When a couple first discovers they have an infertility problem, seeing a Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist immediately is to their advantage.  Dr. Witten has special training focused on infertility, and has passed the qualifying written and oral exam administered by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.  He is an expert in his field ranging from the most basic treatment with oral medications, to high tech IVF (in vitro fertilization) with its specialized laboratory technologies.  Quick and accurate diagnosis and treatment is essential in the interest of time.  Advanced maternal age (35 or more years old) has a definite impact on infertility and pregnancy outcome.

A Reproductive Endocrinologist is a physician who has completed a medical degree (4 years), an Obstetrics and Gynecology residency (4 years), and an approved fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (2-3 years).  This subspecialty of Obstetrics and Gynecology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of infertility and its many associated conditions.  These conditions vary from anatomical to hormonal. In order to treat the variety of conditions which his or her patients may present, a Reproductive Endocrinologist is trained in the most advanced conservative surgical techniques in both the endoscopic and microsurgical realm. This allows him or her to perform restorative procedures to treat the many patients who suffer with endometriosis or other anatomical conditions.  He or she is also trained extensively in advanced reproductive techniques such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Embryo Transfer.

In order to try to identify the cause of infertility, we routinely depend on an initial history and physical exam, a hysterosalpingogram (an x-ray of the pelvis), a semen analysis (sperm count), some basic blood tests, and at times, an ultrasound exam.  At times, patients may need further evaluation with additional tests on an individual basis.  Dr. Witten takes pride in guiding patients through their evaluation with efficiency, compassion, and understanding.

Discovery of the specific cause of infertility requires diligence, interest, and attention to detail.  Dr. Witten has extensive experience in the evaluation and treatment of infertile couples.  It is the hope of our clinic that this information makes our patients feel more at ease with what is much too often a very anxious decision...to finally visit 'The Fertility Specialist."

When taking fertility drugs, there is always a chance for multiple births. Dr. Witten, however, can use ultrasound and blood tests to monitor egg production each cycle. Medication can be adjusted to increase or decrease egg production and minimize the risk of multiple birth.

Yes.  The IVF procedure bypasses the fallopian tubes.  Eggs are collected from the ovaries and embryos are replaced directly into the uterus.  A pregnancy can therefore be achieved without having to reopen the tubes.  However, depending on the method used when the tubes were tied, they may be reopened surgically (tubal reanastomosis).  The success rate for pregnancy (non-IVF) following a tubal reanantomosis is somewhat decreased.

• Does my insurance plan cover diagnostic evaluation for infertility, such as lab work, ultrasounds, hysterosalpingogram, and semen analysis?
• Does my insurance plan cover infertility treatment, such as artificial insemination or In Vitro fertilization?
• What is my co-payment to a fertility specialist?
• What is my deductible?
• Does my insurance cover oral or injectable medications for infertility (such as Clomid and Follistim)?  If you have separate pharmacy coverage, you may have to call your pharmacy plan to get this information.

Remember, you are their customer and have more influence with your insurance provider than your physician.  Your involvement and assistance in coordination of authorizations is an important part of this process.  The more you know about your coverage, the easier it becomes to go forward with treatment.  If a referral is required, it is your responsibility to obtain one from your OB/GYN or primary care physician prior to your first appointment.   info@achildforus.com