July 17th, 2024 | 5 min. read
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Learn why (and when) to seek the advice of a reproductive endocrinologist, some key things to identify while trying to conceive on your own, and how fertility treatment can help make your family-building dreams a reality.
In this article:
What is a fertility specialist?
Monica Moore:
Hi everyone, I'm Monica Moore, and this edition of Ask Monica is all about when to see a reproductive endocrinologist, also sometimes referred to as an REI or fertility specialist.
A reproductive endocrinologist is a physician who has had regular medical training, followed by four years of residency in OB/GYN (obstetrics and gynecology) plus an additional three years of training in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. This final phase of education focuses on hormones and their effects on the female reproductive system.
Note: Just because someone calls themselves a fertility specialist doesn't necessarily mean they've had these advanced levels of training, or are board certified.
When should I see a fertility specialist?
Many women see their OB/GYN every year. If you are trying to conceive, there are some lower-intervention therapies that your doctor can offer you early on, such as oral fertility medications to help with ovulation with timed intercourse.
For some people, this is all the help they need. These interventions are low tech and your insurance will probably pay to cover them. But when should you move on and seek guidance from an expert in the fertility field?
ASRM's official guidelines are to see a reproductive endocrinologist if:
- You're under age 35 and have been trying to conceive for at least one year.
- You're over age 35 and have been trying for six months or more.
- You're an LGBTQ+ couple, single parent by choice, or someone else who knows they'll need assistance to conceive.
Other reasons to see a fertility specialist:
- You suspect (or know) that you have a condition like PCOS, endometriosis, or blocked fallopian tubes
- Your male partner has known fertility issues
- You're interested in egg, sperm, or embryo freezing
- You have irregular, painful, or absent periods
- You've experienced recurrent pregnancy loss (miscarriage)
If you fall into any of these categories, talk to your OB/GYN and ask which reproductive endocrinologists they recommend - a lot of times, word of mouth is the best option!
What to Expect at a Fertility Clinic
After you've found a fertility clinic you feel comfortable with, they will work with you to confirm any insurance coverage and answer your questions. During your first consultation with a fertility specialist, they will discuss your goals and concerns with you, then provide a multilayered, multifaceted approach based on:
- What your desires are
- What you've done so far
- The age of you (and your partner)
- Your fertility testing results
Our goal is to help you conceive and then send you back to your OB/GYN between 10-13 weeks pregnant. So, we don't keep you forever, but we certainly monitor you very closely, especially if injections are part of your treatment protocol.
We want to make sure that we're not putting you at risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) or other potential issues. We also want to make sure you understand how to use them and what your complete treatment plan is.
Free consultation guide:
Learn how to prepare for your fertility consultation so you can feel more confident taking this big first step on your journey.
What to Do Next
If you've been struggling to conceive on your own or feel unsure about whether you should see a fertility specialist, the best next step is to call your OB/GYN and say, "Hey, I'm hoping to get pregnant within the next year."
They may want to do some initial blood work or get you a transvaginal ultrasound, or they may just recommend you go straight to a great reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialist for a more comprehensive workup and treatment plan.
Most fertility clinics have good, mutually collaborative relationships with local OB/GYNs. We are constantly talking to each other. We're constantly sending information back and forth, collaborating so we can both give you the best care possible, given your specific needs and situation.
I hope that's helpful. Any questions or other concerns, just let us know.
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