Emory University Reproductive Center

Dr. Spencer was very respectful and knowledgeable of my needs as na LGBTQ person. She was also very inclusive of my wife...She was good with explaining protocols, and setting reasonable expectations. When I had failed attempts, she was very empathetic. There were times when I had questions that my nurse couldn't answer and it sometimes took several days for Dr. Spencer to respond. I know she's busy but that can add stress to an already stressful process...Dr. Spencer had a strong preference for eSET...

Lisa [nurse at Emory University Reproductive Center] was very responsive and was always happy to answer any questions that I had...Because there are so many people involved in your care, sometimes the answers you get will be a little different. I did find that the financial team was less communicative than the clinical team. I wouldn't get updates about the approval process unless I asked, even when things were in process...

How was your experience with Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Dr. Spencer did well with all of our interactions. She was good with explaining protocols, and setting reasonable expectations. When I had failed attempts, she was very empathetic. There were times when I had questions that my nurse couldn't answer and it sometimes took several days for Dr. Spencer to respond. I know she's busy but that can add stress to an already stressful process.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center?

When given the opportunity to meet directly with Dr. Spencer, be sure to ask lots of questions. She is very responsive and makes it a point to answer all of your questions during your appointment. I never felt rushed during the process.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Dr. Spencer does a good job of empathizing with you when things go wrong and also with setting realistic expectations.

Describe the protocols Jessica Spencer used in your cycles at Emory University Reproductive Center and their degree of success.

I had 3 failed IUI attempts with Dr. Spencer. The first was an unmedicated cycle. The others were medicated cycles with Clomid and HCG triggers. I'm now in the middle of my first IVF cycle. We used an antagonist protocol which resulted in 29+ mature follicles. I used a Lupron trigger but unfortunately ovulated the morning of my egg retrieval. She was able to retrieve 11 eggs, which resulted in 1 embryo. I'm currently in the middle of preparation for my FET.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Emory University Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Lisa)

Lisa was very responsive and was always happy to answer any questions that I had.

Describe your experience with Emory University Reproductive Center.

Strengths: Very responsive to pool messages and very clear on what times they are most reachable. I found it very easy to get scheduled for my needed monitoring appointments. Several locations to choose from Weaknesses: Because there are so many people involved in your care, sometimes the answers you get will be a little different. I did find that the financial team was less communicative than the clinical team. I wouldn't get updates about the approval process unless I asked, even when things were in process.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center.

IUIs were covered by my insurance, so just my copay. One round of IVF is costing about $15k. My IVF meds cost about $13k.

Describe Jessica Spencer's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Emory University Reproductive Center.

Dr. Spencer had a strong preference for eSET and only performs multiple embryo transfer in very rare circumstances.

How competent was Emory University Reproductive Center at LGBTQ+ care?

Dr. Spencer was very respectful and knowledgeable of my needs as na LGBTQ person. She was also very inclusive of my wife.

Describe your experience using 3rd party reproduction (donor eggs, donor sperm, or gestational carrier) at Emory University Reproductive Center.

The coordination of our sperm bank went very well. We had no issues getting our sperm delivered and they did a good job of letting us know when things arrived.

Doctor

Jessica Spencer

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

LGBTQ+ Care

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Emory University Reproductive Center

Atlanta

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

LGBTQ+ Care

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Jessica Spencer Emory University Reproductive Center

2018 - 2020, Successful

Age 32 - 34

3 IUI

2 IVF

Male Factor

Unexplained

European

Income $200K - $499K

Marketer or PR

Only Doc Seen

Donor Sperm

Strongly Recommends

Neutral

Successful

Review of

David Austin Schirmer III Emory University Reproductive Center

Dr. Schirmer was very transparent on the opportunities for success and struggles we faced during our infertility journey. He was kind and patient at each step of our process, answering all questions we had in an honest yet optimistic manner, and provided thoughtful detailed options along the way...We had 3 failed IUI’s which I do think was a waste of money, but [he] changed treatment plans and after switching to IVF we retrieved 18 eggs

[Emory U approx cost] ~$15k for IVF retrieval & transfer, plus $7k for medication (out of pocket)...I don’t love that the large number of doctors are on rotation so it wasn’t guaranteed that Dr. Schirmer would perform my procedures. I also overpaid around $2K and it took over 8-months of my aggressively following up with Emory to then only get a credit instead of an actual refund. The billing isn’t handled by the Dr but it was enough of a frustrating experience to make me not want to return for future treatments

How was your experience with David Austin Schirmer III at Emory University Reproductive Center?

I went in having done a tremendous amount of research ahead of time but my husband had not. I asked a lot of questions to confirm what I had researched and to get my husband up to speed, and Dr. Schirmer was so patient and informative. We had 3 failed IUI’s which I do think was a waste of money, but Dr. Schirmer changed treatment plans and after switching to IVF we retrieved 18 eggs. Using ICSI we got 2 blastocyst embryos after our first retrieval. After a frozen transfer, we had a healthy baby! Dr Schurmer was great along the way and performed my transfer. We then tried a second retrieval which resulted in 28 eggs. Despite undergoing an emergency ICSI procedure after only 1 egg was fertilized naturally, no embryos made it paste day 3 growth. Another doctor in the practice performed this retrieval but she was great too. It was devastating to spend so much money out of pocket to not get any embryos in the end. Dr. Schirmer was very considerate and sympathetic when presenting our options and future treatment plans. We are in the process of planning next steps.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Austin Schirmer III at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Ask questions if you have them. Make sure you are upfront and honest about what you want and what concerns you have so he can provide answers and you can be on the same page. I was concerned over a resident who performed one of my exams because the person smelled like smoke (which I was incredibly sensitive to) and Dr Schirmer was sensitive to my frustration and I didn’t encounter the situation again and he assured me that is not something that would occur again.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Austin Schirmer III at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Dr. Schirmer was very transparent on the opportunities for success and struggles we faced during our infertility journey. He was kind and patient at each step of our process, answering all questions we had in an honest yet optimistic manner, and provided thoughtful detailed options along the way. His dedicated nurse was wonderful was wonderful and kind as well.

Describe the protocols David Austin Schirmer III used in your cycles at Emory University Reproductive Center and their degree of success.

I already shared a good bit about this in my other response. 3-rounds of failed IUI. 1 retrieval that resulted in 2 embryos. 1 frozen transfer resulted in a live birth. 1 retrieval that resulted in no embryos. Lots of hormone medicine... so many shots and patches.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Emory University Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: T)

Tadzia was great. She was very kind and would follow up when she said she would.

Describe your experience with Emory University Reproductive Center.

I don’t love that the large number of doctors are on rotation so it wasn’t guaranteed that Dr. Schirmer would perform my procedures. I also overpaid around $2K and it took over 8-months of my aggressively following up with Emory to then only get a credit instead of an actual refund. The billing isn’t handled by the Dr but it was enough of a frustrating experience to make me not want to return for future treatments. I eventually did because I really liked Dr. Schirmer but Emory’s billing system is the worst I’ve seen. They strung me along saying a refund check would be in the mail and sent within the month. It took several months of my following up to then eventually just go into labor and have that credit applied to my balance for labor and delivery. I would have much rather had that $2K in my pocket for 8-months than let them sit on it.

Describe the costs associated with your care under David Austin Schirmer III at Emory University Reproductive Center.

~$15k for IVF retrieval & transfer, plus $7k for medication (out of pocket)

Describe David Austin Schirmer III's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Emory University Reproductive Center.

I was told that Emory had a policy about not doing multiple embryo transfer for the first transfer for healthy women. We only transferred one embryo and got a single live birth. There are apparently some other considerations for transferring multiple embryos like older women or those with many failed transfers.

Doctor

David Austin Schirmer III

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Emory University Reproductive Center

Atlanta

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

David Austin Schirmer III Emory University Reproductive Center

2015 - 2019, Unsuccessful

Age 38 - 42

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Unexplained

European

Income $50K - $99K

Marketer or PR

1st of 2 Docs

3 IUI With Other Docs

Neutral

Unsuccessful

Review of

Jennifer Kawwass Emory University Reproductive Center

communication style is very direct, which I appreciate, but we did not connect [to Dr. Kawass] on any other level which made it difficult to hear one another. Later experiences improved but I always have the sense that I'm viewed as that crazy patient that didn't follow orders - even when there was no possibility of that happening financially at the time...If you're the type of person that just wants to be told what to do - she's incredible...

Emory is a teaching hospital. Be prepared to handle that. Everyone is wonderful but some are still learning and it makes for some interesting experiences. If you're not up for making room for that, this is not your clinic...sometimes getting told there may be 4 people in the room or a simple ultrasound taking longer because the tech doesn't have enough experience to get in and get out. Everyone is friendly but there is not one standard for the clinic. As an example - one of my nurses knows that slow follicle growth is still growth and will explain exactly what is happening.

How was your experience with Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center?

My surgical procedure was successful but the after care was not as aggressive as it could have been. Other procedures included hormones and other precautions to avoid the condition returning. Her communication style is very direct, which I appreciate, but we did not connect on any other level which made it difficult to hear one another. Later experiences improved but I always have the sense that I'm viewed as that crazy patient that didn't follow orders - even when there was no possibility of that happening financially at the time.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center?

If you're the type of person that just wants to be told what to do - she's incredible.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center?

..."don't come back to me a year from now saying you're ready to try IVF"... it was a devastating appointment. Not to mention we received a call from the pharmacy to pick up shots we weren't ready to use before we even left the parking lot. We did choose to take things slow after surgery... and she may have been right on the money about our timing but it isn't just about what works on paper. Knowing now just how much IUI costs add up and contemplating IVF and what it may do to our savings, there was no way we could have afforded it then. It will be financial restrictions in the end that may keep us from building our family - which is unfair and unacceptable. That said, on that day I felt like I was in danger of ruining someone's success record instead of someone who came in ready to take part in my treatment.

Describe the protocols Jennifer Kawwass used in your cycles at Emory University Reproductive Center and their degree of success.

Pills to bring on cycle Ultrasounds HSG and SHG Surgery to address unexplained adhesion Did not order hormone regimen or balloon cath Suggested 2 immediate rounds of IUI followed by IVF within 4 months post op

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Emory University Reproductive Center.

Describe your experience with Emory University Reproductive Center.

Teaching environment often leaves a lot to be desired... the little things. And sometimes getting told there may be 4 people in the room or a simple ultrasound taking longer because the tech doesn't have enough experience to get in and get out. Everyone is friendly but there is not one standard for the clinic. As an example - one of my nurses knows that slow follicle growth is still growth and will explain exactly what is happening. Another of the nurses told me there was "no response" because my activity didn't meet the standards on paper. This is the kind of news that can send you under a blanket for days!! You have to advocate for yourself EVERY step of the way here and that is difficult to navigate when treatments are new and the process is a mystery.

What specific things went wrong at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Failed to call with results
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Emory University Reproductive Center.

Inconsistent results have been revealed. I had to insist that a note be placed in my chart that I don't care about what is "supposed" to be happening, I want to know what "is" happening and hear recommendations based on both parts of the equation. I am my own advocate and it is exhausting and somewhat scary to not really be led through the process. Some have far better bedside manner than other and that's fine. I just often feel I'm at square one every time I walk in.

Doctor

Jennifer Kawwass

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Emory University Reproductive Center

Atlanta

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Jennifer Kawwass Emory University Reproductive Center

2015 - 2019, Unknown Success

Age 38 - 42

3 IUI

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Unexplained

European

Income $50K - $99K

Marketer or PR

2nd of 2 Docs

4 Fertility Medications With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Neutral

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Heather Hipp Emory University Reproductive Center

She [Dr. Hipp] is always willing to support our choices - as long as there are still options on the table. I have never felt left out of the conversation or the decisions we have made in my treatment and surgical plans... is knowledgeable, confident, and compassionate...is willing to advocate for your care to fit you and your needs - all while competently addressing the issues at hand. She is willing to look under all the rocks for possible adjustments or procedures and is willing to allow your body to work hard in its own unique time.

I have missed critical pre-op appointments with my RE [at Emory University] that were never scheduled. I have had a balloon catheter placed without prior discussion. I have had medications I wasn't ready for called in on my behalf. I have been brought in for procedures in the past despite being in the wrong phase of my cycle for the test. I've had a nurse answer a personal call whilst an ultrasound wand was inside my vagina...is a teaching environment and not all of the nurses have the same approach to sharing treatment results.

How was your experience with Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Dr. Hipp was my personal choice having met with her for the various procedures that began my treatment. We immediately built a report. She is always willing to support our choices - as long as there are still options on the table. I have never felt left out of the conversation or the decisions we have made in my treatment and surgical plans. While still in the burgeoning years of her career, Dr. Hipp is knowledgeable, confident, and compassionate.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Dr. Hipp is willing to advocate for your care to fit you and your needs - all while competently addressing the issues at hand. She is willing to look under all the rocks for possible adjustments or procedures and is willing to allow your body to work hard in its own unique time.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Dr. Hipp is warm and friendly. She is realistic and gentle-of-spirit - even when the subject of conversation is not the news you'd like. At one point in my treatment, Dr. Hipp called me personally to share some troubling news and immediately went to work to have my tests reevaluated so that we had plenty of options and information to work with. She is so caring and hopeful for us, with us, and is always direct without being unkind.

Describe the protocols Heather Hipp used in your cycles at Emory University Reproductive Center and their degree of success.

We have worked hard for years combating unexplained scar tissue - pills, injections, tests, surgeries, balloon catheters - together we've thrown out the rule books and have made tremendous progress. We've had varying levels of hormones serve as roadblocks along the way and through Dr. Hipp's guidance, have corrected and been able to keep moving forward. And we haven't stopped yet - we finally got the last surgical procedure aligned with the right combination of injections, acupuncture, a proper cath... - and low and behold, my cycles even came back unassisted for the first time in years! Dr. Hipp's recommendations have been strategic and considerate of my unique circumstances. We will likely move forward with IVF in the coming weeks and I know that I am in good hands as we attempt this next phase.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Emory University Reproductive Center.

ERC is a teaching environment and not all of the nurses have the same approach to sharing treatment results. As an example - follicles like mine respond very slowly - but they are responding. Some nurses see the slow response not match what is considered to be large enough to get excited about. Some tell you every detail. For me, I want and need to know that I have growth at xx size and at xx amount on each ovary - as opposed to being told there has been "no response" simply because the sizing hasn't reached the size that nurse has been trained to disclose. So, I've had to say - "Put it in my chart that I want to know every detail. You can't tell a 40-year-old woman there's 'no response' to 225 daily units of Follistim when what's really happening is 8 follicles measuring at 8s and 9s." For me, any progress is progress and I've been able to take the information and use it to determine if the cycle was still viable for IUI. So far, so good. The staff is open to making adjustments - but you have to advocate for yourself in this environment. Otherwise, the lessons tend to be more focused by-the-book.

Describe your experience with Emory University Reproductive Center.

This clinic is a teaching environment and that is an environment I've had to make adjustments for. On occasion, I've had the ultrasound tech that is nervous or the nurse that answers her cell phone. There have been some surprises along the way. If you choose to seek treatment here, remember that it is okay to refuse to let 4 fellows in the room for your SHG or whatever heinous and scary test you may have to have run during your journey and take opportunities to share your constructive feedback. You are first and foremost!

Describe the costs associated with your care under Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center.

My insurance covers a great deal of the costs. My deductible is $2700. In 2018, my IUI medications cost me $5300 out of pocket in addition to meeting my individual deductible.

What specific things went wrong at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost appointments
Failed to call with results
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Emory University Reproductive Center.

I have missed critical pre-op appointments with my RE that were never scheduled. I have had a balloon catheter placed without prior discussion. I have had medications I wasn't ready for called in on my behalf. I have been brought in for procedures in the past despite being in the wrong phase of my cycle for the test. I've had a nurse answer a personal call whilst an ultrasound wand was inside my vagina. I've had a fellow perform an SHG and endured the replacement/adjustment of the speculum 6 times - SIX....times during the procedure. I had one of my catheters removed by a male fellow that I had never met before without prior consult. It's been an adventure.

Doctor

Heather Hipp

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Emory University Reproductive Center

Atlanta

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Heather Hipp Emory University Reproductive Center

2018 - 2019, Unsuccessful

Age 41 - 42

4 IUI

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Male Factor

European

Income $100K - $199K

1st of 2 Docs

IVF With Other Docs

Donor Eggs With Other Docs

Neutral

Unsuccessful

Review of

Jennifer Kawwass Emory University Reproductive Center

Be prepared that she [Dr. Jennifer Kawwass] is available only for the consults and an occasional call. She isn’t available to do the procedures...I only did IUIs. But my regimen was clomid and then 1 day of injection of Gonadotropins And then the trigger shot (Ovidril). This is the regimen that we used 2x and that resulted in the pregnancy. But they key was banking sperm ahead of time. Which they didn’t tell us was an option until we were getting ready for the 3rd IUI. It was very frustrating. And I asked about it because I had read online it was a possibility.

Several [nurses at Emory University Reproductive Center] were wonderful, others I didn’t feel connected to...I wish they had told us about sperm banking sooner, also I think each doctor should have their own nurse (or maybe 2 that each take 1/2 the week) that responds to calls and portal emails. I felt like the care was very disjointed and you felt like a number. But on an individual level, I liked our doctor and a couple of the nurses that really seemed to care and remember me.

How was your experience with Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Jennifer Kawwass is very kind and has good bedside manner. I felt like she genuinely cared if we were successful or not. Even when we switched doctors she wanted us to come back and see her when we started our family. What I didn’t like was that the continuity for care for me and my husband was always different. I never felt like outside of her office people really knew who I was. And it wa s always someone different responding to emails on the portal or providing the actual care.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Be prepared that she is available only for the consults and an occasional call. She isn’t available to do the procedures.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Dr. Kawwass was wondeful. Kind thoughtful, but always truthful. I appreciated her honesty. What I didn’t like was that for the 4 IUIs over the course of more than a year, we only saw her 3 times, the initial consult, after our miscarriage (which had complications) and then ahead of our final IUI. We did talk on the phone twice. But every time I went Fir the IUI or the MVA after the miscarriage I saw a different doctor or fellow - and none were her. Also the patient portal I felt like there was inconsistency with the nurses responding. I recommend Dr. Kawwass personally, but overall was disappointed in the overall care and service at Emory.

Describe the protocols Jennifer Kawwass used in your cycles at Emory University Reproductive Center and their degree of success.

I only did IUIs. But my regimen was clomid and then 1 day of injection of Gonadotropins And then the trigger shot (Ovidril). This is the regimen that we used 2x and that resulted in the pregnancy. But they key was banking sperm ahead of time. Which they didn’t tell us was an option until we were getting ready for the 3rd IUI. It was very frustrating. And I asked about it because I had read online it was a possibility.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Emory University Reproductive Center.

Several were wonderful, others I didn’t feel connected to.

Describe your experience with Emory University Reproductive Center.

That you may not see your doctor for the actual procedures. And that you need to research things yourself ahead of time to ask questions and at times advocate for yourself. I really had to push for antibiotics when I felt like I was getting an infection as a result of a miscarriage that had left behind some tissue.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center.

It was minimal since it was just IUI and I has good insurance. I did have to follow-up repeatedly to get cost info for IVF and it only happened when we went back and had our final consultation with Dr.Kawwass - so she had set it up. The point person never responded to my personal emails or voicemails, but I know she had some family issues at that time. So I understood to some extent, but someone should have been responding on her behalf.

Describe Jennifer Kawwass's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Emory University Reproductive Center.

NA this hasn’t happened yet and is with another doctor.

What specific things went wrong at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Failed to call with results
Failed to convey critical information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Emory University Reproductive Center.

I wish they had told us about sperm banking sooner, also I think each doctor should have their own nurse (or maybe 2 that each take 1/2 the week) that responds to calls and portal emails. I felt like the care was very disjointed and you felt like a number. But on an individual level, I liked our doctor and a couple of the nurses that really seemed to care and remember me.

Doctor

Jennifer Kawwass

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Emory University Reproductive Center

Atlanta

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Jennifer Kawwass Emory University Reproductive Center

2015 - 2018, Unknown Success

Age 32 - 35

4 IUI

Male Factor

PCOS

Uterine Fibroids

Black or African-American

Doctor

Only Doc Seen

Neutral

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Jennifer Kawwass Emory University Reproductive Center

Dr. Kawwass is compassionate, caring and sensitive to the needs of patients experiencing trouble conceiving the child they desire... Initially we tried a low dose of letrozole for ovulation induction with timed intercourse for two cycles. That did not work so we then tried letrozole with IUI. Each cycle my husband's semen count was lower and lower which led her to refer him for evaluation too.

All of the nurses [at Emory] are caring and thorough. They respond promptly and answer questions well. They are on your team rooting for you to succeed throughout the process. They are an integral part of the care team and experience.... There was only one instance when the nurse contacted me to have tests performed that I had already completed earlier in the month. It seemed as if she and the doctor and on call team from the weekends had not been communicating about my case.

How was your experience with Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Dr. Kawwass is compassionate, caring and sensitive to the needs of patients experiencing trouble conceiving the child they desire. She is there when you need her. She helps you get through the tough times and celebrate the victories.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Come prepared with questions, goals and objectives. She is open and honest and will answer all of your questions to the best of her ability.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center?

She cared about my personal journey, getting to know both my husband and I and our goals and desires.

Describe the protocols Jennifer Kawwass used in your cycles at Emory University Reproductive Center and their degree of success.

Initially we tried a low dose of letrozole for ovulation induction with timed intercourse for two cycles. That did not work so we then tried letrozole with IUI. Each cycle my husband's semen count was lower and lower which led her to refer him for evaluation too. Now we are in the process of proceeding with IVF since four IUIs did not result in pregnancy.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Emory University Reproductive Center.

All of the nurses are caring and thorough. They respond promptly and answer questions well. They are on your team rooting for you to succeed throughout the process. They are an integral part of the care team and experience.

Describe your experience with Emory University Reproductive Center.

The clinic is strong in research, IVF and availability. They are able to get a substantial number of patients pregnant through treatment cycles. They are weak in availability sometimes on the weekends.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center.

My insurance does not cover most infertility costs so medications were not covered but ultrasounds and IUIs were. I had to pay for all medications and any other things that were part of the IVF process

Describe Jennifer Kawwass's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Emory University Reproductive Center.

Dr. Kawwass is very clear about the need for eSET and recommends it avidly throughout your care.

What specific things went wrong at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Failed to call with results
Provided conflicting information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Emory University Reproductive Center.

There was only one instance when the nurse contacted me to have tests performed that I had already completed earlier in the month. It seemed as if she and the doctor and on call team from the weekends had not been communicating about my case.

Doctor

Jennifer Kawwass

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Emory University Reproductive Center

Atlanta

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Jennifer Kawwass Emory University Reproductive Center

2019, Successful

Age 36

1 IVF

Endometriosis

Tubal Blockage

European

Income $100K - $199K

Nurse or HC Services

Only Doc Seen

Neutral

Successful

Review of

Heather Hipp Emory University Reproductive Center

Dr Hipp is very kind and passionate. She knows all her patients well and communicates well. The number of 5 day old embryos we ended up with were not what we envisioned (only 1) but it was transferred and we are pregnant. We liked Dr Hipp and would recommend her... My egg retreival meds were standard dosing at first but towards the end I was on max doses...I think if we did it again Dr Hipp said she would change the protocol

My egg retreival meds were standard dosing at first but towards the end I was on max doses [at Emory University Reproductive Center]. They were able to retrieve 11eggs, 7 were fertilized but only one made it to day 5 for transfer...Helen [nurse] was nice but not the best communicator and not great at explaining things...The clinic is really nice and clean. Labs and US are efficient and fast. The front desk staff are great. Getting appointments are easy. We have had some issues with Emory charging us extra (that was fixed) but then also still waiting for them to refund us for services we didnt do.

How was your experience with Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center?

As stated before, Dr Hipp is very kind and passionate. She knows all her patients well and communicates well. The number of 5 day old embryos we ended up with were not what we envisioned (only 1) but it was transferred and we are pregnant. We liked Dr Hipp and would recommend her.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Ask as many questions as you can. They will be answered.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center?

I never felt like a number. My questions were always answered quickly. Dr Hipp is very caring and passionate. She would even check in on me during her days off (Easter)

Describe the protocols Heather Hipp used in your cycles at Emory University Reproductive Center and their degree of success.

I was initially delayed a couple of weeks because they found a cyst and my period didnt start. My egg retreival meds were standard dosing at first but towards the end I was on max doses. They were able to retrieve 11eggs, 7 were fertilized but only one made it to day 5 for transfer. I think if we did it again Dr Hipp said she would change the protocol

Describe your experience with your nurse at Emory University Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Helen)

Helen was nice but not the best communicator and not great at explaining things.

Describe your experience with Emory University Reproductive Center.

The clinic is really nice and clean. Labs and US are efficient and fast. The front desk staff are great. Getting appointments are easy. We have had some issues with Emory charging us extra (that was fixed) but then also still waiting for them to refund us for services we didnt do.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center.

$17,000 to $20,000 including medications

Doctor

Heather Hipp

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Emory University Reproductive Center

Atlanta

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Heather Hipp Emory University Reproductive Center

2016 - 2017, Successful

Age 30 - 31

3 IUI

Male Factor

European

Income $50K - $99K

Teacher

Only Doc Seen

Neutral

Successful

Review of

Jessica Spencer Emory University Reproductive Center

She [Dr. Spencer] did a great job of explaining the process and answering our questions, and setting our plan. We did not see her very often though. She did not perform any of the check ups, just some of the procedures, and the initial consultations. ... I know that she adjusted my clomid with each attempt. ... She took the time to talk to us when formulating a plan, but we did not see her often. ...

There are long waits. You have to pay for parking after a short period, you do not see your doctor often. The reception staff [Emory University Reproductive Center] is not always discreet. The ultrasound technicians sometimes spoke before they should have, worrying me unnecessarily. There is free coffee/tea in the waiting room. ... I believe each IUI was around $1,000. ... It would have been nice to see the same nurses consistently, but they did a good job.

How was your experience with Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center?

She did a great job of explaining the process and answering our questions, and setting our plan. We did not see her very often though. She did not perform any of the check ups, just some of the procedures, and the initial consultations.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Write down your list of questions so you don't forget anything

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center?

She took the time to talk to us when formulating a plan, but we did not see her often.

Describe the protocols Jessica Spencer used in your cycles at Emory University Reproductive Center and their degree of success.

I don't remember specifics, but I know that she adjusted my clomid with each attempt.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Emory University Reproductive Center.

It would have been nice to see the same nurses consistently, but they did a good job.

Describe your experience with Emory University Reproductive Center.

There are long waits. You have to pay for parking after a short period, you do not see your doctor often. The reception staff is not always discreet. The ultrasound technicians sometimes spoke before they should have, worrying me unnecessarily. There is free coffee/tea in the waiting room.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center.

I believe each IUI was around $1,000.

Describe Jessica Spencer's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Emory University Reproductive Center.

We did not end up needing IVF, but during the consultation, she explained that she wanted to transfer a single embryo to reduce the risk of multiples.

What specific things went wrong at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Provided conflicting information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Emory University Reproductive Center.

I was told something worrisome from an ultrasound technician about the quality of my lining/follicles, but when the doctor called that afternoon (as is the procedure), they said there was nothing to worry about.

Doctor

Jessica Spencer

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Emory University Reproductive Center

Atlanta

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Jessica Spencer Emory University Reproductive Center

2019 - 2020, Unknown Success

Age 40 - 41

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Endometriosis

Tubal Blockage

European

Income $50K - $99K

2nd of 2 Docs

IVF With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Neutral

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Heather Hipp Emory University Reproductive Center

I love Dr. Hipp! So compassionate and a great communicator. She walked me through each step of my treatment and was always there when I needed her. If she was not available she would make sure someone great was there to take care of me...Dr. Hipp told me if we had multiple embryos that she would only transfer one at a time especially sense we did genetic testing...

Nursing staff [at Emory University Reproductive Center] was great but I did have one nurse in the beginning of my treatment that did forget to call me to let me know my results and my next steps of treatment...The women that take your blood could be a little more friendly but I love the women that did all my ultrasounds. Clinic is nice and clean! The women in the front office are very nice...I did 3 egg retrieval’s. We got 10 eggs out. The last retrieval was the hardest. I had to be put on a extra injection a growth hormone. My follicles were not growing as we wanted. We were able to make one good normal embryo. It is frozen and waiting for transfer.

How was your experience with Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center?

IVF Journey is hard! Be patient and don’t give up.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center?

I felt like a human with Dr. Hipp not a number.

Describe the protocols Heather Hipp used in your cycles at Emory University Reproductive Center and their degree of success.

I did 3 egg retrieval’s. We got 10 eggs out. The last retrieval was the hardest. I had to be put on a extra injection a growth hormone. My follicles were not growing as we wanted. We were able to make one good normal embryo. It is frozen and waiting for transfer.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Emory University Reproductive Center.

Nursing staff was great but I did have one nurse in the beginning of my treatment that did forget to call me to let me know my results and my next steps of treatment.

Describe your experience with Emory University Reproductive Center.

The women that take your blood could be a little more friendly but I love the women that did all my ultrasounds. Clinic is nice and clean! The women in the front office are very nice. I really like them a lot.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center.

35.000

Describe Heather Hipp's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Emory University Reproductive Center.

Dr. Hipp told me if we had multiple embryos that she would only transfer one at a time especially sense we did genetic testing. Which I was totally fine with.

What specific things went wrong at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Failed to call with results

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Emory University Reproductive Center.

One nurse forgot to call me with my results but other then that I love Emory!

Doctor

Heather Hipp

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Emory University Reproductive Center

Atlanta

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Heather Hipp Emory University Reproductive Center

2016 - 2017, Unknown Success

Age 31 - 32

1 IUI

PCOS

European

Income $100K - $199K

Teacher

2nd of 2 Docs

1 IUI With Other Docs

Neutral

Success w/ Doc Not sure

Review of

Heather Hipp Emory University Reproductive Center

Dr. Hipp is always very quick to respond to questions and remembers personal details of life...Dr. Hipp reached out to me each time I had questions. She personally called to check on me after my D&C....We began seeing Dr Hipp after a miscarriage from an IUI. She encouraged us to do an IUI again with metformin, follistim , and ovidrel and switched me to letrozole. I was then placed on progesterone suppositories and baby aspirin after the procedure.

[Emory] Strengths: cheaper than other clinics. Easily reachable Weaknesses: not always organized...Helen was my main nurse but others would sometimes call. Helen was always very encouraging...Medications sent to discount pharmacy so much cheaper than imagined. Injectibles ranged from $85-$270. IUI procedure around $700 Ultrasounds and visits covered by insurance...Dr. Hipp is always very quick to respond to questions and remembers personal details of life

How was your experience with Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Dr. Hipp reached out to me each time I had questions. She personally called to check on me after my D&C. After losing our baby before my birthday she made sure to be extremely kind and encouraged me to still have a good birthday. After we were in a car accident which I briefly mentioned she reached out to me to check in on us

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Never be afraid to email her questions

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Dr. Hipp is always very quick to respond to questions and remembers personal details of life

Describe the protocols Heather Hipp used in your cycles at Emory University Reproductive Center and their degree of success.

We began seeing Dr Hipp after a miscarriage from an IUI. She encouraged us to do an IUI again with metformin, follistim , and ovidrel and switched me to letrozole. I was then placed on progesterone suppositories and baby aspirin after the procedure. I am now on progesterone oil injections of 1ml

Describe your experience with your nurse at Emory University Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Helen)

Helen was my main nurse but others would sometimes call. Helen was always very encouraging

Describe your experience with Emory University Reproductive Center.

Strengths: cheaper than other clinics. Easily reachable Weaknesses: not always organized

Describe the costs associated with your care under Heather Hipp at Emory University Reproductive Center.

Medications sent to discount pharmacy so much cheaper than imagined. Injectibles ranged from $85-$270. IUI procedure around $700 Ultrasounds and visits covered by insurance

Doctor

Heather Hipp

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Emory University Reproductive Center

Atlanta

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Heather Hipp Emory University Reproductive Center

2017, Unsuccessful

Age 37

1 IUI

Endometriosis

Black or African-American

Income $100K - $199K

1st of 2 Docs

Doesn't Recommend

Neutral

Unsuccessful

Review of

Jessica Spencer Emory University Reproductive Center

She [Dr. Spencer] thoroughly went over my history with me to determine the best course of action. She let me know the chances of doing the IUI successfully were slim due to the fact that I have endometriosis. She let me know that IVF would probably be best to do but due to the cost I decided to try out the IUI ... The instructions I was given was specific to me and not generic. The fact that I have endometriosis was taken into consideration

What I like about Emory is that they were up front with the costs. I was not left in the dark not know what my bill would be. The only issue I had was waiting to get labs done, this took a very looooong time as the waiting area was always jam packed ... Emory clinic's approach is to do eSet ... The nurses were always nice and patient. They would always come back and reitierate what the doctor had gone over and also answer any additional questions

How was your experience with Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center?

She thoroughly went over my history with me to determine the best course of action. She let me know the chances of doing the IUI successfully were slim due to the fact that I have endometriosis. She let me know that IVF would probably be best to do but due to the cost I decided to try out the IUI

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Be patient and ask questions if things are not clear.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center?

The instructions I was given was specific to me and not generic. The fact that I have endometriosis was taken into consideration

Describe the protocols Jessica Spencer used in your cycles at Emory University Reproductive Center and their degree of success.

I was initially given Clomid but I asked for it to be changed to Femara due reviews of it not working for Endo patients. I believe I was also prescribed Follistism, can't remember what else.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Emory University Reproductive Center.

The nurses were always nice and patient. They would always come back and reitierate what the doctor had gone over and also answer any additional questions

Describe your experience with Emory University Reproductive Center.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center.

Total cost was about $4000. This was for consultation, full panel bloodwork, IUI

Describe Jessica Spencer's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Emory University Reproductive Center.

Emory clinic's approach is to do eSet

Doctor

Jessica Spencer

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Emory University Reproductive Center

Atlanta

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Jessica Spencer Emory University Reproductive Center

2017, Unsuccessful

Age 40

1 IUI

Endometriosis

Income $50K - $99K

Only Doc Seen

Neutral

Unsuccessful

Review of

Jennifer Kawwass Emory University Reproductive Center

Dr. Kawwass is good communicator and has warm bedside manners. She did explain the issue at hand and specified the risk associated with the process. Getting an appointment with the doctor is tough as she is quite busy....Clomid 24 Hr prior to process Injection in the stomach IUI... Clinic is quite neat and well maintained but is located in a sky scraper, the elevator of which is very annoying. The place is more expensive than other places so unless one is covered by Insurance one should look for other places

Clinic is quite neat and well maintained but is located in a sky scraper, the elevator of which is very annoying. The place is more expensive than other places so unless one is covered by Insurance one should look for other places... 840 for IUI... Dr. Kawwass is good communicator and has warm bedside manners. She did explain the issue at hand and specified the risk associated with the process. Getting an appointment with the doctor is tough as she is quite busy.

How was your experience with Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Ask Dr. Kawwass to perform the procedure herself rather than giving it to some nurse

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Her words were encouraging and she tried to calm me as well as explain the issue at hand.

Describe the protocols Jennifer Kawwass used in your cycles at Emory University Reproductive Center and their degree of success.

Clomid 24 Hr prior to process Injection in the stomach IUI

Describe your experience with Emory University Reproductive Center.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Jennifer Kawwass at Emory University Reproductive Center.

840 for IUI

Doctor

Jennifer Kawwass

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Emory University Reproductive Center

Atlanta

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Jennifer Kawwass Emory University Reproductive Center

2019, Successful

Age 23

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

European

Native American

Income $0 - $49K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Neutral

Successful

Review of

Jessica Spencer Emory University Reproductive Center

As a young terrified student with diminished ovarian reserve, I had millions of questions. Questions spanning to what my journey was going to be, and just a student how MUCH was this journey going to be. Dr. Spencer made sure to answer all of questions to her fullest ability and ensured I understood her fully. ... Take her bluntness with a grain of salt because she is only giving realistic expectations instead of painting an unobtainable picture for you. She tells you what you need to hear, not what you necessarily want to hear. ...

It’s [Emory University Repro Center] very clean, quiet, and all employees are very responsive and kind. They are very organized with all their paperwork and people’s roles. However, I have a question about billing and I am still waiting on a reply. ... They [nurses] were very nice and gave information about paperwork. Otherwise I did not spend much time with them.

How was your experience with Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center?

I had a very positive experience with Dr. Spencer. As a current student I came prepared with millions of questions spanning from the whole process, what my journey would be like, and how important finances are. She answered all questions to the best of her ability and made sure I understood her. She took all of my client specific concerns and addressed them realistically. I left fully understanding what my next steps needed to be.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center?

Take her bluntness with a grain of salt because she is only giving realistic expectations instead of painting an unobtainable picture for you. She tells you what you need to hear, not what you necessarily want to hear.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center?

As a young terrified student with diminished ovarian reserve, I had millions of questions. Questions spanning to what my journey was going to be, and just a student how MUCH was this journey going to be. Dr. Spencer made sure to answer all of questions to her fullest ability and ensured I understood her fully. She took all person specific details of my life and gave me realistic answers. I appreciated the client-centered approach she took to make me feel like a human.

Describe the protocols Jessica Spencer used in your cycles at Emory University Reproductive Center and their degree of success.

AMH testing and maintaining a close watch over me.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Emory University Reproductive Center.

They were very nice and gave information about paperwork. Otherwise I did not spend much time with them.

Describe your experience with Emory University Reproductive Center.

It’s very clean, quiet, and all employees are very responsive and kind. They are very organized with all their paperwork and people’s roles. However, I have a question about billing and I am still waiting on a reply.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Jessica Spencer at Emory University Reproductive Center.

Without insurance, freezing eggs is $10,000. Freezing embryos is $20,000.

Describe Jessica Spencer's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Emory University Reproductive Center.

N/A

Doctor

Jessica Spencer

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Emory University Reproductive Center

Atlanta

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Jessica Spencer Emory University Reproductive Center

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Emory University Reproductive Center

7 doctors work here

CDC Success Rates

Available Resources

This clinic has 1 office
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13 patient reviews filtered by:

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Learn from top medical experts

Emory University Reproductive Center

7 doctors work here

CDC Success Rates

Available Resources

This clinic has 1 officeVisit clinic website

13 patient reviews filtered by:

Learn from top medical experts

This clinic has 1 office
Visit clinic website