Embryology and Andrology Laboratory Services

The University of Kansas Health System offers full-service embryology and andrology laboratories in support of Advanced Reproductive Medicine fertility services. Our laboratories in Overland Park, Kansas, and Gladstone, Missouri, serve the Kansas City metropolitan area and beyond.

The embryology laboratory offers a range of services to support a variety of fertility treatments.

In vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer

We introduce the sperm and the egg in the lab and monitor them for evidence of fertilization. Once fertilized, the appropriate number of embryos are prepared for placement near the endometrial cavity.

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)

During the IVF process, when fertilization is hindered, we inject the sperm directly into the egg to help ensure fertilization.

Sperm retrieval, identification, processing and cryopreservation

Sperm is retrieved from men who have no sperm in their ejaculate. Our lab team identifies viable sperm and preserves it until the time is right for fertilization.

Embryo culture, cryopreservation, storage, thawing and transfer

Our team monitors embryos while they grow in the lab before transfer. We also preserve embryos until they the time is right for transfer.

The andrology laboratory offers a range of services to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of male infertility. The lab also provides andrology services to physicians and clinics throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area.

Semen analysis

This is the most basic and first step in determining fertility. It involves a sperm count, analysis of sperm shape by measures of strict morphology, and measuring sperm motility (movement). Semen analysis may also include specialized tests, including:

• Antisperm antibodies – We can test to see if antibodies are present, as they can hinder sperm motility and fertilization.
• Leukocytes in the semen – We check for inflammation or white blood cells in the semen that may indicate infection and limit fertility.
• Viability of sperm – We can determine if the sperm are alive. This test may help determine whether your treatment plan should include intrauterine insemination (IUI) or IVF and ICSI.

Semen preparation for IUI

Our lab team uses various techniques to wash and concentrate sperm before insemination.

Donor sperm

We work with many sperm banks to provide therapeutic donor sperm inseminations (TDI). We receive and store donor sperm and prepare it for insemination.

Semen preparation for IVF

We use various techniques to specifically prepare semen or donor sperm for IVF.

Preparation of sperm from testicular biopsy

We prepare sperm retrieved through biopsy for IVF or cryopreservation.

Sperm cryopreservation and banking

Through cryopreservation, we can help you save sperm for future use. We also store sperm for infertility treatment and fertility preservation.

Post-vasectomy semen analysis

We provide this test to confirm that sperm is absent from the semen after vasectomy.