Choosing A Fertility Specialist Or Clinic

For couples struggling with infertility, selecting the right fertility doctor may make the difference between conceiving a baby or not. The best fertility specialists are experts in their field with successful track records as well the ability to empathize with their patients regarding this emotionally-charged journey. Some of the things to consider when choosing a fertility specialist include his or her training, expertise, track record, and code of ethics.
While some Obstetrician/Gynecologists (OB/GYNs) can treat some forms of infertility, many do not have the necessary training or experience to offer couples the most cutting-edge fertility treatments available. Therefore, consulting with a Reproductive Endocrinologist may be a better option. These physicians have not only completed an OB/GYN residency, but have also received an additional 2-3 years of specialized training in treating infertility. If a Reproductive Endocrinologist has the words "board certified" after his or her name, it signifies that he or she has passed additional written and oral certification exams. In some cases, men experiencing infertility may need to consult with an Andrologist, a doctor specifically trained in male infertility issues.
It is a good idea to confirm whether certain tests and procedures are provided by a specific Reproductive Endocrinologist. Additionally, couples should ask whether the tests and procedures can be carried out in the doctor's office or if they will need to see another specialist.
Whether they are receiving treatment from an individual specialist, a small group practice or a large treatment center, couples should have complete access to their doctor for any questions or concerns that may come up. While 24/7 access to a provider is unrealistic, procedures should be implemented that allow couples to receive a timely response to their inquiries. Also, the couple should inquire about the "on call" policies and emergency procedures (i.e what to do if someone has a negative reaction to a treatment).
When considering a fertility specialist's track record, one number does not tell the whole story; couples need to ask about specific success rates for their fertility condition, for their chosen treatment option, and for other couples their age. Statistics, however, should be only one of several guiding factors in choosing a provider, as data can often overstate the possibility that the couple will be able to take a baby home with them after the treatment.
Couples should also reconcile their own feelings with their endocrinologist's with regards to such topics as age limits for fertility treatment, the number of embryos to be implanted during in-vitro fertilization, and what happens to any embryos that are not implanted. Should the couple find themselves feeling uncomfortable with the doctor's responses to these types of questions, they may wish to switch to a provider who more closely shares their views.

By: Andre Caring

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