testing & screening
Testing & Screenings
Comprehensive and Extensive Testing For Your Whole Health
At MORE901 in Memphis, Susan Lacy, MD, FACOG, and our team provide comprehensive women’s blood tests designed to support your overall wellness and reproductive health. Your visit may include a Pap smear, HPV testing, breast exam, contraceptive counseling, hormone and menopause discussions, STI testing, and personalized recommendations based on your age, medical history, symptoms, and risk factors. We take time to listen, answer questions, and ensure you feel informed and comfortable throughout your care experience.
Protecting your long-term health through prevention and early detection is one of the most important parts of health care. We believe patients deserve clear guidance, compassionate support, and personalized care! We break down the different types of tests into two major categories: swabs and bloodwork.
Women's lab tests - Blood Tests
additional Tests
STI and STD screening recommendations vary by age, gender assigned at birth, and individual risk factors. Routine testing is typically focused on sexually active people, pregnant women, and those who are known to be higher risk. At MORE 901, the STI/STD blood women’s lab tests most commonly performed are for HIV, herpes, and syphilis.
In general, you should get tested for HIV if you are considered high risk or know that you have been exposed. HSV has similar guidelines, with no recommended schedule for routine testing and testing only suggested if you have active symptoms and/or know that you have been exposed. For syphilis, testing is recommended once a year if you are sexually active and once every three to six months if you have multiple partners or are a man who has sex with men.
What other sexually transmitted infections or diseases can be tested?
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
What is Human Immunodeficiency Virus?
Most commonly referred to as HIV, human immunodeficiency virus is exactly what it sounds like- a virus that targets white blood cells, weakening the body’s immune system. It is often closely associated with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, but that can be misleading. Having HIV does not mean that you automatically have AIDS, but if left untreated it can lead to that (what’s known as Stage 3, the most severe stage of HIV infection.) Here at MORE 901, we test for HIV with a simple blood draw.
It also makes you much more susceptible to getting sick with other diseases, infections, and some cancers. There is no cure, but with proper medical care and treatment people who are HIV+ can live long, healthy lives while also protecting their partners.
HIV is spread through bodily fluids, including blood, semen, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, as well as sharing needles or other medical or drug paraphernalia that pierce the skin. It is not spread through saliva or unbroken skin-to-skin contact.
The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested. Current guidelines suggest everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 should get tested at least once in their lifetime, but anyone with a higher risk factor should be tested regularly.
Systemic health and socioeconomic disparities have led to higher infection rates among Black and Hispanic communities. Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men are also more at risk. Lastly, people who inject drugs are more susceptible to contracting HIV by sharing needles and syringes.
What are the symptoms of Human Immunodeficiency Virus?
Symptoms of HIV can vary depending on the stage of infection. Some people may not ever present symptoms at all. Most people, however, have flu-like symptoms within two to four weeks after first being infected. Because these symptoms can often be confused with other issues, HIV spreads more easily in the first few months after a person is infected because many are unaware of their status.
In the first stage of infection, the most common symptoms are:
- fever
- headache
- sore throat
- chills
- fatigue
- muscle aches
- sometimes a rash
In addition to the ones above, the most common symptoms in the second stage of infection are:
- swollen lymph nodes
- diarrhea
- cough
- weightloss
If HIV is undetected for too long, or is not treated, serious illnesses can develop, such as tuberculosis (TB), cryptococcal meningitis, and some cancers, including lymphomas and sarcomas.
What if I test positive for Human Immunodeficiency Virus?
If you are positive for HIV, your lab results will read “Reactive” in the patient portal. For negative, it will read “Nonreactive.” However, if you receive a negative result but know that you have been exposed, its recommended to get a second test done after 28 days to confirm.
Its understandable that getting a positive result can be scary, but even though there is no cure, advances in modern medicine have significantly improved the outcome of people living with HIV. Treatment for HIV, called antiretroviral therapy or ART, involves taking daily medication to stop the virus from replicating in the body. This allows your immune system to get stronger and lower the amount of the virus in your blood. Once the medication suppresses the virus enough, you can have what’s called an “undetectable load.” If that happens, you will not transmit HIV to others through sex. It also reduces the risk of transmission through sharing drug injection equipment and during pregnancy, labor, and delivery.
Waiting too long to get tested and/or start treatment lowers the chances of ART working, which is why regular testing for at-risk individuals is so important!
How can I protect myself from contracting Human Immunodeficiency Virus?
HIV is a completely preventable disease. There are more ways than ever to assist in preventing contracting the infection, including:
- using condoms the correct way every time you engage in sexual activity
- never sharing needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment
- getting regular HIV and STI testing, especially if you are high risk or have multiple partners
- engaging in open conversations about your status with any sexual partners
- taking PrEP
PrEP, which stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis, are prescription medications that help prevent HIV infections in people who are HIV negative but are at high risk for being exposed to it. It only prevents against HIV, not other STIs or pregnancy, so barrier methods should still be used during sex. You also must get an HIV test every 3 months to confirm your status and maintain your prescription. If you’re interested in possibly getting on PrEP, don’t wait to book your appointment!
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
What is Herpes Simplex Virus?
Also known as HSV, or simply “herpes” for many, herpes simplex virus is a highly contagious viral infection that causes fluid filled blisters and sores on or in different parts of the body. There are two primary types, HSV-1 (typically associated with oral herpes) and HSV-2 (typically associated with genital herpes.)
HSV spreads through skin-to-skin contact, including oral, genital, and anal contact, when the virus enters your body through your skin and mucous membranes and uses your cells to replicate. It can spread even if you aren’t having an outbreak. Its important to understand that BOTH HSV-1 and HSV-2 can transmitted to either area, oral or genital. So if a partner has HSV-1 (oral herpes) and they perform oral sex on you, you can get HSV-2 (genital herpes) from them, and vice versa.
There is no cure for any type of HSV, and once you contract any variation of the virus you have it for life, but oftentimes most people are asymptomatic and antiviral medications can be prescribed to manage outbreaks, reduce the time it takes an outbreak to heal, and reduce the risk of transmitting the infection to others.
What are the symptoms of Herpes Simplex Virus?
The incubation period for HSV ranges from one to 26 days, but symptoms typically develop between six to eight days after first getting the virus. This is called the “primary infection.” It travels to nearby nerve cells, begins replicating, and your immune system then recognizes an intruder and sends out immune cells. This leads to inflammation and the forming of blisters on your skin. Other symptoms might include:
- A tingling, itching, or burning sensation on your lips and/or around your mouth (HSV-1)
- Swollen lymph nodes (HSV-1)
- An itching or tingling sensation in your genital area (HSV-2)
- Fever
- Headache
Some people get infected and don’t develop symptoms right away. It could take months or years, in rare cases, for the virus to activate. Triggers that could cause a symptom outbreak include:
- Fever
- Stress
- Weakened immune system
- Hormonal changes (such as your monthly menstruation cycle)
Additionally, potential triggers specific to HSV-1 include:
- Sun exposure
- Upper respiratory infection
- Trauma to your mouth area
Due to its highly contagious nature and the possibility of being asymptomatic, regular testing is imperative to know your HSV status.
What if I test positive for Herpes Simplex Virus?
If you are positive for HSV, your lab results will read “Reactive” in the patient portal, and “Nonreactive” if you are negative. Living with HSV doesn’t mean your regular or sexual life has to change drastically, though! While there is no cure, there are medications to help reduce outbreaks and the threat of transmission.
Based on the type of HSV you have, its severity, and how strong your immune system is, daily antiviral medication can be taken orally, topically, or intravenously. The most common option are oral medications.
Episodic treatment is short-term treatment that targets an outbreak. The sooner you take it, the better it works to make symptoms less severe, help pain go away faster, help sores heal faster, and lower the amount of virus that sheds from your skin.
Chronic suppressive treatment is the taking of antiviral medications long term. We recommend this option most for patients who test positive for HSV-2 (genital herpes) as well as for people who experience frequent or severe outbreaks (typically at least six outbreaks a year), are immunocompromised, and/or have one or more sexual partners who do not have HSV.
Most people with herpes simplex virus have fewer outbreaks as they get older, particularly after age 35.
How can I protect myself from contracting Herpes Simplex Virus?
HIV is a completely preventable disease. There are more ways than ever to assist in preventing contracting the infection, including:
- using condoms the correct way every time you engage in sexual activity
- never sharing needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment
- getting regular HIV and STI testing, especially if you are high risk or have multiple partners
- engaging in open conversations about your status with any sexual partners
- taking PrEP
PrEP, which stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis, are prescription medications that help prevent HIV infections in people who are HIV negative but are at high risk for being exposed to it. It only prevents against HIV, not other STIs or pregnancy, so barrier methods should still be used during sex. You also must get an HIV test every 3 months to confirm your status and maintain your prescription. If you’re interested in possibly getting on PrEP, don’t wait to book your appointment!
Syphilis (RPR)
What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a bacterial STI caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. Its sometimes referred to as “the great imitator” because its symptoms often mimic other diseases.
It is treatable with antibiotics, but how much you need and how long you take it depends on the stage of the infection and your symptoms. Left untreated, it can lead to serious problems involving your brain, heart, eyes, and nervous system.
This STI is most contagious in the early stages and during pregnancy, and you can pass the infection to the fetus, which is known as congenital syphilis. This is very serious as it can cause severe health problems in babies, including death. These are just two reasons why getting checked early is so important!
Although Syphilis is not as common as other STIs, it still should be taken seriously. Anyone can contract Syphilis, but you are more at risk if you:
- are a man who has sex with men
- have unprotected sex, especially with more than one partner
- have HIV
- have tested positive for other STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or herpes
What are the stages and symptoms of Syphilis?
Syphilis progresses through four distinct stages. It causes different symptoms in each stage, and is more contagious in the first and second stages.
The first stage is known as primary syphilis. It typically starts anywhere from three to 90 days after exposure and manifests with one or more firm, round, and usually painless sores called chancres at the site of infection (generally your genitals or mouth.) In fact, you may not even be aware of the sore(s) at first or might dismiss them as a pimple or regular skin lesion. The sore(s) will go away on their own in a few weeks or months, but this does NOT mean the infection is gone. It can still be passed to others through vaginal, anal, and/or oral sex and if left untreated, it progresses to the second stage.
The second stage is called secondary syphilis. It occurs about one to six months after the sore goes away, replaced by a rough and bumpy rash that can cover your whole body, including your palms and the soles of your feet. The rash is not typically itchy, but you may have other symptoms like:
- swollen lymph nodes
- fatigue
- fever
- muscle aches
- headache
- weight and/or hair loss
- wart-like sores
These symptoms can go on for months or even years. Again, syphilis is still present in your body even if the rash and other symptoms are gone and it can still be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Left untreated, the infection will move to the third stage, known as latent syphilis.
During latent syphilis, there aren’t typically any outward signs or symptoms of the infection, although occasionally some people may experience mild flare-ups. It’s rare to pass syphilis to any sexual partners during this stage. However, latent syphilis can last up to 20 years and can damage your heart, nerves, organs, and bones. Left untreated, the infection can move on to the final stage.
The last stage is known as late or tertiary syphilis. For many people, symptoms don’t progress to this stage even when the infection does. Only about 20% of people progress to late syphilis, but those who do suffer from serious health problems, such as:
- vision problems, including blindness
- movement disorders and muscle problems
- nerve damage
- seizures
- heart disease
- dementia and cognitive health problems
- brain damage
What if I test positive for Syphilis?
For our syphilis test here at More 901, your results in the patient portal will read as “Reactive” if you are positive. While the report won’t tell us specifically what stage you are in, we can get a good approximation based on your sexual history and how long you end up on antibiotics. After a round of antibiotics its important to come back so we can retest you to make sure the infection is gone.
It’s important to refrain from all sexual activity until you test negative to avoid passing the infection to other people, and you should contact anyone you’ve had sex with within the last two years to let them know they should get tested.
You can get syphilis more than once, so be sure to practice safe sex and get tested regularly if you are at a higher risk.
Remember, syphilis is curable but any effects on your heart, brain, eyes, or other organs are not, so the sooner you start treatment the better your prognosis will be!
How can I protect myself from contracting Syphilis?
As with almost all STIs, the only 100% way to be sure you won’t contract syphilis is abstinence. However, its easy to reduce your risk by always using contraceptive barrier methods, such as condoms and dental dams, and making sure you are using them properly. Ask everyone you have sexual encounters with about their history and if they’ve been tested, and be sure to get regular testing if you are high risk.
essential wellness panels
These blood tests are helpful in assessing your baseline health, and also can help identify early signs of common conditions. For healthy adults under 40 without any symptoms or previously diagnosed chronic conditions, these panels are typically only done about every three years. For adults over 40 years of age, they should be done yearly at your annual exam.
what can an essential wellness panel include?
Complete Blood Count
What is a CBC panel?
A complete blood count is a standard lab test that allows Dr. Lacy to evaluate your overall health and detect infections and other disorders by looking at different components of your blood. It measures the three main types of cells in your blood- red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets- as well as hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Reference ranges can vary slightly depending on the lab, your age, your hormone status, and various health conditions, which is why a member of the MORE 901 team will call to go over your results with you after they are reviewed by Dr. Lacy.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a CBC panel?
No. A CBC panel is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would. It is helpful to be well hydrated!
When and where can I find my CBC results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What do all of the names & abbreviations on my lab results stand for?
- WBC – “white blood cells.” These fight infections and diseases.
- RBC – “red blood cells.” These carry oxygen throughout your body.
- Hb or Hgb – “hemoglobins.” These are a main component of RBCs and contain iron, which allow them to bond to oxygen. Its an indication of how healthy your RBCs are.
- Hct – “hematocrit.” This is the percentage of your blood that is made up of RBCs.
- MCV – “mean corpuscular volume.” This is the average size of your RBCs.
- MCH – “mean corpuscular hemoglobin.” This is the average weight of hemoglobin in each RBC.
- MCHC – “mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration.” This is the average weight of hemoglobin in a certain amount of blood.
- RDW – “red cell distribution width.” This is the degree of size difference in your RBCs. If the number is low, all of your RBCs are close to the same size and if its high, there’s a big size difference between your largest and smallest RBCs.
- Platelet Count – This is the total number of platelets in your sample. Platelets help your blood to clot to prevent and stop bleeding.
What if one or more of my results are outside of the standard ranges listed?
Results outside of the standard reference ranges do not automatically mean they are a result of a serious condition. Many times your results could be influenced by dehydration, pregnancy, age, and your individual hormone levels. This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
What is a CMP panel?
A comprehensive metabolic panel is a standard blood test that allows Dr. Lacy to evaluate your metabolism, glucose, fluid balance, electrolytes, and the health of your liver and kidneys. Its often used as part of a routine health checkup, to monitor conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, and to check for side effects from certain medications.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a CMP panel?
No. A regular CMP panel is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would. It is helpful to be well hydrated!
When and where can I find my CMP results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What do all of the names & abbreviations on my lab results stand for?
The 16 tests in a CMP can be grouped into four main categories: kidney function, liver function, fluids & electrolytes, and proteins & energy.
Kidney function:
- “BUN” – “blood urea nitrogen.” This is a waste product filtered out of the blood by the kidneys. A low number could indicate that you are not getting enough protein.
- “Creatinine” – a muscle waste product that is filtered out by the kidneys.
- “eGFR by Creatinine” – “estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate.” This estimates how effectively your kidneys filter waste, and is calculated using your creatinine level, age, and sex.
Liver function:
- “ALT” – “Alanine Aminotransferase.” A type of liver enzyme. A high number could indicate that your liver is stressed, inflamed, or damaged.
- “AST” – “Aspartate Aminotransferase.” A type of enzyme found mostly in the liver, but also in the heart, muscles, and kidneys. A high number could indicate a liver issue or muscle damage.
- “Alkaline Phosphatase” – a type of enzyme primarily produced by your liver and bones. A high number could indicate liver damage or bone disease, although an elevated level is normal in pregnancy. A low number could indicate a vitamin D deficiency or malnutrition.
- “Bilirubin” – a waste product from the breakdown of red blood cells. A high number could indicate liver dysfunction and is often accompanied by a jaundiced appearance.
Fluids & electrolytes:
- “Sodium” – helps maintain fluid balance and supports nerve and muscle function. A high level, known as hypernatremia, means that your blood doesn’t have enough water relative to the amount of sodium. Most people assume a high number is caused by eating too much salt, when in reality it mostly stems from dehydration!
- “Potassium” – a mineral essential for regular heart rate, nerve signals, and muscle contraction. A high number could indicate kidney failure, since its the kidney’s job to filter and remove excess potassium.
- “Chloride” – helps regulate fluid and acid-base balances. A high number indicates that there is too much chloride or too little fluid in your bloodstream and commonly occurs from dehydration, consuming excessive amounts of table salt, or frequently drinking electrolyte solutions.
- “CO2” – “carbon dioxide.” Regulates your body’s acid-base balance. A higher number could indicate dehydration, kidney disfunction, or chronic lung diseases like asthma or COPD.
Proteins & energy:
- “Glucose” – the primary type of sugar used for energy. A higher number could indicate that your body is struggling to process or regulate sugar properly, and is one tool that aids in diagnosing diabetes.
- “Calcium” – a mineral essential for bone, muscle, and heart health.
- “Albumin” – a major protein produced by the liver the keeps fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and transports hormones, vitamins, and enzymes. A high number typically indicates dehydration.
- “Protein” – measures the total amount of albumin and globulins* in your blood. A high number could indicate dehydration or something more serious. If your total protein levels are high enough, more tests may need to be ordered to determine the cause.
- “A/G Ratio” – “albumin / globulin ratio.” This measures the balance of two key proteins in your blood. A higher ratio could indicate dehydration, that your immune system is underproducing antibodies, or in rare cases, a blood disorder.
*Globulins help your immune system fight infections and regulate inflammation.
What if one or more of my results are outside of the standard ranges listed?
Results outside of the standard reference ranges do not automatically mean they are a result of a serious condition. Many times your results could be influenced by dehydration, pregnancy, age, and your individual hormone levels. This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
heart and metabolic health
These blood tests can play a critical role in preventing and catching issues like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and what’s known as Metabolic Syndrome in their early stages. They also help monitor and manage chronic conditions and overall wellness. Although the recommended frequency of these tests can vary depending on factors such as your age, existing health conditions, family history, etc, as a general guideline adults should have routine blood work done at their annual exam.
what can heart and metabolic health tests check for?
Lipid Panel*
What is a lipid panel?
A lipid panel is a common blood test that measures lipids (fat molecules) in your blood and is used to monitor and screen for your risk of cardiovascular disease. It consists of measuring the different cholesterols and triglycerides.
Regular testing is common if you have one or more risk factors for cardiovascular disease, which include:
- being a woman over 50 years old or a man over 45 years old
- being obese
- not getting enough physical activity
- smoking tobacco products
- having high blood pressure
- having diabetes or prediabetes
- being previously diagnosed with high cholesterol
- having a biological parent or sibling with heart disease
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a lipid panel?
Not necessarily. If you are doing a fasting lipid panel, you’ll need to have stopped consuming food and drinks (with the exception of water) for at least 9 hours prior to your blood draw. Fasting labs are typically required when trying to diagnose and/or manage diabetes. If you are not specifically doing a fasting lab, however, you can eat, drink, and take medications as you normally would. Be sure to double check your appointment type!
When and where can I find my lipid results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What do all of the names & abbreviations on my lab results stand for?
- Triglycerides – a common kind of fat that we both ingest from the food we eat and make from extra calories, alcohol, and sugar that are then stored for later use. High triglyceride levels increase your risk of heart and vascular diseases, as well as pancreatitis.
- Cholesterol – A fatty but waxy substance made from your liver that your body uses to build cell walls and help your nervous system. It also plays an important role in digestion and hormone production.
- Total Cholesterol – your HDL and LDL cholesterols combined
- Total Cholesterol / HDL Ratio – the proportion of your total cholesterol to your HDL cholesterol.
- HDL Cholesterol – “high-density lipoprotein.” This is the “good” cholesterol that helps pick up extra cholesterol in your body and deliver it to your liver, where it can break down and exit your body through your bowels.
- LDL Cholesterol – “low-density lipoprotein.” This is the “bad” cholesterol, although its not inherently bad. Too much of LDL cholesterol contributes to plaque buildup in your arteries, which can lead to heart disease and other serious conditions.
- LDL / HDL Ratio – the proportion of your “bad” cholesterol to your “good” cholesterol.
- Non-HDL Cholesterol – this is all forms of cholesterol except for HDL cholesterol. It includes LDL cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol (very low-density lipoprotein), and other particles known to cause plaque buildup.
What if one or more of my results are outside of the standard ranges listed?
Abnormal results do not necessarily mean you have a medical condition or need special treatment. A healthy cholesterol range for YOU can depend on many factors, including your age, medical history, and current medications. This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
Insulin*
What is insulin?
Insulin is an essential hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar and helps your body turn food into energy. An insulin blood test measures the amount of insulin in your blood and is primarily used to diagnose insulin resistance and diabetes.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for an insulin test?
Yes, an insulin blood test is a fasting lab. Fasting helps to provide an accurate baseline of how much insulin your body produces. You cannot consume anything besides water for at least 8 hours prior to your blood draw and it is advisable to avoid vigorous physical activity and alcohol for 24 hours prior to your appointment. Because of this, its typically better to schedule your insulin test as early in the morning as possible.
When and where can I find my insulin test results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if my result is outside of the standard range listed?
Its hard to draw any conclusions from an insulin test alone. Insulin and glucose must be evaluated together to understand your metabolic health, and often times other test results need to be included as well (such as your A1C when determining if a patient is prediabetic or diabetic.) This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If a follow up appointment or medication is needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will help with that when going over your results.
Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c)
What is hemoglobin A1c?
Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body. The glucose (sugar) in your blood sticks to hemoglobin, and the more glucose is in your blood, the more it sticks. It can stay there for around three months, which is the average life span of a red blood cell. The A1c test measure the average amount of glucose that has been attached to hemoglobin over time, so it provides more information about blood sugar than a single glucose test.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for an insulin test?
No. An HbA1c test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would. It is helpful to be well hydrated!
When and where can I find my insulin test results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What does my result mean?
The HbA1c test result is reported as a percentage, and the higher the percentage, the higher your blood sugar levels have been over the last three months. For diagnosing purposes, there are three reference ranges:
- Less than 5.7% means you do not have diabetes.
- 5.7% – 6.4% means you are prediabetic, which means your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not enough to officially be diabetes. It’s primarily caused by insulin resistance and is reversible.
- 6.5% or higher usually indicates you have diabetes. However, other conditions like anemia, sickness, and certain medications can cause a higher A1c. Additional tests may be needed to reach an official diagnosis.
As always, its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If a follow up appointment or medication is needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will help with that when going over your results.
Estimated Average Glucose (eAG)
What is an Estimated Average Glucose test?
An eAG test is a calculation that translates your A1c percentage into the same measurement units used by daily glucose monitors. Unlike those monitors, however, it provides a more complete picture of your blood sugar over a 60 – 90 day period. Home meters only measure blood sugar at specific, individual moments and can miss peak spikes.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for an eAG test?
No. An eAG test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would. It is helpful to be well hydrated!
When and where can I find my eAG test results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What does my result mean?
The normal range for non-diabetics is 70 – 126mg/dL, which corresponds to an A1c of around 4% – 6%.
As always, its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports. If a follow up appointment or medication is needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will help with that when going over your results.
*You may need to fast before these tests.
hormones
Hormone panels are one of, if not the most common, blood tests done at MORE 901. Hormonal imbalances for any reason can cause confusion, irritation, and life disruptions. There is no recommended routine testing, but if you are experiencing any unusual or distressing symptoms then its a good idea to get your levels checked!
what hormone levels are typically tested?
Estradiol
What is estradiol?
Estradiol is the most prominent, naturally occurring estrogen produced by the human body. As the primary female sex hormone, it is responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle and pushing the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system and secondary sexual characteristics. It also helps maintain bone density and influences cardiovascular health, skin elasticity, and brain functions like mood and memory.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for an estradiol test?
No. An estradiol test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would. It is helpful to be well hydrated!
When and where can I find my estradiol results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if one or more of my results are outside of the standard ranges listed?
Abnormal results do not necessarily mean you have a medical condition or need special treatment. As you’ll see in the report, there are different ranges depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle, if you’re pregnant, etc. Checking for hormonal imbalances, like in the case of perimenopause or menopause, also involves checking all of the hormones together as well as separately. Its important that you don’t try to self diagnose! This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
Testosterone
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and plays an essential role in building muscle mass, maintaining bone density, regulating the libido, and supporting overall mood and energy for everyone, not just men.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a testosterone test?
No. A testosterone test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would. It is helpful to be well hydrated!
When and where can I find my testosterone results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if one or more of my results are outside of the standard ranges listed?
Abnormal results do not necessarily mean you have a medical condition or need special treatment. Checking for hormonal imbalances, like in the case of perimenopause or menopause, also involves checking all of the hormones together as well as separately. Its important that you don’t try to self diagnose! This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
What is follicle-stimulating hormone?
Despite its name, follicle-stimulating hormone (or FSH) doesn’t directly affect your hair follicles or hair growth! It got its name due to its effect on ovarian follicles. FSH is made by the pituitary gland and plays a vital role in sexual development and reproduction. In women, it aids in the menstrual cycle by helping to mature ovarian follicles, which in turn produce estrogen. In men, it aids in the production of sperm.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a follicle-stimulating hormone test?
No. A FSH test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would. It is helpful to be well hydrated!
When and where can I find my follicle-stimulating hormone results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if one or more of my results are outside of the standard ranges listed?
Abnormal results do not necessarily mean you have a medical condition or need special treatment. While a higher FSH level can indicate menopause, checking for hormonal imbalances involves checking all of the hormones together as well as separately. Its imperative that you don’t try to self diagnose! This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
specialized panels
These blood tests are ones not ordered regularly, but are common amongst patients who might have something a little more specific to investigate such as fertility levels or thyroid function.
what can specialized panels check for?
Thyroid (TSH reflex to FT4)
What is the thyroid & what does the test do?
The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that produces hormones that helps regulate your metabolism and control vital functions such as your heart rate, breathing, and body temperature. The thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is a pituitary hormone that tells your thyroid how much thyroxine (the major type of hormone released by the thyroid, known as T4) to make.
The test for thyroid function is most commonly called a TSH reflex to FT4. It first measures the TSH, and if that falls outside of the normal range then our lab automatically tests the “Free” T4 (the kind that enters your body’s tissues where it’s needed) to further evaluate how your thyroid is functioning.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a thyroid test?
Not necessarily. A thyroid test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take most medications as you normally would. However, Biotin can cause thyroid tests to appear abnormal when they are not. It’s recommended to stop all biotin-containing supplements three to five days before the test.
When and where can I find my thyroid test results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if my results are outside of the reference range listed?
Abnormally high or low levels do not necessarily mean you have a medical condition or need special treatment. Abnormal levels could stem from conditions like hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, pregnancy, certain medications, or malnourishment. Its imperative that you don’t try to self diagnose! This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
Vitamin D
Why would I need to test my Vitamin D level?
Vitamin D deficiency is a common problem around the world. Our bodies need it so it can use calcium and phosphorus to build and maintain bones while also supporting healthy tissues.
Routine screening is not generally recommended for everyone. However, testing should be done if you:
- show signs of deficiency, such as chronic fatigue, muscle cramps or weakness, mood changes, or bone/joint pain.
- are high risk due to limited sun exposure, dark skin, obesity, or have a malabsorptive condition like gastric bypass or celiac disease.
- are consuming multiple vitamin d supplements.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a Vitamin D test?
No. A Vitamin D test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take you medications as you normally would.
When and where can I find my Vitamin D test results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if my result is outside of the reference range listed?
Low Vitamin D is easily treatable with more sun exposure (but wear your sunscreen!), eating and drinking more Vitamin D rich foods like dairy products and fatty fish, and/or taking a supplement. You can’t get too much Vitamin D from sun exposure, but you CAN get too much from taking too many supplements. This is one reason why it’s imperative that you don’t try to self diagnose! It’s important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
Anti Mullerian hormone
What is anti mullerian hormone (AMH)?
Anti mullerian hormone (AMH) plays a vital role in developing a fetus’s sex organs while in utero. For adults though, an AMH test is primarily used to measure the amount of eggs remaining in your ovaries. Its primarily used to aid in evaluating fertility, predicting the onset of menopause, and in diagnosing conditions like Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome, better known as PMOS (formerly PCOS.)
Its important to note that the test measures the quantity of eggs, not the quality. It does not provide any guarantees about your ability to naturally conceive, nor will it tell you when exactly you will enter menopause. Its merely a tool used in conjuncture with other tests to help in those areas.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for an AMH test?
No. An AMH test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take you medications as you normally would.
When and where can I find my AMH test results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if my result is outside of the reference range listed?
AMH levels vary depending on age. They typically rise during adolescence and peak around age 25, and then naturally decline over time. A low or severely low level could indicate a low chance of getting pregnant or the onset of menopause. A high level could indicate a condition such as PMOS. However, it’s important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
Prolactin
What is prolactin and why would I need to test my levels?
Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland whose main function is to stimulate breast development and milk production, along with supporting reproductive function, metabolism, and immune regulation. At MORE 901, a prolactin test is primarily done when investigating fertility issues or irregular menstrual cycles.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a prolactin test?
Not necessarily. Prolactin levels can fluctuate throughout the day and can spike due to stress, exercise, or nipple stimulation. Its best to schedule your blood draw in the morning, when levels are highest and most stable. You should avoid strenuous exercise, stress, and sexual activity for at least 24 to 48 hours prior to the test.
A prolactin test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take you medications as you normally would.
When and where can I find my prolactin test results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if my result is outside of the reference range listed?
Abnormally high levels do not necessarily mean you have a medical condition or need special treatment, but it may need to be further tested as it could be indicative of hypothyroidism, kidney or liver disease, and certain medications. As always, it’s important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
What other sexually transmitted infections or diseases can be tested?
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
What is Human Immunodeficiency Virus?
Most commonly referred to as HIV, human immunodeficiency virus is exactly what it sounds like- a virus that targets white blood cells, weakening the body’s immune system. It is often closely associated with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, but that can be misleading. Having HIV does not mean that you automatically have AIDS, but if left untreated it can lead to that (what’s known as Stage 3, the most severe stage of HIV infection.) Here at MORE 901, we test for HIV with a simple blood draw.
It also makes you much more susceptible to getting sick with other diseases, infections, and some cancers. There is no cure, but with proper medical care and treatment people who are HIV+ can live long, healthy lives while also protecting their partners.
HIV is spread through bodily fluids, including blood, semen, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, as well as sharing needles or other medical or drug paraphernalia that pierce the skin. It is not spread through saliva or unbroken skin-to-skin contact.
The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested. Current guidelines suggest everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 should get tested at least once in their lifetime, but anyone with a higher risk factor should be tested regularly.
Systemic health and socioeconomic disparities have led to higher infection rates among Black and Hispanic communities. Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men are also more at risk. Lastly, people who inject drugs are more susceptible to contracting HIV by sharing needles and syringes.
What are the symptoms of Human Immunodeficiency Virus?
Symptoms of HIV can vary depending on the stage of infection. Some people may not ever present symptoms at all. Most people, however, have flu-like symptoms within two to four weeks after first being infected. Because these symptoms can often be confused with other issues, HIV spreads more easily in the first few months after a person is infected because many are unaware of their status.
In the first stage of infection, the most common symptoms are:
- fever
- headache
- sore throat
- chills
- fatigue
- muscle aches
- sometimes a rash
In addition to the ones above, the most common symptoms in the second stage of infection are:
- swollen lymph nodes
- diarrhea
- cough
- weightloss
If HIV is undetected for too long, or is not treated, serious illnesses can develop, such as tuberculosis (TB), cryptococcal meningitis, and some cancers, including lymphomas and sarcomas.
What if I test positive for Human Immunodeficiency Virus?
If you are positive for HIV, your lab results will read “Reactive” in the patient portal. For negative, it will read “Nonreactive.” However, if you receive a negative result but know that you have been exposed, its recommended to get a second test done after 28 days to confirm.
Its understandable that getting a positive result can be scary, but even though there is no cure, advances in modern medicine have significantly improved the outcome of people living with HIV. Treatment for HIV, called antiretroviral therapy or ART, involves taking daily medication to stop the virus from replicating in the body. This allows your immune system to get stronger and lower the amount of the virus in your blood. Once the medication suppresses the virus enough, you can have what’s called an “undetectable load.” If that happens, you will not transmit HIV to others through sex. It also reduces the risk of transmission through sharing drug injection equipment and during pregnancy, labor, and delivery.
Waiting too long to get tested and/or start treatment lowers the chances of ART working, which is why regular testing for at-risk individuals is so important!
How can I protect myself from contracting Human Immunodeficiency Virus?
HIV is a completely preventable disease. There are more ways than ever to assist in preventing contracting the infection, including:
- using condoms the correct way every time you engage in sexual activity
- never sharing needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment
- getting regular HIV and STI testing, especially if you are high risk or have multiple partners
- engaging in open conversations about your status with any sexual partners
- taking PrEP
PrEP, which stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis, are prescription medications that help prevent HIV infections in people who are HIV negative but are at high risk for being exposed to it. It only prevents against HIV, not other STIs or pregnancy, so barrier methods should still be used during sex. You also must get an HIV test every 3 months to confirm your status and maintain your prescription. If you’re interested in possibly getting on PrEP, don’t wait to book your appointment!
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
What is Herpes Simplex Virus?
Also known as HSV, or simply “herpes” for many, herpes simplex virus is a highly contagious viral infection that causes fluid filled blisters and sores on or in different parts of the body. There are two primary types, HSV-1 (typically associated with oral herpes) and HSV-2 (typically associated with genital herpes.)
HSV spreads through skin-to-skin contact, including oral, genital, and anal contact, when the virus enters your body through your skin and mucous membranes and uses your cells to replicate. It can spread even if you aren’t having an outbreak. Its important to understand that BOTH HSV-1 and HSV-2 can transmitted to either area, oral or genital. So if a partner has HSV-1 (oral herpes) and they perform oral sex on you, you can get HSV-2 (genital herpes) from them, and vice versa.
There is no cure for any type of HSV, and once you contract any variation of the virus you have it for life, but oftentimes most people are asymptomatic and antiviral medications can be prescribed to manage outbreaks, reduce the time it takes an outbreak to heal, and reduce the risk of transmitting the infection to others.
What are the symptoms of Herpes Simplex Virus?
The incubation period for HSV ranges from one to 26 days, but symptoms typically develop between six to eight days after first getting the virus. This is called the “primary infection.” It travels to nearby nerve cells, begins replicating, and your immune system then recognizes an intruder and sends out immune cells. This leads to inflammation and the forming of blisters on your skin. Other symptoms might include:
- A tingling, itching, or burning sensation on your lips and/or around your mouth (HSV-1)
- Swollen lymph nodes (HSV-1)
- An itching or tingling sensation in your genital area (HSV-2)
- Fever
- Headache
Some people get infected and don’t develop symptoms right away. It could take months or years, in rare cases, for the virus to activate. Triggers that could cause a symptom outbreak include:
- Fever
- Stress
- Weakened immune system
- Hormonal changes (such as your monthly menstruation cycle)
Additionally, potential triggers specific to HSV-1 include:
- Sun exposure
- Upper respiratory infection
- Trauma to your mouth area
Due to its highly contagious nature and the possibility of being asymptomatic, regular testing is imperative to know your HSV status.
What if I test positive for Herpes Simplex Virus?
If you are positive for HSV, your lab results will read “Reactive” in the patient portal, and “Nonreactive” if you are negative. Living with HSV doesn’t mean your regular or sexual life has to change drastically, though! While there is no cure, there are medications to help reduce outbreaks and the threat of transmission.
Based on the type of HSV you have, its severity, and how strong your immune system is, daily antiviral medication can be taken orally, topically, or intravenously. The most common option are oral medications.
Episodic treatment is short-term treatment that targets an outbreak. The sooner you take it, the better it works to make symptoms less severe, help pain go away faster, help sores heal faster, and lower the amount of virus that sheds from your skin.
Chronic suppressive treatment is the taking of antiviral medications long term. We recommend this option most for patients who test positive for HSV-2 (genital herpes) as well as for people who experience frequent or severe outbreaks (typically at least six outbreaks a year), are immunocompromised, and/or have one or more sexual partners who do not have HSV.
Most people with herpes simplex virus have fewer outbreaks as they get older, particularly after age 35.
How can I protect myself from contracting Herpes Simplex Virus?
Because of how prevalent HSV is, it can be hard to prevent. However, doing these things can reduce your risk of contracting the virus:
- Use barrier methods, such as condoms and dental dams, for ALL sexual activities. They won’t protect you 100% but they do offer some protection and they help reduce your risk of contracting STIs.
- Avoid close contact with people who are having an HSV outbreak. This includes not kidding someone with a cold sore and avoiding sexual activity with someone who has genital sores.
- Ask your partners to get tested for HSV, especially since you can contract herpes from someone who is asymptomatic.
Syphilis (RPR)
What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a bacterial STI caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. Its sometimes referred to as “the great imitator” because its symptoms often mimic other diseases.
It is treatable with antibiotics, but how much you need and how long you take it depends on the stage of the infection and your symptoms. Left untreated, it can lead to serious problems involving your brain, heart, eyes, and nervous system.
This STI is most contagious in the early stages and during pregnancy, and you can pass the infection to the fetus, which is known as congenital syphilis. This is very serious as it can cause severe health problems in babies, including death. These are just two reasons why getting checked early is so important!
Although Syphilis is not as common as other STIs, it still should be taken seriously. Anyone can contract Syphilis, but you are more at risk if you:
- are a man who has sex with men
- have unprotected sex, especially with more than one partner
- have HIV
- have tested positive for other STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or herpes
What are the stages and symptoms of Syphilis?
Syphilis progresses through four distinct stages. It causes different symptoms in each stage, and is more contagious in the first and second stages.
The first stage is known as primary syphilis. It typically starts anywhere from three to 90 days after exposure and manifests with one or more firm, round, and usually painless sores called chancres at the site of infection (generally your genitals or mouth.) In fact, you may not even be aware of the sore(s) at first or might dismiss them as a pimple or regular skin lesion. The sore(s) will go away on their own in a few weeks or months, but this does NOT mean the infection is gone. It can still be passed to others through vaginal, anal, and/or oral sex and if left untreated, it progresses to the second stage.
The second stage is called secondary syphilis. It occurs about one to six months after the sore goes away, replaced by a rough and bumpy rash that can cover your whole body, including your palms and the soles of your feet. The rash is not typically itchy, but you may have other symptoms like:
- swollen lymph nodes
- fatigue
- fever
- muscle aches
- headache
- weight and/or hair loss
- wart-like sores
These symptoms can go on for months or even years. Again, syphilis is still present in your body even if the rash and other symptoms are gone and it can still be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Left untreated, the infection will move to the third stage, known as latent syphilis.
During latent syphilis, there aren’t typically any outward signs or symptoms of the infection, although occasionally some people may experience mild flare-ups. It’s rare to pass syphilis to any sexual partners during this stage. However, latent syphilis can last up to 20 years and can damage your heart, nerves, organs, and bones. Left untreated, the infection can move on to the final stage.
The last stage is known as late or tertiary syphilis. For many people, symptoms don’t progress to this stage even when the infection does. Only about 20% of people progress to late syphilis, but those who do suffer from serious health problems, such as:
- vision problems, including blindness
- movement disorders and muscle problems
- nerve damage
- seizures
- heart disease
- dementia and cognitive health problems
- brain damage
What if I test positive for Syphilis?
For our syphilis test here at More 901, your results in the patient portal will read as “Reactive” if you are positive. While the report won’t tell us specifically what stage you are in, we can get a good approximation based on your sexual history and how long you end up on antibiotics. After a round of antibiotics its important to come back so we can retest you to make sure the infection is gone.
It’s important to refrain from all sexual activity until you test negative to avoid passing the infection to other people, and you should contact anyone you’ve had sex with within the last two years to let them know they should get tested.
You can get syphilis more than once, so be sure to practice safe sex and get tested regularly if you are at a higher risk.
Remember, syphilis is curable but any effects on your heart, brain, eyes, or other organs are not, so the sooner you start treatment the better your prognosis will be!
How can I protect myself from contracting Syphilis?
As with almost all STIs, the only 100% way to be sure you won’t contract syphilis is abstinence. However, its easy to reduce your risk by always using contraceptive barrier methods, such as condoms and dental dams, and making sure you are using them properly. Ask everyone you have sexual encounters with about their history and if they’ve been tested, and be sure to get regular testing if you are high risk.
additional STI & STD Tests
STI and STD screening recommendations vary by age, gender assigned at birth, and individual risk factors. Routine testing is typically focused on sexually active people, pregnant women, and those who are known to be higher risk. At MORE 901, the STI/STD blood tests most commonly performed are for HIV, herpes, and syphilis.
In general, you should get tested for HIV if you are considered high risk or know that you have been exposed. HSV has similar guidelines, with no recommended schedule for routine testing and testing only suggested if you have active symptoms and/or know that you have been exposed. For syphilis, testing is recommended once a year if you are sexually active and once every three to six months if you have multiple partners or are a man who has sex with men.
essential wellness panels
These blood tests are helpful in assessing your baseline health, and also can help identify early signs of common conditions. For healthy adults under 40 without any symptoms or previously diagnosed chronic conditions, these panels are typically only done about every three years. For adults over 40 years of age, they should be done yearly at your annual exam.
what can an essential wellness panel include?
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
What is a CBC panel?
A complete blood count is a standard lab test that allows Dr. Lacy to evaluate your overall health and detect infections and other disorders by looking at different components of your blood. It measures the three main types of cells in your blood- red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets- as well as hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Reference ranges can vary slightly depending on the lab, your age, your hormone status, and various health conditions, which is why a member of the MORE 901 team will call to go over your results with you after they are reviewed by Dr. Lacy.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a CBC panel?
No. A CBC panel is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would. It is helpful to be well hydrated!
When and where can I find my CBC results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What do all of the names & abbreviations on my lab results stand for?
- WBC – “white blood cells.” These fight infections and diseases.
- RBC – “red blood cells.” These carry oxygen throughout your body.
- Hb or Hgb – “hemoglobins.” These are a main component of RBCs and contain iron, which allow them to bond to oxygen. Its an indication of how healthy your RBCs are.
- Hct – “hematocrit.” This is the percentage of your blood that is made up of RBCs.
- MCV – “mean corpuscular volume.” This is the average size of your RBCs.
- MCH – “mean corpuscular hemoglobin.” This is the average weight of hemoglobin in each RBC.
- MCHC – “mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration.” This is the average weight of hemoglobin in a certain amount of blood.
- RDW – “red cell distribution width.” This is the degree of size difference in your RBCs. If the number is low, all of your RBCs are close to the same size and if its high, there’s a big size difference between your largest and smallest RBCs.
- Platelet Count – This is the total number of platelets in your sample. Platelets help your blood to clot to prevent and stop bleeding.
What if one or more of my results are outside of the standard ranges listed?
Results outside of the standard reference ranges do not automatically mean they are a result of a serious condition. Many times your results could be influenced by dehydration, pregnancy, age, and your individual hormone levels. This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
What is a CMP panel?
A comprehensive metabolic panel is a standard blood test that allows Dr. Lacy to evaluate your metabolism, glucose, fluid balance, electrolytes, and the health of your liver and kidneys. Its often used as part of a routine health checkup, to monitor conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, and to check for side effects from certain medications.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a CMP panel?
No. A regular CMP panel is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would. It is helpful to be well hydrated!
When and where can I find my CMP results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What do all of the names & abbreviations on my lab results stand for?
The 16 tests in a CMP can be grouped into four main categories: kidney function, liver function, fluids & electrolytes, and proteins & energy.
Kidney function:
- “BUN” – “blood urea nitrogen.” This is a waste product filtered out of the blood by the kidneys. A low number could indicate that you are not getting enough protein.
- “Creatinine” – a muscle waste product that is filtered out by the kidneys.
- “eGFR by Creatinine” – “estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate.” This estimates how effectively your kidneys filter waste, and is calculated using your creatinine level, age, and sex.
Liver function:
- “ALT” – “Alanine Aminotransferase.” A type of liver enzyme. A high number could indicate that your liver is stressed, inflamed, or damaged.
- “AST” – “Aspartate Aminotransferase.” A type of enzyme found mostly in the liver, but also in the heart, muscles, and kidneys. A high number could indicate a liver issue or muscle damage.
- “Alkaline Phosphatase” – a type of enzyme primarily produced by your liver and bones. A high number could indicate liver damage or bone disease, although an elevated level is normal in pregnancy. A low number could indicate a vitamin D deficiency or malnutrition.
- “Bilirubin” – a waste product from the breakdown of red blood cells. A high number could indicate liver dysfunction and is often accompanied by a jaundiced appearance.
Fluids & electrolytes:
- “Sodium” – helps maintain fluid balance and supports nerve and muscle function. A high level, known as hypernatremia, means that your blood doesn’t have enough water relative to the amount of sodium. Most people assume a high number is caused by eating too much salt, when in reality it mostly stems from dehydration!
- “Potassium” – a mineral essential for regular heart rate, nerve signals, and muscle contraction. A high number could indicate kidney failure, since its the kidney’s job to filter and remove excess potassium.
- “Chloride” – helps regulate fluid and acid-base balances. A high number indicates that there is too much chloride or too little fluid in your bloodstream and commonly occurs from dehydration, consuming excessive amounts of table salt, or frequently drinking electrolyte solutions.
- “CO2” – “carbon dioxide.” Regulates your body’s acid-base balance. A higher number could indicate dehydration, kidney disfunction, or chronic lung diseases like asthma or COPD.
Proteins & energy:
- “Glucose” – the primary type of sugar used for energy. A higher number could indicate that your body is struggling to process or regulate sugar properly, and is one tool that aids in diagnosing diabetes.
- “Calcium” – a mineral essential for bone, muscle, and heart health.
- “Albumin” – a major protein produced by the liver the keeps fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and transports hormones, vitamins, and enzymes. A high number typically indicates dehydration.
- “Protein” – measures the total amount of albumin and globulins* in your blood. A high number could indicate dehydration or something more serious. If your total protein levels are high enough, more tests may need to be ordered to determine the cause.
- “A/G Ratio” – “albumin / globulin ratio.” This measures the balance of two key proteins in your blood. A higher ratio could indicate dehydration, that your immune system is underproducing antibodies, or in rare cases, a blood disorder.
*Globulins help your immune system fight infections and regulate inflammation.
What if one or more of my results are outside of the standard ranges listed?
Results outside of the standard reference ranges do not automatically mean they are a result of a serious condition. Many times your results could be influenced by dehydration, pregnancy, age, and your individual hormone levels. This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
what can heart and metabolic health tests check for?
Lipid Panel*
What is a lipid panel?
A lipid panel is a common blood test that measures lipids (fat molecules) in your blood and is used to monitor and screen for your risk of cardiovascular disease. It consists of measuring the different cholesterols and triglycerides.
Regular testing is common if you have one or more risk factors for cardiovascular disease, which include:
- being a woman over 50 years old or a man over 45 years old
- being obese
- not getting enough physical activity
- smoking tobacco products
- having high blood pressure
- having diabetes or prediabetes
- being previously diagnosed with high cholesterol
- having a biological parent or sibling with heart disease
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a lipid panel?
Not necessarily. If you are doing a fasting lipid panel, you’ll need to have stopped consuming food and drinks (with the exception of water) for at least 9 hours prior to your blood draw. Fasting labs are typically required when trying to diagnose and/or manage diabetes. If you are not specifically doing a fasting lab, however, you can eat, drink, and take medications as you normally would. Be sure to double check your appointment type!
When and where can I find my lipid results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What do all of the names & abbreviations on my lab results stand for?
- Triglycerides – a common kind of fat that we both ingest from the food we eat and make from extra calories, alcohol, and sugar that are then stored for later use. High triglyceride levels increase your risk of heart and vascular diseases, as well as pancreatitis.
- Cholesterol – A fatty but waxy substance made from your liver that your body uses to build cell walls and help your nervous system. It also plays an important role in digestion and hormone production.
- Total Cholesterol – your HDL and LDL cholesterols combined
- Total Cholesterol / HDL Ratio – the proportion of your total cholesterol to your HDL cholesterol.
- HDL Cholesterol – “high-density lipoprotein.” This is the “good” cholesterol that helps pick up extra cholesterol in your body and deliver it to your liver, where it can break down and exit your body through your bowels.
- LDL Cholesterol – “low-density lipoprotein.” This is the “bad” cholesterol, although its not inherently bad. Too much of LDL cholesterol contributes to plaque buildup in your arteries, which can lead to heart disease and other serious conditions.
- LDL / HDL Ratio – the proportion of your “bad” cholesterol to your “good” cholesterol.
- Non-HDL Cholesterol – this is all forms of cholesterol except for HDL cholesterol. It includes LDL cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol (very low-density lipoprotein), and other particles known to cause plaque buildup.
What if one or more of my results are outside of the standard ranges listed?
Abnormal results do not necessarily mean you have a medical condition or need special treatment. A healthy cholesterol range for YOU can depend on many factors, including your age, medical history, and current medications. This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
Insulin*
What is insulin?
Insulin is an essential hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar and helps your body turn food into energy. An insulin blood test measures the amount of insulin in your blood and is primarily used to diagnose insulin resistance and diabetes.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for an insulin test?
Yes, an insulin blood test is a fasting lab. Fasting helps to provide an accurate baseline of how much insulin your body produces. You cannot consume anything besides water for at least 8 hours prior to your blood draw and it is advisable to avoid vigorous physical activity and alcohol for 24 hours prior to your appointment. Because of this, its typically better to schedule your insulin test as early in the morning as possible.
When and where can I find my insulin test results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if my result is outside of the standard range listed?
Its hard to draw any conclusions from an insulin test alone. Insulin and glucose must be evaluated together to understand your metabolic health, and often times other test results need to be included as well (such as your A1C when determining if a patient is prediabetic or diabetic.) This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If a follow up appointment or medication is needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will help with that when going over your results.
Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c)
What is hemoglobin A1c?
Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body. The glucose (sugar) in your blood sticks to hemoglobin, and the more glucose is in your blood, the more it sticks. It can stay there for around three months, which is the average life span of a red blood cell. The A1c test measure the average amount of glucose that has been attached to hemoglobin over time, so it provides more information about blood sugar than a single glucose test.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for an insulin test?
No. An HbA1c test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would. It is helpful to be well hydrated!
When and where can I find my insulin test results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What does my result mean?
The HbA1c test result is reported as a percentage, and the higher the percentage, the higher your blood sugar levels have been over the last three months. For diagnosing purposes, there are three reference ranges:
- Less than 5.7% means you do not have diabetes.
- 5.7% – 6.4% means you are prediabetic, which means your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not enough to officially be diabetes. It’s primarily caused by insulin resistance and is reversible.
- 6.5% or higher usually indicates you have diabetes. However, other conditions like anemia, sickness, and certain medications can cause a higher A1c. Additional tests may be needed to reach an official diagnosis.
As always, its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If a follow up appointment or medication is needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will help with that when going over your results.
Estimated Average Glucose (eAG)
What is an Estimated Average Glucose test?
An eAG test is a calculation that translates your A1c percentage into the same measurement units used by daily glucose monitors. Unlike those monitors, however, it provides a more complete picture of your blood sugar over a 60 – 90 day period. Home meters only measure blood sugar at specific, individual moments and can miss peak spikes.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for an eAG test?
No. An eAG test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would. It is helpful to be well hydrated!
When and where can I find my eAG test results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What does my result mean?
The normal range for non-diabetics is 70 – 126mg/dL, which corresponds to an A1c of around 4% – 6%.
As always, its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports. If a follow up appointment or medication is needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will help with that when going over your results.
*You may need to fast before these tests.
heart and metabolic health
These blood tests can play a critical role in preventing and catching issues like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and what’s known as Metabolic Syndrome in their early stages. They also help monitor and manage chronic conditions and overall wellness. Although the recommended frequency of these tests can vary depending on factors such as your age, existing health conditions, family history, etc, as a general guideline adults should have routine blood work done at their annual exam.
hormones
Hormone panels are one of, if not the most common, blood tests done at MORE 901. Hormonal imbalances for any reason can cause confusion, irritation, and life disruptions. There is no recommended routine testing, but if you are experiencing any unusual or distressing symptoms then its a good idea to get your levels checked!
what hormone levels are typically tested?
Estradiol
What is estradiol?
Estradiol is the most prominent, naturally occurring estrogen produced by the human body. As the primary female sex hormone, it is responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle and pushing the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system and secondary sexual characteristics. It also helps maintain bone density and influences cardiovascular health, skin elasticity, and brain functions like mood and memory.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for an estradiol test?
No. An estradiol test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would. It is helpful to be well hydrated!
When and where can I find my estradiol results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if one or more of my results are outside of the standard ranges listed?
Abnormal results do not necessarily mean you have a medical condition or need special treatment. As you’ll see in the report, there are different ranges depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle, if you’re pregnant, etc. Checking for hormonal imbalances, like in the case of perimenopause or menopause, also involves checking all of the hormones together as well as separately. Its imperative that you don’t try to self diagnose! This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
Testosterone
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and plays an essential role in building muscle mass, maintaining bone density, regulating the libido, and supporting overall mood and energy for everyone, not just men.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a testosterone test?
No. A testosterone test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would. It is helpful to be well hydrated!
When and where can I find my testosterone results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if one or more of my results are outside of the standard ranges listed?
Abnormal results do not necessarily mean you have a medical condition or need special treatment. Checking for hormonal imbalances, like in the case of perimenopause or menopause, also involves checking all of the hormones together as well as separately. Its important that you don’t try to self diagnose! This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
What is follicle-stimulating hormone?
Despite its name, follicle-stimulating hormone (or FSH) doesn’t directly affect your hair follicles or hair growth! It got its name due to its effect on ovarian follicles. FSH is made by the pituitary gland and plays a vital role in sexual development and reproduction. In women, it aids in the menstrual cycle by helping to mature ovarian follicles, which in turn produce estrogen. In men, it aids in the production of sperm.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a follicle-stimulating hormone test?
No. A FSH test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would. It is helpful to be well hydrated!
When and where can I find my follicle-stimulating hormone results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if one or more of my results are outside of the standard ranges listed?
Abnormal results do not necessarily mean you have a medical condition or need special treatment. While a higher FSH level can indicate menopause, checking for hormonal imbalances involves checking all of the hormones together as well as separately. Its imperative that you don’t try to self diagnose! This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
what can specialized panels check for?
Thyroid (TSH reflex to FT4)
What is the thyroid & what does the test do?
The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that produces hormones that helps regulate your metabolism and control vital functions such as your heart rate, breathing, and body temperature. The thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is a pituitary hormone that tells your thyroid how much thyroxine (the major type of hormone released by the thyroid, known as T4) to make.
The test for thyroid function is most commonly called a TSH reflex to FT4. It first measures the TSH, and if that falls outside of the normal range then our lab automatically tests the “Free” T4 (the kind that enters your body’s tissues where it’s needed) to further evaluate how your thyroid is functioning.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a thyroid test?
Not necessarily. A thyroid test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take most medications as you normally would. However, Biotin can cause thyroid tests to appear abnormal when they are not. It’s recommended to stop all biotin-containing supplements three to five days before the test.
When and where can I find my thyroid test results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if my results are outside of the reference range listed?
Abnormally high or low levels do not necessarily mean you have a medical condition or need special treatment. Abnormal levels could stem from conditions like hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, pregnancy, certain medications, or malnourishment. Its imperative that you don’t try to self diagnose! This is why its important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
Vitamin D
Why would I need to test my Vitamin D level?
Vitamin D deficiency is a common problem around the world. Our bodies need it so it can use calcium and phosphorus to build and maintain bones while also supporting healthy tissues.
Routine screening is not generally recommended for everyone. However, testing should be done if you:
- show signs of deficiency, such as chronic fatigue, muscle cramps or weakness, mood changes, or bone/joint pain.
- are high risk due to limited sun exposure, dark skin, obesity, or have a malabsorptive condition like gastric bypass or celiac disease.
- are consuming multiple vitamin d supplements.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a Vitamin D test?
No. A Vitamin D test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take you medications as you normally would.
When and where can I find my Vitamin D test results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if my result is outside of the reference range listed?
Low Vitamin D is easily treatable with more sun exposure (but wear your sunscreen!), eating and drinking more Vitamin D rich foods like dairy products and fatty fish, and/or taking a supplement. You can’t get too much Vitamin D from sun exposure, but you CAN get too much from taking too many supplements. This is one reason why it’s imperative that you don’t try to self diagnose! It’s important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
Anti Mullerian hormone
What is anti mullerian hormone (AMH)?
Anti mullerian hormone (AMH) plays a vital role in developing a fetus’s sex organs while in utero. For adults though, an AMH test is primarily used to measure the amount of eggs remaining in your ovaries. Its primarily used to aid in evaluating fertility, predicting the onset of menopause, and in diagnosing conditions like Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome, better known as PMOS (formerly PCOS.)
Its important to note that the test measures the quantity of eggs, not the quality. It does not provide any guarantees about your ability to naturally conceive, nor will it tell you when exactly you will enter menopause. Its merely a tool used in conjuncture with other tests to help in those areas.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for an AMH test?
No. An AMH test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take you medications as you normally would.
When and where can I find my AMH test results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if my result is outside of the reference range listed?
AMH levels vary depending on age. They typically rise during adolescence and peak around age 25, and then naturally decline over time. A low or severely low level could indicate a low chance of getting pregnant or the onset of menopause. A high level could indicate a condition such as PMOS. However, it’s important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
Prolactin
What is prolactin and why would I need to test my levels?
Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland whose main function is to stimulate breast development and milk production, along with supporting reproductive function, metabolism, and immune regulation. At MORE 901, a prolactin test is primarily done when investigating fertility issues or irregular menstrual cycles.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a prolactin test?
Not necessarily. Prolactin levels can fluctuate throughout the day and can spike due to stress, exercise, or nipple stimulation. Its best to schedule your blood draw in the morning, when levels are highest and most stable. You should avoid strenuous exercise, stress, and sexual activity for at least 24 to 48 hours prior to the test.
A prolactin test is not considered a fasting lab, so you can eat, drink, and take you medications as you normally would.
When and where can I find my prolactin test results?
We know that waiting on test results can be anxiety-inducing, and we appreciate our patients immensely for their patience and grace. As a solo practice owner with daily patients, it can take time to give the level of care Dr. Lacy is known and loved for!
It typically takes 3-5 business days to receive the report from the lab, and then it can take Dr. Lacy up to 5 additional business days to review it. Once she has, it is then sent to one of the MORE 901 team members to call you and go over the results.
Your results are also published in your Healow patient portal, a great resource for you to view things before someone reviews it with you. A gentle reminder, however, that only Dr. Lacy has medically trained insight into what the results truly mean. So no googling and diagnosing yourself!
What if my result is outside of the reference range listed?
Abnormally high levels do not necessarily mean you have a medical condition or need special treatment, but it may need to be further tested as it could be indicative of hypothyroidism, kidney or liver disease, and certain medications. As always, it’s important to wait for a call from our office so that everything can be explained after Dr. Lacy reviews the reports.
If any follow up appointments or tests are needed, a member of the MORE 901 team will be happy to get you scheduled!
specialized panels
These blood tests are ones not ordered regularly, but are common amongst patients who might have something a little more specific to investigate such as fertility levels or thyroid function.