Andrology and Reproductive Biology Laboratory

The Andrology and Reproductive Biology Laboratory (ARBL) performs all the tests needed to understand and treat cases of female or male infertility. It specialises in sperm analysis and the cryopreservation of gametes (spermatozoids and egg cells), fertilised egg cells and testicular and ovarian biopsies. It also has a sperm bank.

The ARBL provides:

• personalised welcome and follow-up
• of state-of-the-art treatments and all the services of a university hospital
• advice to doctors and patients regarding new or specialised services
• cryopreservation of egg cells, spermatozoids, fertilised egg cells, embryos and testicular and ovarian biopsies in accordance with the stipulations of the Reproductive Medicine Act (RMA).

These services are provided only if medically prescribed.

Andrology examinations

Andrology examinations take place by appointment from Monday to Thursday, from 7.30 to 9.00 and 12.30 to 13.30. They require prior admission through the Maternity Uniy reception desk (3rd floor).

Patients who, for various personal reasons, cannot provide a sperm sample in the laboratory are asked to contact the ARBL. A sterile container or a condom not toxic to spermatozoid will be issued to them for sperm collection at home.

Reporting the results

The results are sent in a form posted to the requesting doctors. In an emergency, they can be reported by fax or telephone.

The results of in vitro fertilisation are reported to the patient by telephone. The patients contact the ARBL directly on the day after fertilisation. It will tell them:

• the number of egg cells collected
• the number of egg cells fertilised
• the number of impregnated egg cells kept in culture with a view to embryo transfer
• the number of impregnated egg cells cryopreserved
• the number of embryos obtained
• the number of embryos cryopreserved
• the day and time of embryo transfer.

The staff of the ARBL and persons working temporarily in the laboratory (technicians, trainees, etc.) are subject to professional secrecy.

• 2001: the ARBL adopted standard ISO/IEC 17025 from the Swiss Accreditation Service (SAS).
• 2011: the laboratory adopted standard ISO/IEC 15189;2007, which is more suitable for medical laboratories.
• Since 2011, the ARBL has been certified to standard ISO 9001-2008.
• 2015: the ARBL adjusted to the changes in standard ISO/IEC 15189-2012.

Quality Assurance