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GI-MAP vs GI Effects: how they differ and what they cost

GI-MAP and GI Effects are both at-home stool tests sold by many of the same online sellers. GI-MAP is made by Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory; GI Effects by Genova Diagnostics. Here is how the labs describe each test and what each cost at the sellers we track (checked Oct 19, 2026).

How each lab says its test works

GI-MAP. Diagnostic Solutions describes the GI-MAP as a "DNA qPCR stool analysis" that "quantitatively assesses a patient's microbiome with attention to bacterial, parasitic, and viral pathogens". Its product brief lists the specimen as a "single stool collection shipped ambient". A stool test that uses quantitative PCR (DNA-based) to report on bacterial, viral and parasitic pathogens, commensal ("normal") bacteria, opportunistic bacteria, fungi/yeast and H. pylori, plus stool markers such as calprotectin, pancreatic elastase-1, secretory IgA, anti-gliadin IgA, β-glucuronidase, steatocrit and fecal occult blood, according to seller and lab descriptions. Optional add-ons offered by many sellers include zonulin.

GI Effects. Genova says: "Our combination of PCR, culture, and microscopic testing methods ensures any and all relevant organisms are identified." It groups results into "Digestion/Absorption, Inflammation/Immunology, and the Gut Microbiome". On collection, Genova says that with no or low suspicion "a one-day sample will likely be adequate", and that "for high suspicion, a three-day sample collection is optimal."

These are the labs' own descriptions. We have not reviewed published guidelines or systematic reviews comparing the two tests, and this page is not a recommendation to order either one. Talk with a clinician about whether a stool test fits your situation.

Which costs less?

At the sellers we track, GI-MAP ran $320–$499 and GI Effects $449–$627.75, including any fees the seller lists. The lowest GI-MAP price open to the public was $409 (Labs by Request); for GI Effects it was $489 (Genova Connect (Genova Diagnostics, direct)). Some GI Effects listings are a different configuration (for example three-day collection or add-ons), so check the notes column on the GI Effects price table.

Insurance and HSA/FSA

Genova says that for in-network commercial plans it "will submit claims on your behalf when coverage is indicated", for tests ordered by a healthcare provider. We have not found a published insurance policy for the GI-MAP, so ask the seller or ordering provider. For HSA and FSA accounts, the IRS counts "laboratory fees that are part of medical care" as medical expenses; whether a given test qualifies depends on that and on your plan, so check with your plan administrator.

Compare prices

• GI-MAP: 8 prices, $320–$499
• GI Effects: 8 prices, $449–$627.75

Sources

1. Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory: GI-MAP product brief (PDF) https://www.diagnosticsolutionslab.com/assets/documents/gi-map-product-brief.pdf
2. Genova Diagnostics: GI Effects https://www.gdx.net/products/gi-effects
3. Genova Diagnostics: Billing Options https://gdx.net/billing
4. IRS Publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses (section "Laboratory Fees") https://www.irs.gov/publications/p502

Sources checked 2026-10-19. Prices are from our price tables and update when we re-check sellers.

Informational only, not medical advice. See about & disclaimer.