Pregnancy & Childbirth

Reproductive Endocrinology

We help individuals and couples understand and address fertility and hormonal concerns, offering compassionate, personalized care for a broad range of reproductive health needs.

Reproductive endocrinology focuses on understanding and treating hormonal and reproductive system concerns that can affect fertility and reproductive health. At TidalHealth, our team is here to help individuals and couples trying to conceive, including same-sex couples, single parents by choice, and those dealing with underlying endocrine disorders. We also support adolescents with menstrual or puberty concerns and people seeking fertility preservation before medical treatments like cancer therapy.

We evaluate and manage a variety of conditions such as:

  • Infertility
  • Recurrent pregnancy loss
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
  • Premature ovarian insufficiency
  • Male factor infertility
  • Endometriosis-related infertility
  • Hormone-related menstrual disorders

Each person's care is individualized and may include hormonal testing, ultrasound imaging, semen analysis, ovulation induction, assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF), and surgical treatment options when needed.

Our Approach

Our care is team-based, with specialists working together to create a personalized treatment plan. The team includes:

  • Reproductive endocrinologists
  • Specialized nurses and coordinators
  • Embryologists and andrologists
  • Genetic counselors
  • Mental health professionals
  • Reproductive surgeons

We also collaborate with other specialists as needed to provide evidence-based, compassionate care that considers your goals, medical history, and values. We recognize that these situations can be complex, both medically and emotionally. Throughout your care, we focus on clear communication, setting realistic expectations, and offering the supportive resources you need to feel empowered and supported every step of the way.

What does a reproductive endocrinologist do?
A reproductive endocrinologist at TidalHealth specializes in the hormones and reproductive organs that affect fertility and menstrual health. Our team diagnoses underlying causes of infertility and menstrual disorders and offers medical, surgical, and assisted reproductive treatments.

When should I see a reproductive endocrinologist for infertility?
We suggest seeking evaluation after:

  • 12 months of trying to conceive without success if the woman is under 35
  • 6 months if the woman is 35 or older
    If you have known risk factors, such as irregular cycles, endometriosis, previous cancer treatment, or a known male factor, an earlier referral is appropriate.

What tests are part of an infertility evaluation?

  • Hormone blood tests (e.g., day-3 FSH, AMH, thyroid)
  • Pelvic ultrasound
  • Hysterosalpingography (to check fallopian tube patency)
  • Semen analysis for male partners
  • Genetic testing or laparoscopy, if needed

What treatment options are available?
Treatment depends on your diagnosis and may include:

  • Lifestyle changes
  • Ovulation induction medications
  • Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
  • In vitro fertilization (IVF/ICSI)
  • Surgical correction of structural problems
  • Hormone replacement for certain conditions
  • Fertility preservation (e.g., egg or sperm freezing)

How does age affect fertility?
Female fertility declines with age, especially after the mid-30s, due to decreasing egg quantity and quality. Male fertility declines more slowly but can still be affected by age and health conditions. Age is an important factor in counseling and planning your care.

Are treatments successful? What are the risks?
Success rates depend on the diagnosis, age, and treatment selected. For example, IVF often has higher success rates than IUI for some causes of infertility, though rates decline with increased maternal age. Risks may include:

  • Multiple pregnancy
  • Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
  • Procedure-related complications
  • Emotional stress

Our specialists at TidalHealth will discuss your individual success estimates and explore ways to reduce risks.

Will my insurance cover treatment?
Insurance coverage varies. Some plans may cover diagnostic testing and certain treatments, while others may not. Our team can help you understand expected costs, insurance requirements, and assist with authorizations when possible.

How long does treatment take and what should I expect emotionally?
Some treatments, such as ovulation induction with IUI, can be completed in a single cycle. Others, like IVF, usually take several weeks per cycle and require multiple visits. Fertility care can be emotionally demanding, and counseling or support groups are often helpful. We can build these resources into your care plan with TidalHealth.