What you need to know about choosing an REI doctor over an OBGYN
Dealing with infertility can feel frustrating and isolating, yet many couples and individuals encounter difficulty getting pregnant. In fact, approximately 10% of couples in the United States have trouble trying to conceive a baby. Although the logical first step may seem like a visit with your OBGYN, an appointment with a fertility specialist is the best and fastest way to get on the path to pregnancy. Our Northern Louisiana fertility expert, David T. Vandermolen MD, MS, is an REI doctor with the advanced training required to deliver an accurate infertility diagnosis.
What is a reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI) specialist?
An REI is a doctor with advanced education and training beyond the traditional obstetrics and gynecology education path. As a fellowship-trained and board-certified reproductive endocrinologist, Dr. Vandermolen completed additional years of study focused on understanding the female reproductive system and the related infertility problems that can occur. His expertise as an REI doctor enables our Northern Louisiana fertility expert to provide in-depth fertility testing as well as leading-edge treatment options.
Why should you see an REI instead of an OBGYN?
In the same way that you would see an orthodontist, not a general dentist, if you need braces, you should choose an REI doctor if you are having trouble getting pregnant. Having a trusted health partner like an OBGYN ensures that women receive excellent health care throughout their lifetimes. Because fertility specialists have advanced training in reproductive endocrinology and immunology, physicians like Dr. Vandermolen are best suited to identity and treat common causes of infertility.
An accurate infertility diagnosis is a critical first step in getting the targeted treatment you may need to grow your family. Consider seeing an REI if you:
- Tried to conceive for 12 months without success (six months for women ages 35 and older)
- Experienced two or more miscarriages
- Successfully carried a pregnancy to term, but can’t conceive again
- Don’t have regular menstrual cycles
How do you choose the right REI doctor?
Selecting the best fertility specialist is a big decision. Medical expertise and successful clinical outcomes are key factors, and Dr. Vandermolen has all the necessary credentials hopeful parents look for in an REI.
The team at ArkLaTex Fertility is also committed to ensuring that our patients receive compassionate care and unwavering support during their infertility journeys. We will answer every question, explain all options, and walk with you each step of the way.
Although trying to get pregnant without any luck is disappointing, we want our patients to know that there is hope. An accurate infertility diagnosis, advanced reproductive technologies, and a dedicated REI doctor like Dr. Vandermolen can significantly improve the odds of a positive outcome. Contact our office to schedule an appointment with our Northern Louisiana fertility expert.