How to Choose a Fertility Doctor

The National Fertility Directory believes that patients, as consumers, should carefully consider their options when choosing a specific doctor or fertility center. It is the goal of the National Fertility Directory to help provide you with the tools necessary to make an informed decision regarding healthcare choices in reproductive medicine.

The doctor you choose should conform to high standards of quality care, professional expertise and ethical conduct.

Use the search features on the National Fertility Directory site to directly compare Fertility Doctors, Fertility Centers and IVF programs. The following items can then be used to help you select the right doctor for your own healthcare needs.

Physician Standards

Board Certified in Reproductive Endocrinology and OB/GYN
Membership in the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART)
Pregnancy rates reported to SART
Membership in the Society of Reproductive Endocrinologists
Attendance at Continuing Medical Education meetings such as the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and the Pacific Coast Reproductive Society (PCRS)
Training in Laser Laparoscopy, Microsurgery and Hysteroscopy
Training in the evaluation and treatment of recurrent miscarriages

IVF Programs Standards

IVF Lab has a PhD Scientific Director
IVF Lab offers micromanipulation
IVF Lab has a successful cryopreservation program
IVF Lab offers full andrology (male fertility) testing
IVF Lab can arrange services for preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD)
IVF Lab performs a "sufficient" number of IVF procedures
IVF Lab has satisfactory pregnancy rates according to age
Offers ultrasound-guided embryo transfers

Ethical Practice Standards

Conforms to the Ethical Guidelines of ASRM
Follows ASRM guidelines for reducing the number of embryos transferred
Has acceptable low rate of high-order multiple gestation
Has a low level of complications such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
Offers Third Party Reproduction, including egg and sperm donation
In "Good Standing" with the State Medical Board and local Medical Society

If you would like information about a fertility clinic near you please click here.

How to Choose a Fertility Doctor

Learn about Infertility and Reproductive Medicine

Using the National Fertility Directory