What embryology services does the IVF lab provide?

Our embryology lab provides comprehensive services including conventional IVF, ICSI, embryo culture, blastocyst development, assisted hatching, embryo grading, time-lapse monitoring, vitrification for freezing, and coordination of PGT genetic testing.

Who directs the embryology laboratory?

The Omni Med Laboratory is directed by Dr. Dmitri Dozortsev, a pioneering embryologist with extensive experience in advanced reproductive technologies and IVF laboratory management.

What is ICSI and when is it recommended?

ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg. It's recommended for male factor infertility, previous fertilization failures, or when using frozen eggs or surgically retrieved sperm.

How long are embryos cultured in the lab?

Embryos are typically cultured for 3-6 days. Day 3 embryos (cleavage stage) or Day 5-6 embryos (blastocyst stage) may be transferred or frozen, with blastocysts often having higher implantation rates.

What technology does the embryology lab use?

Our state-of-the-art lab features specialized incubators with controlled gas and temperature, time-lapse imaging systems for continuous monitoring, micromanipulation equipment for ICSI, and advanced vitrification technology for cryopreservation.

Advanced Embryology Lab

WHERE SCIENCE MEETS PRECISION

Advanced Embryology Laboratory

At Advanced Fertility Center of Texas, your IVF journey is supported by one of the most advanced embryology laboratories and IVF labs in Houston, Texas. Powered by Omni Med Laboratory and directed by world-renowned embryologist and reproductive physiologist Dmitri Dozortsev, a pioneer in reproductive science and one of the first to introduce ICSI in the United States. From fertilization and embryo culture to embryo development and preservation, every step in our IVF laboratory is carefully managed to maximize implantation and improve your chances of a successful pregnancy outcome.

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

Inside the IVF & Andrology Lab: Every Step Matters

The IVF laboratory and andrology lab is the most delicate and essential step of the reproductive process. Omni Med Laboratory's highly trained team of embryologists and lab specialists manages every phase, from egg and sperm preparation to embryo development and preservation, using advanced technology.

Including:

Semen analysis (S/A) and sperm preparation (including sperm washing for IUI or IVF) in our andrology lab
Egg (oocyte) retrieval and evaluation after ovarian stimulation
Fertilization via conventional IVF or ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
Embryo culture, monitoring, and blastocyst development scoring
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT-A and PGT-M) to assess chromosomal or inherited conditions
Cryopreservation of embryos, eggs (oocytes), and sperm using rapid vitrification
Precise coordination with our fertility specialists to optimize embryo transfer timing and success

Every step is performed in a sterile, carefully controlled embryology laboratory environment, designed to support fertilization, embryo viability, and your best chance of a successful pregnancy.

PRECISION DIAGNOSTICS

Lab Testing & Cycle Monitoring Support

In addition to embryology lab and andrology services, Omni Med Laboratory performs in-house hormone testing critical for IVF cycle monitoring and timing, including:

Estradiol (E2) – to track follicle development and response to stimulation
Luteinizing Hormone (LH) – to detect ovulation surges or premature LH rises
Progesterone (P4) – to evaluate luteal phase support or readiness for embryo transfer

Having these tests processed onsite allows for faster results, same-day decisions, and seamless communication between your fertility specialist and the lab team, improving cycle precision and outcomes.

EMBRYOLOGY EXPERTISE

Embryo Development Stages

After fertilization, embryos progress through specific stages:

Zygote Stage (Day 1): Two pronuclei form (from each parent).
Cleavage Stage (Days 2–3): Cells divide into 6–10 cells.
Morula Stage (Day 4): Cells compact into a tight ball.
Blastocyst Stage (Days 5–6): Fluid-filled cavity forms, with distinct inner and outer cell layers.

Embryos that reach the blastocyst stage tend to have a higher implantation potential. Our lab uses time-lapse imaging, advanced grading systems, and expert embryologist oversight to help select the best-quality embryos for transfer or cryopreservation.

This careful observation process gives each embryo the best chance for success — and gives you peace of mind during your IVF journey.

ADVANCED TECHNIQUE

ICSI: Precision Fertilization When You Need It Most

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a highly specialized technique used to inject a single sperm directly into an egg. This method, pioneered in the U.S. by Dr. Dozortsev, significantly increases fertilization success, especially in cases of:

Low sperm count or motility
Poor sperm morphology
Prior IVF failure
Frozen or surgically retrieved sperm
Embryos undergoing PGT

GENETIC SCREENING

Embryo Biopsy & Genetic Testing (PGT)

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT-A or PGT-M) allows us to test embryos before transfer to ensure chromosomal normalcy and reduce the risk of miscarriage or implantation failure.

PGT Helps:

Identify genetically normal embryos
Improve implantation and pregnancy rates
Reduce miscarriage risk
Allow for optional gender selection
Support family planning for genetic carriers

Embryo biopsies are performed at the blastocyst stage, and results are typically available within 7–10 days. Embryos are cryopreserved while awaiting results.

PRESERVATION TECHNOLOGY

Cryopreservation: Freezing Embryos, Eggs & Sperm

Using vitrification, our embryology lab freezes reproductive cells and embryos with high survival rates during thawing.

Cryopreservation options include:

Embryo freezing for future transfers
Egg freezing for elective or medical fertility preservation
Sperm freezing before cancer treatment, surgery, or donation
Long-term storage and embryo banking for family planning

LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE

Meet Omni-Med Laboratory's Director, a Global Embryology Leader:

Dmitri Dozortsev

President, American College of Embryology
One of the original innovators of ICSI in the U.S.
Decades of experience in IVF lab innovation and education
Leading authority on embryo biopsy, culture media, and fertilization protocols

"The IVF lab is where science meets creation. Every detail matters."
— Dr. Dmitri Dozortsev

Ready to Explore Advanced IVF Lab Options?

If you are considering IVF with genetic testing, ICSI, or embryo preservation, our team is here to guide you with compassion, data-driven care, and world-class lab support.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Locations: Houston • The Woodlands • College Station