or call Michael Tucker, Scientific Director at 404-843-2229.
Andrology Services
The scientists in the Georgia Reproductive Specialists' laboratory are committed to examining every factor that may affect conception, from the obvious problem to the smallest deviation.
Semen Analysis
When analyzing a semen sample, our lab staff conducts the basic tests including volume, concentration, progression and motility. However, we also look beyond the basics for a more complete analysis. Specially stained samples are examined under high-magnification to determine the morphology. If necessary, we can also analyze hormone levels and test for the presence of sperm antibodies, a rare condition that can incapacitate sperm.
| - Volume |
- Viscosity |
| - Concentration |
- Morphology |
| - Motility |
- WBC/HPF |
| - Progression |
- Total motile sperm |
| - pH |
- Antibody presence |
Sperm Chromatin Structural Assay
New studies suggest that sperm with certain levels of DNA fragmentation serve as a strong predictor of reduced male fertility. Georgia Reproductive Specialists is the only program in the area offering SCSA, a test to measure the level of DNA fragmentation in the sperm, to enhance the diagnosis of and treatment for male infertility. A review of data on hundreds of semen samples show that patients with a DNA fragmentation level of greater than 30% are likely to have significantly-reduced fertility potential as well as a greater risk of miscarriage.
IUI Sperm Preparation
The experience of the laboratory staff has shown that using the basic "off-the-shelf" sperm preparation kits can lead to poor sperm recovery. For that reason, we identify potential problems through the initial semen analysis and then individualize the preparation process. We are able to manipulate sperm processing and optimize sperm viability for intrauterine insemination (IUI).
| - Pre- and post-wash analysis |
- Sperm examination |
Endocrine Testing
The results from the following endocrine tests can be provided on a stat basis or within six to eight hours, depending on the need:
- Estradiol
- Progesterone
- Insulin
- Prolactin
- LH
- FSH
- HCG
- TSH
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