FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions – Reproductive Endocrinology

What is a reproductive endocrinologist?

A reproductive endocrinologist is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating hormonal disorders related to fertility and reproductive health. At Michigan Fertility Institute, our highly trained reproductive endocrinologist has spent many years helping patients across Metro Detroit with concerns such as infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, endometriosis, PCOS, and more.

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When should I see a reproductive endocrinologist?

You may want to consult a reproductive endocrinologist if:

• You’ve been trying to conceive for 6–12 months without success, depending on age
  
• You have a history of irregular periods, miscarriage, or known reproductive disorders
  
• You’re over 35 and looking to conceive
  
• You need advanced fertility treatments such as IVF or egg freezing
  

Early evaluation can help you understand your options and begin a personalized path to parenthood.

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What happens during a fertility evaluation?

A comprehensive fertility evaluation typically includes:

• A review of your medical history and reproductive goals
  
• Hormone testing and bloodwork
  
• Pelvic ultrasound and other advanced imaging modalities to assess ovarian and uterine health
  
• Semen analysis (for male partners, if applicable)
  

These insights allow us to develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique situation.

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What fertility treatments do reproductive endocrinologists offer?

At Michigan Fertility Institute, we offer a full range of fertility treatments, including:

• Ovulation induction and cycle monitoring
  
• Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
  
• In vitro fertilization (IVF)
  
• Egg and embryo freezing
  
• Preimplantation genetic testing
  
• Minimally invasive surgery via hysteroscopy
  

Your plan will be carefully customized based on your needs and goals.

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Is treatment covered by insurance?

Although many diagnostic procedures and fertility treatments may not be covered by insurance, our team will help to verify your benefits and explain all costs upfront so you can make informed financial decisions. 

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Do you offer care for all individuals, regardless of race, sexual orientation, or relationship status?

Absolutely. Michigan Fertility Institute is proud to provide inclusive and affirming fertility care for all patients—including LGBTQ+ individuals, single parents by choice, and non-traditional family structures. We offer donor sperm, donor egg, and gestational carrier coordination services to support diverse paths to parenthood.

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How do I get started?

Getting started is easy. Simply schedule a consultation with our reproductive endocrinology team. We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and work with you to create a clear, personalized plan for moving forward.

What is the difference between a gynecologist and a reproductive endocrinologist?

While both specialize in women’s reproductive health, a reproductive endocrinologist is a subspecialist trained to diagnose and treat complex fertility and hormonal issues. If you’ve been trying to conceive without success, or have underlying conditions like PCOS or endometriosis, a reproductive endocrinologist can help offer more targeted diagnostic tools and treatments such as IVF and egg preservation.

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Can you help with conditions like PCOS and endometriosis?

Yes. We regularly treat patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and other conditions that affect fertility. These disorders can cause hormone imbalances, irregular cycles, and ovulation issues—all of which can interfere with conception. Our individualized treatment plans can help manage symptoms and improve your chances of becoming pregnant.

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What causes infertility in men, and can you help?

Yes, male factor infertility accounts for nearly 40% of fertility challenges. Causes may include low sperm count, poor motility, hormone imbalances, or anatomical issues. At Michigan Fertility Institute, we offer:

• Semen analysis
  
• Hormone evaluations
  
• Sperm retrieval procedures in collaboration with urologists
  
• Supportive treatment options, including IVF with ICSI
  

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Do you offer fertility preservation like egg or embryo freezing?

Absolutely. We offer both egg freezing and embryo cryopreservation for patients who want to preserve their fertility for future use. This is a great option for:

• Individuals delaying childbearing for personal or professional reasons
  
• Patients undergoing medical treatments like chemotherapy
  
• People planning on building a family later
  

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How long does the fertility treatment process take?

Timelines vary based on your treatment plan. For example:

• Initial testing and diagnosis may take 2–4 weeks
  
• Ovulation induction or IUI cycles typically last 2–3 weeks
  
• IVF treatment takes about 6–8 weeks from start to embryo transfer depending on initial evaluation and workup.
  

We’ll walk you through every step with clear expectations and scheduling guidance.

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Are there age limits for fertility treatment?

Age plays a significant role in fertility outcomes and can also impact pregnancy-related risks. As women age, particularly after 35, there is a natural decline in both the quantity and quality of eggs, with a more pronounced decrease after 40. We’ll assess your reproductive health and provide honest, evidence-based guidance tailored to your age and goals, whether you’re considering using your own eggs or exploring other options like donor eggs.

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Can I transfer my care to your fertility center if I’ve already started treatment elsewhere?

Yes! We regularly work with patients transferring from other clinics. Whether you’re seeking a second opinion, continuing treatment, or looking for a fresh start, our team will review your existing records and help make the transition seamless.

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How soon can I get an appointment?

In most cases, we can schedule new patient consultations within 1–2 weeks. We understand the urgency and emotional weight of fertility care, so we strive to keep wait times minimal while still providing thorough, personalized care.