Reproductive endocrinology and infertility is a subspecialty of OB/GYN that deals specifically with human reproduction: getting and staying pregnant. There are many disorders that can interfere with this process, causing infertility. Reproductive endocrinologists help their patients conceive and have healthy babies.
Infertility is technically diagnosed if a couple has not had a successful pregnancy after one year of unprotected sex. Patients with known fertility issues may be referred to a reproductive endocrinologist before the one year mark. Infertility is more common than people might think, affecting approximately 15% of both men and women in the United States. Many reproductive endocrinologists provide care for men in their practice, although some refer men's infertility care to associated urologists.
A wide variety of issues can cause fertility problems, from age to hormonal imbalances to structural disorders. Some of the disorders seen and services provided by a reproductive endocrinologist include:
There have been incredible advances in the past few years in treatments for infertility. A reproductive endocrinologist is a highly skilled physician who can help patients toward a successful pregnancy.
