Like our patients, Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility is expanding its family with a new Cleveland area location now open in Independence, OH joining our family of clinics already located in Columbus, Akron, Canton and Youngstown. RGI is known for offering the most advanced fertility therapy and in vitro fertilization with a 100% IVF guarantee. If you’ve been trying to conceive for more than 12 consecutive months (six consecutive months for women over the age of 35) your doctor may recommend fertility treatments.

In vitro fertilization is a way to achieve pregnancy outside the body. The process involves monitoring and stimulating a woman’s ovulatory process, removing an ovum or ova (unfertilized egg) from the woman’s ovaries and letting sperm fertilize them in a laboratory setting.

Specializing in advanced IVF techniques

Standard IVF is a powerful fertility therapy that has helped thousands of men and women achieve pregnancy. However, if you’ve tried IVF unsuccessfully or suffer from certain conditions that make IVF less effective, the board-certified endocrinologists at Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility are specialized in the following advanced techniques and more:

• Preimplantation genetic screening & diagnosis (PGS/PGD)
  This test helps identify the healthiest embryos and improves your chance of implantation. PGS is a general screening of embryos that looks for genetic abnormalities and PGD is used to test for genetic disease.
• Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
  If your fertility issues are related to impaired sperm motility, the ICSI technique facilitates fertilization by injecting an individual sperm directly into the egg.
• Freezing and storing of eggs and embryos (cryopreservation)
  Cryopreservation can preserve your fertility for over 10 years. It’s a great solution for women who have extra eggs or embryos following IVF. It can also help preserve fertility if you need to delay starting your family due to personal or medical reasons.

If you live in Ohio and have been searching for safe, effective ‘IVF near me,’ visit Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility and learn how we can help you overcome your unique fertility issues and achieve pregnancy. Call 866-537-2461 to schedule an initial consultation.

Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility in Cleveland helps you maximize your chances of having a child with leading-edge fertility services. We’ll provide you with the exact fertility treatment and preservation technique you need to optimize your fertility.

Whether you want to preserve your fertility before starting cancer treatments, delay starting a family until your career is on track or you’ve found your life partner, we can help.

Five fertility treatments and services that can change your life

Here are five ways Cleveland reproductive medicine can change your life forever:

1. In vitro fertilization (IVF)
   Imagine your home full of joy and love only a child can bring. IVF is a treatment in which a woman’s egg is fertilized with sperm in a laboratory setting. It can help your dreams of having a baby come true.
2. Fertility surgery
   Fertility surgery can help you overcome many sources of infertility like endometriosis, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, PCOS or blocked fallopian tubes. The board-certified physicians at Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility are highly skilled in minimally invasive surgical techniques that may, in some cases, allow you to conceive naturally.
3. Egg donor program
   Whether you’re interested in becoming an egg donor or exploring fertility treatments using donor eggs, our skilled physicians are dedicated to safe, effective fertility care you can trust.
4. Embryo donation
   if you’ve gone through the IVF process and have additional embryos, you may choose to freeze them for later use or donate them to help another couple conceive.
5. Egg Cryopreservation
   There are many reasons women choose to store their eggs. Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility is proud to have achieved successes where others have not. We provide individual infertility solutions with the utmost compassion, convenience and commitment.

If you’re looking for the best in Cleveland reproductive medicine, look no further than the experienced, compassionate professionals at Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility. Take the next step in your fertility journey by giving us a call at 866-537-2461 to schedule an initial consultation.

At Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility we offer advanced fertility services like embryo adoption. Some parents have healthy, viable embryos remaining after in vitro fertilization. While many choose to cryopreserve their eggs for future use, some opt to donate their embryos to give them a chance for life. This provides other women the opportunity to experience the joys and challenges of pregnancy, labor and delivery.

Advantages of embryo adoption

If you are unable to conceive naturally and have experienced fertility issues using your own eggs, it may be time to explore embryo adoption. Here are a few unique advantages of embryo adoption:

1. Embryo adoption allows women to experience pregnancy and childbirth
   For some, the ability to experience the joys and challenges of pregnancy, labor and delivery are important steps toward becoming a mother.
2. Embryo adoption allows parents to begin bonding with their child immediately
   The opportunity to begin the bonding process in utero can be a precious gift for adopting couples.
3. Embryo adoption gives parents the ability to control the prenatal experience

This option allows the intended parents to choose a doctor to oversee the pregnancy and prenatal care. It will also ensure their baby is receiving a healthy diet and lifestyle.

4. Embryo adoption is less expensive and faster than other types of adoption
   The cost of adopting an embryo is about 50 percent less than adopting an infant. In fact, it is often less expensive than one IVF cycle.
5. Embryo adoption gives embryos a chance to have a life

Is embryo adoption right for me?

If you’ve experienced one or more unsuccessful IVF treatments and your doctor does not believe additional fresh cycles will be successful, embryo adoption might be right for you. Embryo adoption may also be right if you (or your partner) carry a genetic disease you do not want to pass on to your child.

If you’d like to learn more about embryo adoption, IVF or other leading-edge fertility treatments call the skilled physicians at Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility at 866-537-2461.

Important Notice About COVID-19 and the Coronavirus Vaccine

To Our Patients:

As your healthcare provider, we value—and are committed to—your health and the health of your family. We also understand that you have concerns about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, which has now been designated a global pandemic.

At all times, we prioritize optimal health, safety and infection control During this outbreak we are continuing to do so with special vigilance and focus.

We are closely monitoring the evolving situation and carefully following the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. In addition, we are taking specific measures to protect you, your family, our employees and the communities we serve.

As things change, we will adjust our policies and practices to respond appropriately to new developments. At the same time, we will keep you informed about best infection-control practices and what you need to know to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

How can you limit your exposure to the virus?

The best way to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is to avoid being exposed to the virus, which at this time is thought to spread mainly person-to-person. How do you do that?

• Wash your hands with soap and water – frequently and for at least 20 seconds each time
• If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol
• Avoid touching your face
• Maintain “social distancing” between others (about six feet apart)
• Avoid contact with people who are sick
• Cover your mouth and nose if you cough or sneeze (and immediately wash or sanitize your hands)

What should you do if you’re sick?

• Stay home except to get medical care when moderately ill – avoid public areas, transportation, events, etc.
• If you’re around other ill persons or caring for others, wear a facemask (N95)
• Cover coughs and sneezes, wash/sanitize hands and clean and disinfect all high-touch surfaces daily
• Monitor symptoms – seek prompt medical care if symptoms worsen
• Call your doctor before seeking care, including for appointments scheduled for other reasons
• Call 911 if you have a medical emergency

COVID-19 Vaccination for Pregnant Women and Women Contemplating Pregnancy

The doctors at RGI are following guidelines set forth from the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and the Society of Maternal Fetal Medicine (SMFM) regarding COVID-19 vaccination.

For women who are planning to conceive:

• The COVID-19 vaccination is encouraged for all women who are planning to conceive or who are undergoing infertility treatment.
• Since the COVID-19 vaccine does not contain a live virus, there is no reason to delay pregnancy because of vaccine administration.
• A pregnancy test is not required prior to vaccine administration.
• There is no evidence to suggest that COVID-19 vaccine induces infertility.

For women who are pregnant:

• ACOG recommends that the COVID-19 vaccine should not be withheld from pregnant women
• Pregnancy is a strong risk factor for the development of serious complications of COVID-19 infection and increases the risk of ICU admissions, intubation, and death. Additional risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure may further increase the chance of developing severe disease from COVID-19 infection.
• We respect and support the decision of our pregnant patients to receive or not receive the vaccine. Pregnant women should consider the level of activity of the pandemic in their community, the potential efficacy of the vaccine, the potential risk and severity of maternal and fetal effects of COVID-19 infection, and the safety of the vaccine.
• Since the vaccine trials did not include pregnant women, we are unable to evaluate the safety data for pregnant women. However, existing safety data suggests that the risk of fetal harm from mRNA vaccines is very low.

All patients regardless of vaccine status must continue to wear masks and practice social distancing.

For more information:

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) – Vaccinating Pregnant and Lactating Patients Against COVID-19

American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) Coronavirus/COVID-19 Task Force

Rest assured that we at Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility are taking this outbreak, and our responsibility as your trusted provide, seriously. We will continue evaluating developments and taking appropriate actions to reduce exposure and keep you up-to-date.

To Request an Appointment Call 866-537-2461 Or Use Our Easy Online Contact Form

Originally Presented by ASRM and the MHPG

Developed by the Mental Health Professional Group

Re-published by Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility

Q: If I’m trying to get pregnant, should I stop trying to conceive due to the Coronavirus?

A: If you don’t have COVID-19, there is no medical reason to change your plans regarding trying to conceive. However, there may be logistical, psychological, and emotional reasons to modify your plans. For example, there may be less access to routine prenatal care. Out of an abundance of caution, you may consider postponing pregnancy. This is a very personal decision, and you should speak with your doctor for specific recommendations.

Q: We are ready to start fertility treatments. Is it okay to continue during the pandemic?

A: As of March 17, 2020, the COVID-19 Task Force of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) issued clinical recommendations. These recommendations were reviewed on March 31st by the ASRM COVID-19 Task Force which chose, at that time, to keep the recommendations substantially the same. The Task Force is committed to review of these recommendations at least every two weeks. The recommendations suggest that clinics:

1. Don’t initiate new treatment cycles — including ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (IUI), in-vitro fertilization (IVF) (both egg retrievals and frozen embryo transfers), and non-urgent egg or embryo freezing.
2. Strongly consider canceling all embryo transfers (fresh or frozen).
3. Continue caring for patients who are “in-cycle,” or have urgent needs for stimulation or cryo-preservation (egg or embryo freezing), such as in cases of eminent surgery or start of medications that would affect fertility.
4. Postpone elective surgeries and any non-urgent diagnostic procedures.
5. Prioritize telemedicine over in-person contact.

Q: Will contracting COVID-19 now impact fertility later?

A: Research is still ongoing in this area. There are no studies indicating that the virus has any impact on fertility. While Coronavirus fears have caused some people to seek out egg freezing, there is no known medical indication to seek out egg freezing as a preventive measure.

Q: What if I test positive for COVID-19?

A: If you already have COVID-19, the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) recommends avoiding getting pregnant for now and waiting until you fully recover before attempting conception (either naturally or via assisted reproductive technology).

Q: What if I’m pregnant and test positive?

A: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), pregnant women don’t appear to be at a greater risk for illness related to COVID-19 — and only 1% of pregnant women infected has experienced severe illness that required medical attention. However, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) notes that very little is known about the effect of COVID-19 on pregnant women and infants. It is unclear if COVID-19 can cross the placenta. Because pregnant women are at greater risk of severe complications from similar respiratory infections, they are considered an at-risk population for COVID-19.

Q: If I test positive, can the virus be passed to my baby?

A: A study was conducted on nine pregnant women infected with COVID-19 in Wuhan, China. All women recovered from their illness and all nine had live births without any evidence of transmitting the virus to the baby. The virus was not detected in samples of cord blood, amniotic fluid, or throat swabs from the newborns, or breast milk. However, the COVID-19 infection was recently found in a newborn, so “vertical transmission” (meaning passage of the virus from mother to baby during the period immediately before and after birth) cannot be excluded at this point.

Q: How can I get through this? Not knowing when this will end is making my anxiety so much worse.

A: Experiencing fertility issues is difficult enough, and is often accompanied by increased levels of anxiety and depression. Adding COVID-19 to the mix exacerbates an already stressed emotional equilibrium. Please see the advice from the ASRM Mental Health Professional Group in the document, A Message from the MHPG and ASRM on Coping During the COVID-19 Pandemic, for additional support.

Contributed by Janet Jaffe, Ph.D., Kristen Chambliss, Ph.D., Alison Fagan, Ph.D., Jennifer Riley, M.S.W., L.S.W., and Deb Levy, M.A., L.P.C.

April is National Infertility Awareness Month, and the fertility specialists at Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility (RGI) wanted to share what happens when we get to meet the babies we help create.

Thrilled. Happy. Joyful.

These are just some of the words that come to mind when a baby conceived through in vitro fertilization (IVF) comes back to RGI for a visit. While we’ve known this little person since it was an impossibly tiny embryo, our eyes soften as we marvel at their tiny fingers and toes. It’s a special moment filled with heartfelt congratulations and well wishes. It’s also a very welcome reminder of why we do what we do.

“It brings me so much joy to reconnect with patients after they give birth. The RGI IVF process itself is highly personalized and gives me the opportunity to really get to know people, learn intimate details about their fertility struggles and help grow the family of their dreams. Meeting the baby is incredibly rewarding. I love to watch couples transform from disheartened to joyful—and so in love with their new little boy or girl.”

Is IVF right for me?

Unfortunately, infertility is very common, occurring in approximately 1 in 8 couples. The fertility specialists at Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility understand the emotional and physical toll fertility issues can take on people—and relationships. If you’ve been trying to conceive for 12 consecutive months, you might want to consider treatments like IVF. IVF is a safe and effective process of fertilization in which an egg is combined with a sperm outside of the body.

How much does IVF cost?

If you and your partner meet all of the IVF qualifications, each fresh embryo cycle can cost approximately $25,000. We understand a financial burden can make an already stressful situation worse. That’s why we created the IVF 100% Success Guaranteed Plan; we wanted to eliminate the stress of success. RGI is the first and only practice in Northeast and Central Ohio to offer a plan that shares the financial risk with IVF patients.

Our IVF 100% Success Guaranteed Plan means that we guarantee you’ll take home a baby or we’ll refund every penny.

“Scientific evidence confirms that stress and fertility go hand in hand. We want to help manage the emotional stress as well as the fertility of our patients. With the IVF 100% Success Guaranteed Plan, we can help ease the financial burden so our patients can focus on their mental and physical wellness during their fertility journey.”

How can I afford IVF?

There are many insurance plans that can help lower your costs—and financial risk. However, we are proud have an exclusive partnership with Samantha’s Gift of Hope, a quarterly monetary award intended for those who are already a part of RGI’s IVF 100% Success Guaranteed Plan in the Northeast Ohio office locations.

If you’d like to learn more about RGI, our IVF 100% Success Guaranteed Plan or applying for a Samantha’s Gift of Hope grant, please call 866-537-2461. We can’t wait to help grow your happily ever after… and marvel at your new baby girl or boy. There is hope, and we can help.

If you’re considering fertility treatment, and live in Ohio, there are many things to consider before making a treatment decision. In addition to finding a conveniently located fertility center and skilled physician you feel comfortable with, it’s important to learn about—and understand—their fertility success rates so you can make an informed decision.

Fertility clinics with high success rates may improve your chances of conception

Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility (RGI) is proud to display our Embryology Lab Success Rates on the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology’s (SART) website, which demonstrate the quality of our practice. In addition to success rates that are above the national average for both fresh and frozen cycles, we also offer a unique IVF 100% Success Guaranteed Plan, to maximize your chance of conception without the financial risk. When you’re ready to make one of the most important decisions of your life, it’s important to look for fertility clinics with the following characteristics:

• Board-certified reproductive endocrinologists
• Medical malpractice records
• Skilled medical team with extensive experience in fertility diagnosis and treatment
• Fertility success rates
• Hospital affiliations
• Insurance coverage and finance programs
• Convenient location and hours

Frequently asked questions about fertility treatments

If you and your partner have been trying to conceive for more than 12 consecutive months and are considering fertility treatments, there are many important questions to consider. The skilled medical team at RGI is ready to assist you and has created a list of frequently asked questions to help you get started on your fertility journey.

If you’d like more information about the RGI fertility clinic, our success rates for your specific diagnosis and treatment or the IVF 100% Success Guaranteed Plan, please contact us. Our fertility centers are conveniently located in South Cleveland, Columbus, Akron, Canton, and Youngstown. If you’re ready to take the next step on your fertility journey with us, please schedule an initial consultation by calling 844-707-1296.