What They Do
A reproductive endocrinologist, commonly known as a fertility specialist, is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions related to fertility and the hormonal systems that govern reproduction. This specialty builds on a foundation in gynecology and obstetrics, with additional focused training in fertility-related care.
What They Treat
Reproductive endocrinologists evaluate and treat both male and female fertility concerns, including conditions that affect ovulation, sperm health, or the structural aspects of the reproductive system that can impact the ability to conceive. They oversee fertility treatments, including procedures such as in vitro fertilization, and also manage hormonal conditions affecting the reproductive system more broadly, such as polycystic ovary syndrome.
Training Path
Becoming a reproductive endocrinologist requires completing a medical degree, followed by residency training in obstetrics and gynecology, and then additional specialized fellowship training specifically in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, covering the detailed hormonal and technical aspects of fertility treatment.
When to See One
People commonly see a reproductive endocrinologist after facing difficulty conceiving over a period of time, or when an underlying hormonal or reproductive condition affecting fertility has been identified. Couples or individuals considering fertility treatment options, including assisted reproductive techniques, typically work closely with a reproductive endocrinologist throughout that process.
Background
Reproductive endocrinology developed as a distinct subspecialty over the course of the 20th century, growing considerably following major advances in understanding reproductive hormones and, later, the development of assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization, first successfully achieved in the late 1970s. This breakthrough transformed the field, giving reproductive endocrinologists new tools to directly address many forms of infertility that had previously had limited treatment options.