fertility specialists and ART

Couples using assisted reproductive technologies (ART) will meet a number of fertility specialists. Here is a list of those experts and their roles.

• reproductive endocrinologist (RE)
• embryologist
• egg donor coordinator
• specialized nurses
• surrogacy coordinator
• fellows

reproductive endocrinologist (re)

A reproductive endocrinologist (RE) is an obstetrician/gynecologist (Ob/Gyn) who has additional specialized training in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. REs generally complete a two- to three-year fellowship program, and are certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties. This specialization is important in the constantly evolving field of infertility, where physicians must be aware of new tests, fertility drugs and procedures. Some REs have subspecialties, such as in reproductive surgery (for fibroids or endometriosis). REs can treat both men and women.

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embryologist

A clinical embryologist is a scientist with an advanced degree in areas such as embryology, biochemistry, microbiology or genetics. The embryologist prepares the sperm and egg for in vitro fertilization (IVF), then ensures that the lab conditions are met for fertilization to occur and the embryo to develop. An embryologist also may be trained in the preservation of embryos (cryopreservation) for future use. There are national certification processes for the staff of an IVF laboratory. When selecting an IVF center, you should inquire into the qualifications of the laboratory staff.

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egg donor coordinator

To find an appropriate donor, a screening coordinator will take and analyze information about a donor’s medical, lifestyle and genetic background, and may help match a donor’s attributes with those sought by the recipient couple. A physician, usually a reproductive endocrinologist (RE), will perform physical exams and blood tests on the donor and the recipient, retrieve eggs from the donor and later transfer the resulting embryos to the recipient. An embryologist will ensure that lab conditions are conducive to embryo development and cryopreservation if applicable. A counselor or psychologist will meet with both the donor and recipient to discuss the relevant issues before proceeding.

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specialized nurses

Often it is a center’s nurses who make the ART process less stressful. A specialized infertility nurse is trained and may be certified in procedures and issues specific to infertility and ART. Duties may include:

• Helping with initial consultations
• Teaching patients to self-administer their medications
• Administering medications
• Conducting limited transvaginal ultrasound scanning (some centers may have their own ultrasonographer or the physicians perform the ultrasounds)
• Performing intrauterine inseminations

Specialized nurses often help teach patients about the ART medications and procedures, and train patients how to give themselves injections. Some also help counsel patients as they go through the ART process.

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surrogacy coordinator

• A screening coordinator will acquire and analyze information from potential surrogates about their medical, lifestyle and genetic history, and perform criminal background checks.
• A social worker, family counselor or psychologist will conduct psychological testing and counsel the couple and the surrogate mother about issues surrounding surrogacy.
• An RE will conduct a physical exam to ensure the potential surrogate is able to carry a child to term.
• An attorney specializing in surrogacy law will draft a contract setting forth the rights and responsibilities of the couple and the surrogate.

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fellows

At an academic center (university/medical school) there may be Reproductive Endocrinology Fellows who have completed all of their Ob/Gyn training and are qualified to be in practice. Instead, they have chosen to subspecialize in Reproductive Endocrinology and may be in their training program. Many fellows under the guidance of the attending physicians assist with the ART programs, do further research into improving methods, etc.

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