Trouble Conceiving?

Get the Right Medical Care!

Part II

By Julie Watson

How do you find these "specialists?" It's easier than you think! First off, be cautious of word-of-mouth physicians. It may seem logical to use a physician suggested by someone who has had success. But remember, your situation is unique. Their doctor could have just been "lucky" with their situation. What you need to look for in a doctor is one with two attributes: credentials and compassion.

For credentials, check out the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (www.asrm.org) and the Society for Reproductive Endocrinologists (SRE) (www.socrei.org). Both have patient directories to find doctors locally. You must note, however, that the ASRM's directory is a physician self-designated directory. You may want to check with the ASRM directly to cross check a physician's true credentials. On the other hand, you must be a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist to be listed in the SRE directory.

Ah, the healthcare system! What do you do when your HMO requires you to get a referral letter from your primary OB/GYN to see a specialist? Never fear! As with all good things that are worth it, this may take some work and determination on your part. To tackle this situation, first ask your regular OB/GYN right from the start to refer you. If you have a particular specialist in mind who is listed on your plan, mention this person as the one you'd like to be referred to see. If your OB/GYN is hesitant and you do not wish to have her perform any tests on you, then there are ways around this as well.

Find the fertility clinic/specialist you want to be referred to. Call their office. Ask them who they think would refer you to them and then, if your plan allows it, switch to this OB/GYN to get a referral to the specialist of your choice. Granted it may sound a little crazy, but as the saying goes "desperate times deserve desperate measures."

Want to see more?

• Check out our Article Library.
• It's Been a Year: Now What?
• Making Sense of PCOS: Answers to Common Questions
• An At-Home "Sample": Testing for Sperm Concentration in the Privacy of Your Home
• Talk about it!