Choosing a Fertility Specialist

Synopsis: Choose a doctor with good credentials, with success rates near the national average, and, most importantly, that you like!

Before we went to a fertility specialist, I had seen three different gynecologists and had had both positive and negative experiences with them. I knew I wanted a fertility specialist who would take my case seriously and treat me with respect; I did not want my treatment to be delayed or impeded any further!

Luckily, I found a wonderful doctor that was recommended by my gynecologist AND whose clinic was in-network on my insurance plan. She also listened to my concerns and made me feel like I mattered!

If I were in the process of finding a new fertility doctor, here is what I would do:

1. Check my insurance network. I would see if there were any fertility specialists in-network for my insurance plan. Not all insurance policies offer coverage for infertility, but if yours does, it may be worthwhile to choose an in-network doctor.
2. Get a recommendation from my primary care physician/family doctor/gynecologist. If you have been seeing a doctor for fertility-related issues, or for anything else, ask if they have a recommendation for a fertility specialist. Chances are, they will know of a good specialist in your area.
3. Check the SART website. The Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology is a professional organization of doctors who perform IVF. Clinics that belong to this society meet high "meet the highest standards for quality, safety and patient care." You can compare the IVF outcomes of different clinics on their website. It is advisable to seek out a clinic with outcomes near the national average. 
4. Seek out reviews and ratings for the clinics and doctors I am interested in. If nobody has anything nice to say about a particular doctor, that might be an indication that there is a problem! However, keep in mind that "you can't please everyone" -- even a doctor that might be perfect for you has probably not been a good fit for someone else. 
5. Meet the doctor. I think it is extremely valuable to consult with your doctor face-to-face. Do you feel that he or she is concerned about your situation? Is the doctor willing to answer your questions in a way that you understand? Do you feel comfortable with the doctor and the staff? Do your personalities clash? This doctor and staff will be intimately involved in the creation of your family. It is worth finding someone that you like!