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Infertility

OB/GYN and Fertility Specialists

For many of the available treatments and work-ups for infertility, your OB/GYN is the professional to see. However, those couples needing more advanced testing and treatment should work with a fertility specialist, also known as a Reproductive Endocrinologist (RE). A RE is a medical doctor who has been specially trained in the complex issues that can contribute to infertility. In addition to being trained as an OB/GYN, a RE must complete highly specialized training for all aspects of infertility.

Below is the school and training requirements that an OB/GYN and Reproductive Endocrinologist must complete.

four years of medical school
residency program in OB/GYN

Reproductive Endocrinologist

four years of medical school
residency program in OB/GYN

To become board certified in OB/GYN, the following is required:

graduate from college & medical school
complete 4-year residency in OB/GYN
pass written exam in OB/GYN
complete 2-year practice experience
pass oral exam in OB/GYN

To become board certified in endocrinology, the following is requires:

complete all requirements for OB/GYN board certification
attend 3-year fellowship in reproductive endocrinology
pass written exam in reproductive endocrinology
pass oral exam in OB/GYN
complete 2-year practice experience
pass 3-hour oral exam in reproductive endocrinology

Currently in the United States, there are only about 500 board certified reproductive endocrinologists. Specifically for infertility related to males, urologists with a sub-specialty in andrology are the most qualified experts. They have completed 2-year fellowships and passed exams to become board certified in andrology.

It’s important that you work with a fertility specialist who is highly skilled clinically and involved on the emotional front as well. Infertility can be a frustrating time that causes feelings of hopelessness, inadequacy and despair – all the more reason to find the best care.