Reproductive endocrinology

Reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI) is a surgical subspecialty of obstetrics and gynecology that addresses hormonal functioning as it pertains to reproduction. While a major focus of REI is infertility, reproductive endocrinologists also evaluate and treat hormonal dysfunctions in female and males outside of infertility. Reproductive surgeons operate on anatomical disorders that affect fertility. Reproductive endocrinologists have a specialty training in obstetrics and gynecology before they undergo subspecialty training (fellowship) in reproductive endocrinology and infertility.

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Fields of interest

Female infertility

A significant part of reproductive endocrinology and infertility is concerned with the diagnosis and management of infertility. Thus reproductive endocrinologists evaluate and treat couples with reproductive disorders, may perform reproductive surgery, and often utilize in-vitro fertilization to achieve pregnancy. Reproductive endocrinologist also are called upon to utilize preimplantation genetic diagnosis to prevent genetic diseases in couples that carry such diseases or for gender selection.

Reproductive surgery

Complex surgery in women or men that aims to preserve reproductive potential is often done by RE specialist.

Non-infertility issues

Reproductive endocrinologists are also especially trained to deal with complex hormonal issues in women or men.

Certification

In a number of countries the pathway to become a subspecialist in REI is regulated. Thus in the United States the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) sets the standards for subspecialtists to become certified. After a four-year training in Obstetrics and Gynecology a three-year approved fellowship needs to be successfully completed. To be board certified in reproductive endocrinolgy and infertility, one must first complete board certification in obstetrics and gynecology (written and oral exams) and then certify in reproductive edncrinology and infertility (written oral and thesis exams).

Societies

Reproductive endocrinologists often belong to specific medical societies, such as ASRM or ESHRE.

See also

• Andrology
• Endocrinology
• Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis