DEFINITION

Reproductive endocrinology and infertility

Reproductive endocrinology is a subspecialty of Obstetrics and Gynecology that entails reproductive medicine, also known as infertility treatment. Fertility medicine uses a variety of artificial methods to help a woman become pregnant when she has been unable to conceive naturally. This relatively new medical sub-specialty relies upon cutting-edge technology that becomes more advanced each year.

The field of reproductive endocrinology and infertility is a subspecialty within obstetrics and gynecology. Board-certified reproductive endocrinologists, in the United States, must complete a three-year fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, sit for a written exam at the end of residency and then have an oral exam after the first few years of practice.

Reproductive endocrinologists are qualified to handle complex medical issues, involving hormonal imbalances in the reproductive system, such as infertility and recurrent miscarriages.

A reproductive endocrinologist would usually not be a primary provider of prenatal care throughout pregnancy but would manage testing and treatment of fertility issues before transferring patients back to an OB/GYN for prenatal care once the pregnancy was established and appeared viable.