How to Choose the Right Fertility Specialist for Your Journey
Finding the right provider is an important step on your fertility journey. With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming to choose the best doctor and clinic for your needs. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting the right fertility specialist to guide you on your journey.
1. Credentials and Experience
Look for a fertility specialist who is board-certified in reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI). Not all fertility doctors are the same, so it’s crucial to understand what sets an REI apart.
An REI is an OB/GYN who has undergone additional, rigorous training in the field of reproductive medicine. After completing a 4-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology, they complete a 3-year fellowship specifically focused on:
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The diagnosis and treatment of infertility.
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The hormonal and endocrine systems that influence reproduction.
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Advanced fertility treatments like IVF, IUI, and egg freezing.
In addition to this certification, it’s helpful to consider their years of experience and whether they have expertise in the specific treatments or conditions that apply to your situation.
At Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago (AFCC), all of our physicians are board-certified REIs and they have a cumulative 35+ years of experience in the field of reproductive endocrinology and infertility. They specialize in a wide range of services from problems conceiving, to 40+ fertility treatment, to LGBTQ+ third party reproduction, and much, much more.
2. Success Rates
When evaluating fertility providers and fertility clinics more broadly, success rates can provide helpful insight into the quality of care and the clinic’s expertise. Most fertility clinics report their data to organizations like the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which track national trends in fertility care.
Clinics are required to report detailed information about the outcomes of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), including:
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The number of cycles performed for different procedures (e.g., IVF, egg freezing, or donor egg cycles).
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Success rates categorized by patient age, treatment type, and embryo transfer stage (fresh or frozen).
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Live birth rates, multiple birth rates, and other relevant outcomes.
Both SART and the CDC compile this data and publish annual reports, giving patients access to transparent, standardized information.
While clinic-specific reports can provide useful insight, they must be interpreted in context. High success rates may reflect a clinic’s ability to tailor treatments to individual needs, but they may also be influenced by factors like patient age and health. Ask the clinic to explain their data so you can make an informed decision.
At AFCC, our success rates have consistently surpassed the national average for the past 20 years. You can view our 2022 Preliminary Clinic Summary Report here.
3. Comprehensive Services
Every fertility journey is unique. It’s important to choose a provider and a clinic that offer a wide range of services, including diagnostic testing, intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), genetic screening, egg freezing, and donor services. This ensures you’ll have access to the treatments and support you need all in one place as your journey progresses. You can check out our full list of fertility services here.
4. Convenience and Accessibility
Your fertility journey will often require multiple appointments, especially if you’re undergoing a more complex treatment such as IVF, so location matters! Look for a clinic that is convenient for regular visits and offers flexible scheduling. Some clinics also offer virtual consultations for added convenience.
If your fertility provider works at a clinic with multiple locations, you may also need to take their schedule into consideration when scheduling appointments.
We have four offices in total at AFCC in Gurnee, Downers Grove, Arlington Heights, and Chicago River North.
5. Advanced Technology and Innovation
Fertility treatments are continually evolving. Clinics that invest in advanced technology, such as state-of-the-art labs and cutting-edge procedures, can increase your chances of success. Just like a clinic’s success rates, you can ask about the lab’s certifications and the techniques they use to optimize outcomes at every step of the fertility journey.
Our new IVF lab in River North will officially open in March 2025, expanding access to fertility care in downtown Chicago for the first time in AFCC’s history. Just like our lab in Gurnee, our River North lab will be CAP-accredited, housing top-of-the-line cryostorage and monitoring technology to ensure the safety and integrity of your reproductive materials.
6. Cost Transparency
It’s no secret that fertility treatments can be a significant investment, so it’s important to understand the costs upfront. A good clinic will provide clear information about treatment pricing, financing options, and insurance coverage.
Fortunately, fertility coverage is mandated for certain employers in the state of Illinois, meaning many patients that seek fertility care in the state will have some level of coverage. You can find more details about the insurance coverage mandate on our blog and our dedicated team of financial counselors at AFCC will be happy to walk you through the financial portion of your journey with full transparency.
7. Patient-Centered Care, Connection, and Trust
Finally, feeling comfortable with your fertility specialist and their team is crucial. The fertility journey is often described as an emotional rollercoaster, so you don’t want to feel like a number. Your provider should take the time to get to know you, explain your treatment options, listen to your concerns, and answer your questions with compassion. Reviews and testimonials from other patients on clinic websites and on Google can give you insight into the clinic’s approach to care as well as your provider’s specific approach.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Choosing the right fertility specialist is a personal decision, and we’re here to help. At Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago, our compassionate team is dedicated to providing personalized care and the latest in fertility treatments. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or are ready to take the next step, we’re here to support you.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward building the family of your dreams!
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About the AFCC Blog
Welcome to the Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago’s blog! Here, you will find information on the latest advancements in fertility care and treatments, including IVF, IUI, third-party reproduction, LGBTQ+ family building, preimplantation genetic testing, and more. Since 1997, we’ve used our experience and continuous investment in the latest fertility technology to help thousands of patients grow their families. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a new patient appointment.