Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Myth: All reproductive endocrinologists are the same.

Busted: From resolve.org: Every reproductive endocrinologist (RE) has his or her own style and it is important that you find one you are comfortable with. As you prepare to seek fertility assistance, take the time to think about what type of doctor relationship you want. You should also think about whether you prefer a male or female doctor. Many fertility centers host open houses so you can meet the doctors before scheduling a consultation.
Some REs also specialize in certain fertility treatments and procedures. Finding a doctor who is best able to meet your clinical needs is another important consideration. Most fertility clinic websites have bios for each doctor, including areas of particular expertise that you can check out.
Take the time to “do your homework” before choosing your doctor.  Forging a healthy relationship of trust and open communication with your fertility specialist is essential and will give you the best possible chance for success.
And one last note: after you have begun to see a fertility specialist, if you feel like he or she isn’t the right fit for you after all, change doctors! Ideally, it would be a specialist in the same practice so the transition will be smooth for you. You should not feel uncomfortable or worry that you will hurt other’s feelings. Your treatment team’s first concern is creating the best possible environment for you to have a baby.

Here's why this myth bothers me so much...I have seen two REs now. My second and current RE is amazing. When we had gone to see the inital RE, we were both excited to start with a specialist and took his words to be true. I knew in my gut that he was not our doctor, but just wanted something to work and so I denied it. He didn't see any concerns with my bloodwork (although my E2 levels were almost triple the normal range), mentioned I might have endometriosis (have never had any symptoms), and said it looked like I had PCOS (I have 28 day cycles in which I do ovulate, and no other symptoms). He sent me to do more bloodwork and scheduled the HSG. On the day of my HSG, after the procedure, I was told I didn't carry the rubella vaccine and that we needed to avoid pregnancy for 3 months after being vaccinated (turns out you only need to wait 4 weeks). This is when I realized he wasn't a right match for us. Why wait 3 weeks to tell me this? Why have me do an HSG if I couldn't try for 3 months after? This is when I had decided I wanted a second opinion. During that time I had asked that RE to return my call about my levels and it took him 5 weeks to return my call! 5 weeks is a lifetime when you are dealing with infertility.
We saw DR. G almost 2 months ago. He re-did all my bloodwork, ruled out PCOS, and told me he didn't see any reasons why I should think I have endometriosis. My E2 levels are the major concern. My body is producing too much estrogen, causing me to ovulate early. My first RE never spoke a word about this! Every time I see Dr. G I feel comfortable. He addressed every concern that I have always felt in my gut, without needing to be asked it.  He gave us a plan that we are comfortable with and I have no doubt that he will get us pregnant.
I will never forget the words my husband spoke as we left his office: "You were right, honey. This is the guy. We have found the right doctor."

http://www.resolve.org/infertility101

 http://www.resolve.org/takecharge

1 comment:

  1. amen!! Listening to your gut is very hard when your dreams are right in front of you!

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