Many readers have asked about the path traveled by their infertility physicians. Today I discuss the definition of a Reproductive Endocrinologist and infertility specialist and the education/time required to become an Infertility specialist.
A Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility specialist (REI) is defined by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology as “a subspecialist in obstetrics and gynecology who provides consultation and/or comprehensive care of women with complex problems related to reproductive endocrinology and infertility.” So, an REI is a physician who treats women that have reproductive problems ranging from hormonal imbalances (such as menopause, low libido, or hyperprolactinemia) to contraception to recurrent pregnancy loss to infertility. IVF treatments are just a small part of the field of REI.
The REI is also a reproductive surgeon who can surgically treat correctable problems of the female reproductive tract. The typical types of surgeries that an REI performs to treat infertility are laparoscopies and hysteroscopies. These surgeries are employed to treat endometrial masses such as polyps and fibroids or to treat pelvic pathology such as ovarian cysts or damaged fallopian tubes.
Becoming an REI “requires additional education and training to acquire advanced knowledge of the most current diagnostic and therapeutic approaches available.” The road to becoming an REI is a long and competitive path. One must undergo 4 years of medical school, 4 years of OB/Gyn residency training, and 3 years of REI fellowship training (that’s 11 years of schooling after college!). Being selected to enter into the subspecialty of REI is very competitive. Fellowship training programs pick from the “cream of the crop” of the applicants.
So, the next time you are in your REI’s office, check out the diplomas on the wall. There should be a bunch of them hanging up there!
Dr. Lowell T. Ku, M.D. is a leading Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility specialist at Dallas IVF, one the nation’s premiere infertility centers. Dr. Ku clarifies the many confusing terms used in the world of Infertility using straightforward explanations.
2 Comments
This is enlightening.I never knew that endocrinologist could be a reproductive specialist.Knowing that they can also sub-specialize is very informative too.Thiis will help me know who to go to for mediccal care when i have any sex or reproductive issues.
Glad to help out Kay! The reproductive endocrinologist must undergo OB/Gyn training first before entering into the infertility fellowship. The medical endocrinologist must undergo Internal Medicine training before entering into a medical endocrinology fellowship. Hope this help!