Reproductive Science Center
Available Resources
Genetic counseling
Acupuncture
Mental health counseling
Nutrition counseling
Administration of shots
Coordinating at-home nursing
Selling medication
Providing backup medication
Foster City
1098 Foster City Boulevard
Foster City, CA 94404
(888) 377-4483
Los Gatos
15066 Los Gatos Almaden Road
Los Gatos, CA 95032
(888) 377-4483
Orinda
89 Davis Road
Orinda, CA 94563
(888) 377-4483
San Ramon
100 Park Place
San Ramon, CA 94583
(888) 377-4483
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110 assessments
10
Age
37
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
Laura, the nurse and case manager [at Reproductive Science Center], was highly responsive and a good communicator. She would often call with information and then follow up the call with typed instructions via the patient portal, to which I could always refer. She showed empathy throughout the process and is clearly passionate about assisting patients with what can be a highly emotional process...We used a third-party guarantee/refund multi-cycle package that cost roughly $35,000 upfront but covered 2 cycles and would refund 50% if no baby. This was an easy process as all billing from the clinic then went through the company with which we were contracted for the multi-cycle package. Genetic testing, embryo shipping for genetic testing, and prescriptions were additional fees paid to other third parties.
+ Read more
Age
37
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
—
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Everyone at RSC Bay Area seems to communicate with one another and work well together. While my primary physician did not perform the procedures on me, the attending doctors knew my background and were compassionate and skilled.
When a mistake was made initially with my insurance, the clinic bent over backwards to correct it.
One possible issue for some patients is that all procedures (retrieval and transfer) are done at the San Ramon location. Also, all weekend monitoring visits are at the San Ramon location, which can be far for some patients to drive, especially if the monitoring appointment is at or before 8:00am. However, it is nice to know that eggs/embryos are not being transfered to different locations and that there is a centralized location for anything beyond "routine" visits.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Pittenger-Reid always did an excellent job of explaining the procedures and risks involved. She was warm and caring everytime my partner or I spoke with her, and went above and beyond to talk with us by phone and in-person when we had questions or concerns throughout the process.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Laura Rueckheim)
Laura, the nurse and case manager, was highly responsive and a good communicator. She would often call with information and then follow up the call with typed instructions via the patient portal, to which I could always refer. She showed empathy throughout the process and is clearly passionate about assisting patients with what can be a highly emotional process.
How was your experience with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Pittenger-Reid was very helpful in crafting an IVF strategy and explained things every step of the way. She was flexible when we didn't get as strong of a result as hoped for and tailored the protocol during the process. She is clearly passionate about her specialty and shows genuine empathy and compassion for her patients. I appreciate that she called me directly when there was news to share, rather than having my case manager simply type a response through the patient portal (which could've left questions unanswered). When it was clear that we needed to change course, Dr. Pittenger-Reid was proactive in coming up with another course of action. When other unanticipated things came up, she was communicative.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Don't be afraid to share your full medical history with Dr. Pittenger-Reid. She will work with you to find a tailored approach.
Describe the protocols Sara Pittenger-Reid used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
When the first round of IVF stimulation didn't produce as many eggs as hoped for, Dr. Pittenger-Reid was proactive in suggesting a new drug protocol for the second round. First round included Gonal-F, Menopur, and Ganirelix with Lupron for the trigger. Subsequent round included Micro-dose Lupron, Gonal-F, and Menopur, with Novarel as the trigger.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center.
We used a third-party guarantee/refund multi-cycle package that cost roughly $35,000 upfront but covered 2 cycles and would refund 50% if no baby. This was an easy process as all billing from the clinic then went through the company with which we were contracted for the multi-cycle package. Genetic testing, embryo shipping for genetic testing, and prescriptions were additional fees paid to other third parties.
Describe Sara Pittenger-Reid's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Dr. Pittenger-Reid said that she nearly always only recommends elective single embryo transfer, over transferring multiple embryos. This may differ with patient age, but if you are in your 30s, the clinic will likely only transfer one embryo. However, with the use of preimplantation genetic testing, the embryo that is selected for transfer is very likely to be healthy and to implant.
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10
Age
25
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
—
10
They [RSC] are patient and understanding and genuinely want what’s best for you. Sometimes I think communication can be better, I find myself playing phone tag with the dr. From time to time by thankfully they have a patient portal with messaging to avoid this a bit. .... This clinic is great with information and finding you the best treatment catered to your time/financial needs.
+ Read more
Age
25
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
—
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
This clinic is great with information and finding you the best treatment catered to your time/financial needs. They are patient and understanding and genuinely want what’s best for you. Sometimes I think communication can be better, I find myself playing phone tag with the dr. From time to time by thankfully they have a patient portal with messaging to avoid this a bit.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
From the moment you walk into the office you are treated with kindness and respect. My partner and I came in knowing very little about this process we were about to start and the Dr. made us feel very comfortable and we left our consultation with so much information and no pressure to do anything a certain way.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center.
Everyone we have had the pleasure of working with so far has been nothing short of amazing. From the kind hearted faces at the front desk, to our case manager and our dr’s. Everyone is kind, compassionate and knowledgeable.
How was your experience with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
During our visits we got to meet Dr. Rosenbluth and discuss our treatment. He partners with another Dr. who we talk to more over the phone. But together they have made this process as stress free as it can be, and have been patient with us while we go at our own pace and make decisions.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Don’t hesitate to ask questions or state your concerns. Dr is very knowledgeable and will address all that you need without hesitation.
Describe the protocols Evan Rosenbluth used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
Our fertility treatment that was selected was IUI insemination. I believe this was selected for my partner and I because the consultation gave great fertility results for my partner. Dr discussed other options and gave honest and helpful recommendations for each before the me was decided on. We have not yet started our process but are excited to in the near future.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center.
Payment has always been very straight forward. We received 50% off our consultation after attending a seminar hosted by RSC. And we were quoted just a bit under $900 for our fertility treatment we selected not including costs of donor sperm. Blood work and other required testing was offered to us at a reasonable price and recommendations for cost efficient labs were offered.
Describe Evan Rosenbluth's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
We are not using an embryo transfer.
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10
Age
30
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis
10
My case manager, Salina, has been excellent. I have spoken to her many time and sent her messages and she is always very quicken to respond and is very knowledgeable. ... I think the clinic [RSC] is very nice and everyone I come in contact with has been very helpful. The clinic is always very clean and presentable. It seems like it is very well organized and everyone works well together.
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Age
30
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Latino
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
I think the clinic is very nice and everyone I come in contact with has been very helpful. The clinic is always very clean and presentable. It seems like it is very well organized and everyone works well together.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Wachs took her time and throughly explained the treatment process with my husband and I. She took a very thorough medical history from both me and my husband. She showed us pictures and diagrams so that we would understand things better. She explained to us what our treatment plan was and what each medication she prescribed was and how to use take them. Every time I called or sent a portal message, I also received quick responses from both her and her team which I really appreciate.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Salina)
My case manager, Salina, has been excellent. I have spoken to her many time and sent her messages and she is always very quicken to respond and is very knowledgeable. She explains things very well so that I understand. She had been very pleasant to work with.
How was your experience with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Wachs really took the time to get to know my medical history and what is causing me to have infertility issues. I feel like she hasn’t skipped any steps with my medical care and she has tried to get to the roots of my issues. As a patient, I have really felt cared for by her and her team. She has gone above and beyond and answers every question I have and explains thing with great detail. Dr. Wach’s is very sympathetic with what I have gone through in the past and I did not feel like just another patient with her. I would definitely recommend her to anyone going through fertility issues.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
I would tell them that I trust Dr. Wach’s 100% and she will do everything she can to help you.
Describe the protocols Deborah Wachs used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
In my case, Dr. Wachs suggested 3 months of Letrozole to stimulate ovulation with a Trigger shot of Ovidrel. She also suggested timed intercourse for my husband and I. She set up a specific calendar for us so that I knew when to take the medication, inject the trigger shot and what days to have intercourse. She suggested that if I do not get pregnant within the next 3 cycles that we would move on to something else like IUI or IVF.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center.
I believe the first appointment was around $400 for consultation and and an ultrasound.
We also came back for genetic testing which was a blood test for both me and my husband which was close to $50 each to draw blood.
Describe Deborah Wachs's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
I have not spoken to my doctor about this.
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10
Age
27 - 30
Treated
2016 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
6 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
The clinic [Repro Sci Ctr] is good with scheduling and being clean. On a few rare occasions, I had a tech that did not deliver good service (not listening to me, not knowing anything about my file) but overall I was very happy with everyone I interacted with there. The billing was less clear, typically I'd pay up front but then sometimes I'd get a bill later. It was better with their previous computer system, and it's been a little more confusing since they switched. I have had little interaction with my financial counselor (by choice) but my interactions with him were very friendly and informative.
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Age
27 - 30
Treated
2016 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
6 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The clinic is good with scheduling and being clean. On a few rare occasions, I had a tech that did not deliver good service (not listening to me, not knowing anything about my file) but overall I was very happy with everyone I interacted with there. The billing was less clear, typically I'd pay up front but then sometimes I'd get a bill later. It was better with their previous computer system, and it's been a little more confusing since they switched. I have had little interaction with my financial counselor (by choice) but my interactions with him were very friendly and informative.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Hinckley was always very personable with me. She always cared, checked in to see if I had questions, and gave me clear information about what our next steps would be.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Shanda)
Shanda is so wonderful! She is so compassionate and I always felt like I was her top priority.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Provided conflicting information
How was your experience with Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
I loved having Dr. Hinckley as my doctor. She was always very nice, warm, and compassionate. I could hear the disappointment in her voice when she would call to tell me that I wasn't pregnant. She was always cheering for me and was optimistic month after month. I felt like she really cared about me.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
Be sure to ask questions if you have any. She will always explain whatever you want to know more about.
Describe the protocols Mary Hinckley used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I had done clomid with my OB/GYN before seeing Dr. Hinckley, so after all the testing we I think we tried Letrozole, and maybe even a combination of the two, along with ovulation tests to make sure we had the timing right. Then we graduated to IUIs, and then IUIs with Gonal-F injections. We thought that maybe my right tube was blocked, so we really tried to produce good follicles on the left. I had a few cycles (non-consecutive) where we didn't end up doing the IUI because I didn't develop on the left. I think we got up to doing 250 IU of Gonal-F for maybe 6 days or so during my cycle. Sometimes I would also take Ganirelix to hold off ovulation to give the follicles more time to develop while also taking Gonal-F. I typically would get one good follicle on the left, and one or more or on the right. Two times, I developed two good follicles on the left side. The first time I got pregnant (healthy baby resulted), and the second time was my most recent failed IUI. Dr. Hinckley has been as aggressive with dosing as I feel she can be, and we don't really have answers as to why I've only gotten pregnant once.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center.
My IUIs were about $900, and the meds ranged from $900 to $1200 depending on what we were doing.
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10
Age
33 - 36
Treated
2016 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IUI, 1 IVF, 2 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
One downside [at Reproductive Science Center] is that the procedures themselves are done in the San Ramon office which was far away for us...Everyone was always very friendly from the receptionist to the ultrasound technicians. Other doctors I've seen also seemed great. The online portal is convenient and the communication is speedy and efficient. I didn't get to experience the billing department as I had great insurance that covers everything. If that wasn't the case I'd check that to make sure they are okay (don't know).
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Age
33 - 36
Treated
2016 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Ashkenazi Jewish
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 IUI, 1 IVF, 2 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Everyone was always very friendly from the receptionist to the ultrasound technicians. Other doctors I've seen also seemed great. The online portal is convenient and the communication is speedy and efficient. I didn't get to experience the billing department as I had great insurance that covers everything. If that wasn't the case I'd check that to make sure they are okay (don't know). One downside is that the procedures themselves are done in the San Ramon office which was far away for us.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Doctor Homer really got to know us, what we care about, what we fear, what is important to us. He adapted his advice and communication style to match our particular case, personalities and needs which was very special and appreciated. It's clear that he truly cares.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Lindsay)
Lindsay was amazing. Great communicator, patient, knowledgeable and caring. Before that we had Judy that was also very knowledgeable and professional but her communication style didn't fit ours.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
- Provided conflicting information
How was your experience with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
We came to see doctor Homer after 1.5 years of trying to conceive. From the beginning he was positive yet direct (which we liked and I believe he recognized that at therefore made a point of doing that). He was very knowledgeable, personable and made the whole process feel much easier and even fun. All through the process he was patient, responded to our 1000 questions (we learned a lot about the topic) and was open to adjusting treatment according to outcomes and our preferences. I really couldn't have asked for anything better from him and feel so lucky we choose him. I'd give him 10/10 regardless, but the outcomes were also amazing - we have the coolest awesome daughter from our first round with doctor Homer, are now expecting our second child (the second normal embryo from our first cycle), and have 5 more normal frozen embryos from cycles 2&3.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
You won't regret it!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center.
All covered by the insurance
Describe Michael Vance Homer's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
He recommended eSET (with normal PGS tested embryos)
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10
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
Overall, extremely happy with the clinic, the staff, the communication, the treatment [at Reproductive Science Center]. Extremely professional. I can't recommend RSC enough. I have two other friends that have been there and have had nothing but great experiences. RSC is top of the line when it comes to fertility care...Amy [nurse] was a GEM. Truly, a saint. She too made me feel like I was her only patient. She's the most wonderful, caring human on the planet and let me talk to her / ask her / call her any time. She is fantastic.
+ Read more
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Business Executive
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Overall, extremely happy with the clinic, the staff, the communication, the treatment. Extremely professional. I can't recommend RSC enough. I have two other friends that have been there and have had nothing but great experiences. RSC is top of the line when it comes to fertility care.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Erin Lewis at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Lewis made me feel like I was her only patient, even though I know she has many. She treated me and my desire to have a baby with the utmost care -- she was both direct, and hopeful, both of which I appreciated.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Amy)
Amy was a GEM. Truly, a saint. She too made me feel like I was her only patient. She's the most wonderful, caring human on the planet and let me talk to her / ask her / call her any time. She is fantastic.
How was your experience with Erin Lewis at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Lewis was exceptional. I feel so fortunate to have had her. From day one, she was upfront with me about my options -- she was both candid and hopeful, and didn't beat around the bush to help me achieve my goals. I appreciated her disposition -- I'm a facts kind of gal, and that's what she gave me.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Erin Lewis at Reproductive Science Center?
Please choose her.
Describe the protocols Erin Lewis used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I have PCOS and we decided on IVF for me upfront. The only other option was injectables, but the risk of multiples was much higher and I wasn't interested in that. I was on birth control for 3 weeks before starting my stim meds; did the stim meds for about 12 days, going in every other day for monitoring; and then a retrieval. I was expecting ~ 15-20 eggs retrieved; however, I didn't respond well to the trigger shot. Dr. Lewis chose the trigger shot because I was at higher risk of OHSS (very dangerous) due to PCOS and this one was less intense. I was disappointed to have only had 9 eggs retrieved, but it seems the other eggs were just poor quality and never released from the follicles. But, it's quality over quantity and I ended up with 3 PGS-tested embryos and no major side effects from the retrieval.
I took a few weeks break and then started treatment again to prep for the implantation. I took a combination of estradiol orally and vaginally and then continued it just orally while starting vaginal progesterone and the progesterone in oil shots ~ 6 days before my transfer. 9 days later I found out I was pregnant, and I am now 26 weeks along. I continued on the progesterone until ~ week 10.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Erin Lewis at Reproductive Science Center.
My insurance covered 100% of my treatment, but I believe IVF would have been ~ $15,000
Describe Erin Lewis's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
It wasn't even question that we would only do one.
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10
Age
32 - 34
Treated
2017 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
5 IUI
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
About $600 per IUI cycle [at Reproductive Science Center]...Nice warm environment, quality staff, good support online and offline, well connected technology-wise. I also like that they are connected with natural practitioners such as acupuncturists. Nice warm environment, quality staff, good support online and offline, well connected technology-wise. I also like that they are connected with natural practitioners such as acupuncturists.
+ Read more
Age
32 - 34
Treated
2017 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Black or African-American
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
5 IUI
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Nice warm environment, quality staff, good support online and offline, well connected technology-wise. I also like that they are connected with natural practitioners such as acupuncturists.
Nice warm environment, quality staff, good support online and offline, well connected technology-wise. I also like that they are connected with natural practitioners such as acupuncturists.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Homer is naturally warm and friendly. He always remembers details about my history and care, and also makes sure to explain everything clearly so I am confortable with the course of action taken.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Lindsay Smith)
Lindsay my case manager is fenomenal. She is very responsive, knowledgeable and friendly. The rest of the staff at the los Gatos office is very professional and friendly as well. I had a negative experience at the San Ramon office because the nurse gave me the wrong timing to administer my trigger shot. This possible caused that cycle to fail. I can never know for sure.
How was your experience with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
I am very satisfied with my experience with Dr. Homer. He never pushed me to go beyond my comfort level, and unlike some doctors he is not too aggressive in his treatment method. I came in ready for IVF, but he convinced me to try IUI 1 more time, with a different medication than I was using with my previous doctor. We were successful at the first try.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Definitely do your homework before you see him. He explains everything in detail but it's always best to be educated in the subject prior to seeing any doctor.
Describe the protocols Michael Vance Homer used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
He switched me from Clomid to Femara. I have PCOS and had previously had 4 IUIs with another doctor (not from RSC) that failed. He had me and my husband do the genetic testing to make sure there were no other underlying issues, then did a sperm count for my husband. After the IUI, I was using progesterone supplements until I got my positive result.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center.
About $600 per IUI cycle.
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8
Age
38
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Uterine Fibroids
8
Overall the clinic [RSC] is organized and folks are customer oriented. During monitoring, I wish I could have the same ultrasound tech as sometimes that part can feel very robotic and impersonal. The cost of IVF is insane and I wish my clinic provided more discounts to self-pay patients....Jennifer Patterson is the best. She's quick to respond, empathetic and caring when you need an extra nudge to keep going and hang in there, and super organized. She's what's made this experience doable.
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Age
38
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Operations
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Uterine Fibroids
8
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Overall the clinic is organized and folks are customer oriented. During monitoring, I wish I could have the same ultrasound tech as sometimes that part can feel very robotic and impersonal. The cost of IVF is insane and I wish my clinic provided more discounts to self-pay patients. I also wish they had told me that my first round could be a total fail and to treat it like part of my initial consultation and diagnosis. I didn't hear that until after the fact and wish they had better managed my expectations.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Jennifer Patterson - she's wonderful! )
Jennifer Patterson is the best. She's quick to respond, empathetic and caring when you need an extra nudge to keep going and hang in there, and super organized. She's what's made this experience doable.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
How was your experience with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Rosenbluth was caring, compassionate, and a clear communicator. When our cycle was in jeopardy of being cancelled he made himself available to answer our questions and talk through potential options. Because Dr. Rosenbluth does this everyday sometimes I think he (and other providers) can forget that we've never done before and don't always know what to ask. We are relying on them to tell us what we need to know and consider.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Be prepared not to see or hear from him very often. You spend a lot more time communicating with your nurse case managers and others. Make sure you come with lots of questions.
Describe the protocols Evan Rosenbluth used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
typical low ovarian reserve (low AMH) protocol for first round - poor response, almost cancelled cycle and then Hail Mary retrieval after extra days of meds; retrieved 5 eggs, 2 fertilized; 1 made it to day 5 blast; was abnormal when PGS tested. :(
Second round starts this month, mid-luteal estrace protocol to hopefully prime my system to respond better. fingers crossed.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center.
Initial visit $260 (included initial consultation and genetic screen bloodwork; initial consultation fee was discounted 50% because we attended "meet the doctor" event; Initial round fees includes monitoring and egg retrieval = $16,098; genetic testing panel for husband and I = $250/pp; PGS testing fees (multi cycle plan) = $2575; stim medications all self pay = $5,000
Describe Evan Rosenbluth's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Dr. Rosenbluth prefers to do single embryo transfer. We haven't had any to transfer yet but when we do, I believe he will advocate for one at a time.
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10
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
PCOS, Unexplained
10
We have had a great experience overall with this facility [Reproductive Science Center]. Something I think would be super helpful would be if we, as patients, we could see our balance/payments etc. online. There doesn't seem to be anywhere that we can see this information. I have had issues with loan funds being delayed when they are distributed to the facility, thus making it look like I owe fees still at the time of appointment which is embarrassing because it appears I am not paying my bill but in turn it's just the loan funds were not "reconciled" by the facility by the day I went in for my first appointment.
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Age
32 - 33
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Accountant
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
PCOS, Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
We have had a great experience overall with this facility. Something I think would be super helpful would be if we, as patients, we could see our balance/payments etc. online. There doesn't seem to be anywhere that we can see this information. I have had issues with loan funds being delayed when they are distributed to the facility, thus making it look like I owe fees still at the time of appointment which is embarrassing because it appears I am not paying my bill but in turn it's just the loan funds were not "reconciled" by the facility by the day I went in for my first appointment. I do like that everyone knows us by name and is SO friendly and accommodating along the way!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Hinckley has always been very forthcoming with information, always makes an effort to listen to our thoughts and concerns and goes above and beyond to show compassion and help us to understand the entire process.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Shanda)
We had communication issues with our first case manager (Frankie), however as soon as Dr. Hinckley heard my concerns she offered to change me to another "more experienced" case manager right away. I now have Shanda and she has been nothing short of amazing. She called me THE day she was assigned to our case and has made us feel so comfortable and like we are her top priority all the time. She is very realistic and gives me honest answers to all questions and always gives extra details so we feel like we know the process inside and out the whole way through.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Failed to call with results
- Provided conflicting information
How was your experience with Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
I wholeheartedly respect Dr. Hinckley and respect her medical advice 100%. She has been nothing but compassionate, caring & encouraging throughout our journey thus far. I greatly appreciate that she has not pushed us to move to a more aggressive treatment yet and that she is completely realistic with all medical advice she gives according to the situation my husband and I are in. She went above and beyond when we were unsatisfied with our case manager in order to make us feel supported and comfortable and was quick to change us to a different case manager as soon as she heard that we had concerns.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
Don't be embarrassed to ask questions - she is a wealth of knowledge and will always work to get you the most thorough information in order to help you understand the situation you are in the and options that you have based on your personal health factors.
Describe the protocols Mary Hinckley used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
We are trying first of all to get pregnant with Letrozole (femara) pills + ovidrel trigger shot, then IUI. We have not chosen to get more aggressive as of yet. I currently am taking 5mg Letrozole once a day on cycle days 3-7. We have been flexible with the day of my first ultrasound as we are trying to find the correct timing of ovulation since my cycle has been so irregular in the past.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center.
IUI is $1285 per cycle, then medications have been about $200 on top of that.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
Age
39
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
The clinic [Reproductive Science Center] is efficient and quick. The front desk staff are super nice. The phlebotomists are hit or miss. I’m an easy stick too. The sonographers aren’t great with their bedside manner, except Casia (sp?). She’s the absolute best at imaging and patient care. ... Kayla [nurse] was very compassionate but didn’t seem knowledgeable. Her phone calls left a lot to be desired. Her emails were too long and it seemed like she may not be used to caring for someone that is brand new to IVF.
+ Read more
Age
39
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The clinic is efficient and quick. The front desk staff are super nice. The phlebotomists are hit or miss. I’m an easy stick too. The sonographers aren’t great with their bedside manner, except Casia (sp?). She’s the absolute best at imaging and patient care.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
He calls with updates personally.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Kayla)
Kayla was very compassionate but didn’t seem knowledgeable. Her phone calls left a lot to be desired. Her emails were too long and it seemed like she may not be used to caring for someone that is brand new to IVF. Example of a phone call- I asked her what Estrace was and why I would be taking it. Her response was that it produces estrogen, like my body does at some point.
How was your experience with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
He’s very honest and open in all his communication. He explains every step thoroughly and allows my husband and I to make our own decisions with all the facts on the table.
I have diminished ovarian reserve and Dr Weckstein has educated me on what that means for our journey. He also remains positive and encouraging even when delivering “bad” news. I appreciate his candor.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Bring a list of preprepared questions to the consultation. Take lots of notes on each phone call as well.
Describe the protocols Louis Weckstein used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I’m still in my first cycle. He started me off with Estrace for two weeks and testosterone added on the second week. My cycle meds are Gonal F 300, Menopur 150 (first week) and added in Cetrotide and HGH on the second week. Triggering today for retrieval on Friday. Expecting 1-3 eggs total (6 follicles and I have diminished ovarian reserve).
Describe the costs associated with your care under Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center.
10-20k
Describe Louis Weckstein's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
He proposed elective single transfers only. Multiples aren’t encouraged due to stress and complications with multiple pregnancies.
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6
Age
38 - 39
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
6
RSC is a well run machine. There won’t be too many blatantly unprofessional scenarios. But like most establishments, there is a patronizing undertone. I still haven’t seen bills from my past cycle. So I don’t know if I overpaid or have a balance going into cycle 2. I only get to see the doctor a view times. The vast majority of interactions is with the nurse coordinator. ... Nobody informed me of chanfebin drug protocol for second stim cycle until I noticed it in the prescription and asked them about it. ...
+ Read more
Age
38 - 39
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
East Asian
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
6
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
RSC is a well run machine. There won’t be too many blatantly unprofessional scenarios. But like most establishments, there is a patronizing undertone. I still haven’t seen bills from my past cycle. So I don’t know if I overpaid or have a balance going into cycle 2. I only get to see the doctor a view times. The vast majority of interactions is with the nurse coordinator.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
I felt like a human when 1) the doctor made it a point to answer all my questions without hurrying me along. I felt like a number because 1) I’ve seen the doctor exactly 4 times for an entire cycle of Egg retrieval, frozen embryo transfer and anembryonic gestation leading to miscarriage. Both the FET and polyectomy were done with other doctors due to scheduling. 2) Chasing after bloodwork results. 3) the patronizing manner in which my meds were changed for the 2nd cycle without consulting me and the nurse coordinator using a decade old article to fob me off when I’d read NIH papers from the past few years that clearly refute the article.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Laura)
I had to be on top of things. Otherwise, things, especially scheduling, would fall through the cracks.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
How was your experience with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Good communicator and very compassionate and delicate bedside manner, which is very much appreciated. Not rigorous in terms providing data to back up protocol adjustments. Had not read the latest NIH papers regarding one of the additions to my stim cycle.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Do your own homework. You won’t be told the ugly naked truth and unless you do your own homework, you won’t know what questions to ask and might be surprised by the outcome.
Describe the protocols Sara Pittenger-Reid used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
GonalF, Menopur, Cetrotide, Lupron trigger. About par in terms of result. 2nd cycle, up the GonalF dosage.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center.
Egg retrieval $5,000
Frozen embryo transfer $3,000
Drugs: $3,800
Describe Sara Pittenger-Reid's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
eSET highly recommended.
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3
Age
39
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
3
Multiple locations and obviously very hardworking staff. I enjoyed the support staff, always. However, they're hard to get ahold of sometimes. ... Emails to billing can languish for weeks before they actually get you the thing they said they would. FYI I have heard there are other, more 'pushy' doctors at RSC that I would probably have enjoyed more. ... Marlen [nurse] is a lovely and kind person, but her emails often rambled and left me confused.
+ Read more
Age
39
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
3
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Multiple locations and obviously very hardworking staff. I enjoyed the support staff, always.
However, they're hard to get ahold of sometimes. Once, a nurse called me with instructions the day before my retrieval and when I called back with a follow-up question, no one returned my call. Emails to billing can languish for weeks before they actually get you the thing they said they would.
FYI I have heard there are other, more 'pushy' doctors at RSC that I would probably have enjoyed more.
One last thing: We found her indifference to doing a dna fragmentation test on my husband's sperm with a known varicocele ridiculous. Some other clinics say it's a freaking mandatory test, especially with a varicocele. An SA test only shows how the sperm *looks*, not how it is, and it was this general indifference and lack of knowledge about the grading of my eggs pre-ICSI (she hadn't even checked before our wtf conversation, had no idea if I had an egg quality issue) that sent us right out the door.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Reid is extremely personable and kind.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Marlen)
Marlen is a lovely and kind person, but her emails often rambled and left me confused. Again, we're a pretty Type A couple when in IVF, we've learned-- and her emails kind of wandered. Same with phone calls. At the end of them I was always like: wait, so what do you need again?
Really all I wanted was a bulleted list of things to do. Later, Marlen was out on vacation and a super baller detailed nurse (I think named Lauren) filled in and she was much more my speed. If you go here, ask for Lauren!
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Failed to call with results
How was your experience with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Reid is wonderful to talk to and I bet makes a great friend. However, as a doctor, we found her to be almost lazy in her approach. She didn't know her own stats in terms of success, couldn't point us to specific reasons for decisions beyond "usually" and "probably fine..." My partner is a scientist and Dr. Reid made us realize what we wanted was an active, curious doctor who revels in data and is up on the latest research. If that's you, steer clear of Dr. Reid. However, if you're the sort who doesn't want to know reasons for things or dive into information, she'd be great.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
I'd say I'd only go to her for IUI, and not if you're curious about potential diagnostic issues that haven't been discovered yet.
Describe the protocols Sara Pittenger-Reid used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
antagonist protocol with Gonal F and Menopur for stimming- and a fairly high does, I think Menopur was 450. Cetrotide for hanging onto eggs and a regular trigger.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center.
A cycle was $15,000 plus $4000 for meds. They've just raised their prices.
Describe Sara Pittenger-Reid's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
She preferred single transfer, but we never got that far as our cycle resulted in just one embryo.
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5
Age
35
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis
5
A few times I was told [by staff at Reproductive Science Center] that I would be contacted by the end of the day with instructions about time sensitive meds, and was never called. I ended up have to call my nurse coordinator off hours to get instructions. I also sent them a medical release waiver when I changed providers and they never sent over my medical records...Clinic is nice and new with a comfortable waiting area. It was a peaceful environment but several team members were borderline rude. One of the phlebotomists seemed irritated frequently. The US techs were really nice and friendly.
+ Read more
Age
35
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 3 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis
5
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Clinic is nice and new with a comfortable waiting area. It was a peaceful environment but several team members were borderline rude. One of the phlebotomists seemed irritated frequently. The US techs were really nice and friendly.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
When we met with Dr Reid we felt very supported and able to have a candid conversation. She took her time and did not rush us. She seemed very down to earth and easy to relate to. Once treatment started we didn’t see her or hear from her again until my 5th “not pregnant” pregnancy test. We only dealt with our nurse coordinator and office staff after our initial consult.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Laura Ruckheim)
Laura seemed organized but she wasn’t always patient with me. I felt like she interrupted me frequently and sometimes gave me an attitude.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Failed to call with results
- Failed to send your chart to another clinic
- Failed to convey critical information
How was your experience with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Reid, individually was awesome. She seemed really genuine and easy-going. She listened to us and validated our concerns. I felt like she was invested in us and truly wanted to see us succeed. I wish that I loved the rest of her office staff as much as I enjoyed her.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
I really loved working with Dr Reid, it was just her support staff that I didn’t really trust. The communication was poor and several times I was told “well call you by the end of the day with instructions for meds tonight” and I didn’t get a call, so missed instructions for time sensitive meds. So you must be proactive with the support staff, call them, don’t wait for them to call you.
Describe the protocols Sara Pittenger-Reid used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
We did 3 induced ovulation and 2 IUIs using letrazole and an Hcg trigger shot.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center.
My insurance covered diagnostics. I think an induced ovulation cycle was about $200 and and IUI was about $800
Describe Sara Pittenger-Reid's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Mandatory
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6
Age
42 - 43
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
6 IUI, 5 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
6
My embryos did not make it to Day 3 for a fresh transfer [at Reproductive Science Center]...[the staff is] wonderful to work with. I did have some issues with getting the financial information for the treatment relayed to me in a timely manner for whatever reason but they did rectify that within a reasonable time after a few phone calls were made...probably has their set of treatment protocols in place and there's no deviation so if it doesn't work within the expected treatment parameters then you immediately move on to implementing other fertility aids to get a person pregnant (donor eggs/surrogacy).
+ Read more
Age
42 - 43
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
East Asian
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 6 Docs
Treatment
6 IUI, 5 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
6
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
I understand that RSC has their set of treatment protocols in place and there's no deviation so if it doesn't work within the expected treatment parameters then you immediately move on to implementing other fertility aids to get a person pregnant (donor eggs/surrogacy). I felt a bit deflated after the conversation I had with my Dr regarding the results of my IVF treatment (my embryos did not make it for a 3 day transfer) and decided I needed to find another Dr or Clinic that would do what they could to continue aiding me in my attempts to get pregnant and bring home a baby using my own eggs. I understand everyone's experience and journey is different. I truly felt that I was going to have a negative impact on RCS's success numbers. While I understand the Clinic does want to help me conceive a child, they want to promote all the options available to do it even if it's not what I was interested in. I will say that the RSC staff was been wonderful to work with. I did have some issues with getting the financial information for the treatment relayed to me in a timely manner for whatever reason but they did rectify that within a reasonable time after a few phone calls were made.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
I got the feeling that my 42 year old status wasn't going to help RSC with their success stats. While I absolutely understand my age being a huge factor in my ability to have a perfect IVF outcome right off the back, I didn't think that after only 1 IVF attempt that I'd already need to start looking at donor eggs. This is immediately what my Dr started discussing with me as my only option for success. I understand that the fertility Dr's have more experience and have seen more patients/results that would warrant bringing up this option but I only went through 1 IVF cycle. When I hear my Dr say that "he's nervous/afraid" another cycle would yield the same unfortunate results or that the Dr already expects another failed outcome, it makes me lose faith in my Dr and the process. I understand that RSC probably has their set of treatment protocols in place and there's no deviation so if it doesn't work within the expected treatment parameters then you immediately move on to implementing other fertility aids to get a person pregnant (donor eggs/surrogacy).
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
I felt that I was very well taken care of by the nursing staff. They were incredibly supportive throughout the entire process.
How was your experience with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
I appreciate that the Dr was very candid about my chances but I felt that the Dr/Clinic should continue to try and work with their client and not immediately push for the "sure" thing (i.e. egg donors). The Dr was helpful in explaining the IVF process, statistics, and possible expectations but ultimately I felt that the Dr/Clinic was discouraging me from continuing with my own eggs because they felt I would end up with the same outcome as my first which ended in no viable embryos.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
He is a good Dr and very forthright with information and responsive. I believe that if you are an older patient and still looking to use your own eggs that you would be better off going to another clinic.
Describe the protocols Evan Rosenbluth used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
My treatment protocol was as follows:
Prenatal vitamin daily
Cetrotide (Antagonist 0.25 mg)
FSH (Gonal F) 300 units
Menopur 150 units
Trigger: Lupron 4 mg
I did not have any adverse reactions to the medications other than the expected bloating.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center.
The cost of my treatment was approximately:
$15,900.00 for RSC services and approximately $2000.00 in medication.
Describe Evan Rosenbluth's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
My embryos did not make it to Day 3 for a fresh transfer.
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10
Age
34 - 40
Treated
2012 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Male Factor
10
I feel they [Reproductive Science Center] are very welcoming & they knew me by my first name which made me feel special. ... I hardly had to wait & I loved my ultrasound techs. They were so knowledgeable & nice. ... had a few case manager nurses on two separate cases during my time there ... My coordinators communicated mostly by email which was convenient. There were a few organization issues I had involving my medications but I knew other people to involve to get it handled.
+ Read more
Age
34 - 40
Treated
2012 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 3 Docs
Treatment
3 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Male Factor
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Strengths- I feel they are very welcoming & they knew me by my first name which made me feel special. I didn’t find I had any problems other than small technical things like with my medication order that my case manager was responsible for.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
He has gentle warm ness & is very personable. He also talks with straightforward statistics & seems to give reasonable expectations.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: I can’t remember! I feel so bad.)
I had a few case manager nurses on two separate cases during my time there . The first was trying for our first baby. The second was trying for our second baby. I have to say the staff there is excellent & welcoming. My coordinators communicated mostly by email which was convenient. There were a few organization issues I had involving my medications but I knew other people to involve to get it handled.
How was your experience with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
He’s very informative & thorough. I always felt hopeful but at the same time I was given reasonable expectations. He’s very easy to talk to & I never felt intimidated by him. Though I have to say that his father passed away & he had to leave town during my treatment & he made sure that he called me to tell me that another doctor will he managing me during this time. I wouldn’t expected anybody going through this to feel they have to call their patients during such a terrible time but he did. Even during such a difficult personal time, he was thinking about his patients. I’ll never forget that.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Be prepared to hear numbers & statistics. He knows a lot of those but for good reason.
Describe the protocols Louis Weckstein used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I can’t remember all the drugs I got or protocols. But w/my daughter she was a first time , 5day blast fresh transfer. I think I was on Lupron . To conceive my son, I went through 2 egg retrieval’s & the last one I remember he said they were throwing the kitchen sink at me because the first egg retrieval I didn’t have success, I was older as well & low ovarian reserve. I remember having to take testosterone which I thought was strange. But it worked. I had 2 blastocysts & one was my son.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Reproductive Science Center.
Pretty efficient. I hardly had to wait & I loved my ultrasound techs. They were so knowledgeable & nice.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center.
We paid out of pocket except for a few meds.
Describe Louis Weckstein's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
I did one 2-embryo frozen transfer & he said that multiple embryo transfers doesn’t necessarily increase chances just increase chance of multiples. I appreciated his opinion that it was reasonable.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
8
Age
33
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
5 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
8
They [Reproductive Science Center] were always warm and understanding whenever I got bad news, and they always had chocolate and tissues waiting. ... The clinic's phone number goes to the main office in San Ramon, so sometimes communication was a bit difficult. But the office staff was ALWAYS kind. ...Selina [nurse] was excellent with her communication. If I emailed her in the portal, I could expect a prompt response every time. She was very thorough and I appreciated that.
+ Read more
Age
33
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European, Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
5 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
8
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The clinic's phone number goes to the main office in San Ramon, so sometimes communication was a bit difficult. But the office staff was ALWAYS kind. They were always warm and understanding whenever I got bad news, and they always had chocolate and tissues waiting.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Wachs was so kind. She was understanding, and warm. I don't believe that our negative outcome had anything to do with the care we received.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Selina)
Selina was excellent with her communication. If I emailed her in the portal, I could expect a prompt response every time. She was very thorough and I appreciated that.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Failed to send your chart to another clinic
How was your experience with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
She was very warm and welcoming. She seemed to be very empathetic about our situation, and always had a smile on her face. She explained everything thoroughly, and seemed optimistic about our treatments.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
If you want a kind, warm doctor, she is the one to go to.
Describe the protocols Deborah Wachs used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
My first and second IUI's had exactly the same protocol. My lining thinned out for the third one, so they added Estrace into the mix. It was explained to me that it helped thicken the lining, but then the lining was never rechecked. The 4th IUI I used progesterone suppositories but I never knew why. I understand it was to aid in implantation, but they never drew my progesterone levels to see if that was necessary. None of my IUI's resulted in any kind of pregnancy.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center.
None of our treatments were covered by insurance so it was rather expensive. Every IUI was $1200 out of pocket. Our IVF quote was quite high as well, but that could also be the Bay Area.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
Age
41
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
—
10
Monitoring was my only issue with this clinic [Reproductive Science Center]. .... I understand they had to do daily monitoring but I wish it could've been done somewhere else close to home. Luckily, some of those days also fell on weekends and that was nice. Some of the ladies doing the ultrasounds were a little rough and I voiced that to someone. ... The gal at the desk always greeted me by first name.
+ Read more
Age
41
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Latino
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
—
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The front desk team is awesome! The gal at the desk always greeted me by first name. I was impressed! Every single person I ever encountered in that clinic was kind and sweet. Communication is on point at this clinic! Very organized. It was a breath of fresh air in comparison to our last clinic. I wouldn't change a thing. I love this clinic!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Erin Lewis at Reproductive Science Center?
She was very kind and took her time explaining everything to us from day 1. She spoke to us in a manner that made us feel comfortable with her and we felt we could ask anything. Things were never rushed. It was honestly like talking to a friend which made this very stressful process a little easier. She encouraged us to call or email her anytime. She was very good about taking phone calls and returning phone calls. We loved her.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Valeri and Paula )
I LOVE THE NURSING STAFF! Valeri and Paula are best! They both went above and beyond with any and all requests. I had some spotting during early pregnancy and every time i called or emailed they reassured me it was normal. I worked a little more with Valeri. Both nurses are very efficient and quick to respond to any and all questions whether by phone or email. Both ladies called and checked on me when I informed them my pregnancy was coming to an end.
How was your experience with Erin Lewis at Reproductive Science Center?
As mentioned before, from day 1 she made us feel comfortable. She is very kind and thorough when explaining things to us. Things are never rushed when its your time with her. Very easy to talk too!!! Helps you make hard decisions in terms of providing clarity.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Erin Lewis at Reproductive Science Center?
Enjoy! She's great!
Describe the protocols Erin Lewis used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
After my egg retrieval on May 2018 I was released to go home. The nurse in charge of me kept saying I was pale but let me go anyways. On our 3 hour drive back home we stopped mid way to use the bathroom. I was laying in the back seat the whole time since I left the clinic. The minute I got up I nearly fainted and started sweating profusely! My husband called the clinic and the doctor who did my egg retrieval recommended I go to the nearest ER. Turns out I was bleeding internally...my ovaries never cauterized not sure if that is the right term. The OB doctor in charge discussed emergency exploratory surgery to stop the bleeding. Dr. Erin Lewis immediately made contact with the hospital and soon after I got my own room. She was in contact with the OB on staff and recommended we leave me as is and wait it out a bit as sometimes these things happen after egg retrieval. She also called my husband and explained what was happening and what the next step was. She also called and checked on me a few times over that weekend and gave me her cell number to call or text if I needed. She was always very involved through out the entire process and we appreciated that so much!
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Reproductive Science Center.
Monitoring was my only issue with this clinic. Because we drove from so far away the appointments had to be early to avoid traffic or sometimes they scheduled me late. I understand they had to do daily monitoring but I wish it could've been done somewhere else close to home. Luckily, some of those days also fell on weekends and that was nice. Some of the ladies doing the ultrasounds were a little rough and I voiced that to someone.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Erin Lewis at Reproductive Science Center.
We had insurance coverage with this cycle. Out of pocket costs with the clinic alone was maybe $3,500...not completely sure. All other costs and fees were associated with labs and meds etc...
Describe Erin Lewis's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
no comments.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
Age
35 - 37
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 IUI, 2 IVF, Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
Appointments and communication always ran very smoothly, thanks largely to their [RSC] system of really great coordinators. The only downside is the billing department. I didn’t have much contact with them, but the few interactions I had were pretty disappointing. ... I had to use the on-call service a couple times for emergency meds or questions and they always helped me quickly. ... I rarely had to wait more than a few minutes and the [monitoring] appointments were always done quickly.
+ Read more
Age
35 - 37
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, 2 IVF, Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
This clinic is large and the medical side is well organized. They have wonderful doctors (a few stood in to do my transfers when Dr. Hinckley was unavailable) and there is always one on call. I had to use the on-call service a couple times for emergency meds or questions and they always helped me quickly. Appointments and communication always ran very smoothly, thanks largely to their system of really great coordinators.
The only downside is the billing department. I didn’t have much contact with them, but the few interactions I had were pretty disappointing. For example, I had to get my coordinator involved at one point in order to get a call back from them. Another time, without calling, they sent a letter threatening collections over a bill that was a few hundred dollars (because my card/autopay had been canceled without my realizing it), which was incredibly poor taste and insulting (after having spent tens of thousands of dollars, they didn’t have the courtesy to call). Apparently they were undergoing a system change and their policy is to call, so hopefully that won’t happen to anyone else. Still, the medical care was so good that I would tolerate the billing department.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
In addition to having a caring and responsive case manager, Dr. Hinckley often called me personally to discuss results and treatment planning. She was detailed and matter-of-fact in her explanations while still being sensitive to my difficult situation.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Shanda Mildon )
My coordinator Shanda was kind, organized and knowledgeable. Great communication- she always responded quickly, and substitutes were arranged if she was out of the office. In addition, I received good care from the rest of the nursing staff.
How was your experience with Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
My initial choosing of a clinician was random, and I am so glad I ended up with Dr. Hinckley. She is everything I want in a doctor: compassionate, a good communicator, and most importantly, smart as a whip and knows her research.
My care under her practice continued for about 2 years before resulting in an almost-successful. In the end, it turns out that I have a rare immunological disorder that was only discovered due to stillbirth. There is no way anyone can have diagnosed it beforehand, and is likely related to my “unexplained” difficulty conceiving.
All that is to say, I got to know Dr. Hinckley very well in that time and trust her without reservations. She was thoughtfully involved in my care every step of the way, respectfully took my ideas and opinions into account, and adjusted my care as we went along in what I thought was an appropriate and evidence-based manner.
Overall a phenomenal doctor.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
This would apply to any doctor, but questions ahead of time and write them down as you think of them. Knowledge is power.
Describe the protocols Mary Hinckley used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I do not recall the protocol or exact dosages. However I do remember that during the first egg retrieval, I had an iffy response at first had to increase some dosages throughout the cycle. I was so grateful for the close monitoring because ultimately that cycle yielded 6 high quality embryos that we transferred one at a time. We did not PGS test them because they appeared high quality and I was still relatively young at the time (just turned 35). Unfortunately none of them stuck (besides one early miscarriage).
At various times we tried adding in immunological/blood clotting testing, lovenox and an oral steroid. When we got down to the last two, Dr. Hinckley broached the topic of transferring both embryos, doing an era, or jumping right into another cycle and PGS testing the whole batch (all good ideas that we declined for various personal reasons).
We did another retrieval on higher dose meds, got 5 high quality embryos, PGS tested them this time, which yielded 2 that wee chromosomally normal. This is pretty average for my age (36 at this point). The first one stuck! We speculated together that I had a hidden egg quality issue. Which is still possibly a contributor, there’s no way of knowing. Sadly this pregnancy ended in stillbirth due to placental incompetency (my immune system attacked it).
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Reproductive Science Center.
Very efficient. These were typically done in the morning, with the clinic opening very early, so I could often get in before work. I rarely had to wait more than a few minutes and the appointments were always done quickly.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center.
I paid $35,000 to Attain for a refund program that included three retrievals and unlimited FETs. Meds and extra diagnostic testing (such as sonohysterograms, PGS, ERA) were not included. In addition to the Attain fee, I estimate we paid about $20,000 for tests and medication.
Describe Mary Hinckley's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
My doctor was a strong proponent of eSET.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
Age
36 - 38
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
I found Dr. Weckstein and the RSC staff overall to be great. ... Again, this was an issue with my particular case manager from my first cycle. She worked an unusual schedule with odd hours and failed to call me with instructions on more than one occasion. I had communicated my frustrations and was assigned a different case manager. ... I was told my original case manager no longer works at RSC.
+ Read more
Age
36 - 38
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
South Asian, Middle Eastern
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
I found Dr. Weckstein and the RSC staff overall to be great. The only weakness with my first IVF cycle was that it was difficult to get through to my original case manager/the staff via phone, but I'm currently going through the process again for baby #2 and have found that this issue seems to have been resolved.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Weckstein was genuine and took the time to explain what my test results meant and what our options were. He was very informed and he gave my husband and I his recommendations as well as all the information we needed to make an informed decision about our treatment.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Sara Romero)
My first case manager wasn't the best communicator, but she no longer works at the clinic and the case manager who took over my case, Sara R., is great. The nursing staff in general was and continues to be very friendly and helpful.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Failed to call with results
How was your experience with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Our experience with Dr. Weckstein was great. We found him to be extremely knowledgeable, thorough in his review of our case, and also compassionate. We started our IVF journey with Dr. Weckstein after several unsuccessful Clomid/Menopur and IUI cycles at Kaiser, and we have no regrets. Prior to IVF, we lost our first baby (conceived naturally) due to a rare fetal condition and were unable to conceive naturally again. In reviewing my medical history, he went out of his way to write a letter to our insurance company to justify coverage of the PGS screening for our embryos so we could avoid experiencing another loss. Because of this, we learned one of our Day-5 blasts was abnormal and would have ended in a miscarriage had we transferred it. At Dr. Weckstein's recommendation, we transferred a single embryo and we now have a healthy, beautiful 20 month old daughter. We are getting ready to transfer one of our 2 remaining frozen embryos with Dr. Weckstein this month and are hopeful it will be a successful pregnancy.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
I would say that you should trust him because he is experienced and knows what he's doing.
Describe the protocols Louis Weckstein used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
For my initial IVF cycle egg retrieval, I started on birth control pills on CD3 and stayed on them until CD14. On CD15 I had a baseline sonogram. I started stimulation 4 days later and was instructed to start daily baby Aspirin 81mg, FSH (Gonal f) 300 IU, and Menopur 150 IU for 10 days, adding Antagon (Ganirelix) (250mg) to the stimulation meds for the last 6 of those 10 days to prevent early ovulation. The next day I was instructed to discontinue FSH, Menopur, and Antagon, but continued baby aspirin. That evening I was instructed to give myself a trigger shot (Lupron 2mg) subcutaneiously. The following day I started my Azithromycin pack and had my retrieval 2 days later. I ended up with 11 mature eggs - more than anticipated.
Fertilization report:
12 Mature eggs => 11 fertilized with ICSI
• 6/19
Embryo progress update:
7 to 9 'Day 3' embryos
• 6/22
Embryo progress update:
4 'Day 5' embryos - sent in for PGS - results due next Wednesday 6/29
PGS Results:
3 good embryos - 2 girls/1 boy
1 embryo with Trisomy 9
Describe the costs associated with your care under Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center.
I had partial insurance coverage for the egg retrieval and first FET, so my out of pocket cost was about $12k for those 2 cycles. This included all the "extras" such as my share for the medication co-pays and opting for ICSI. I'm currently doing my 3rd FET (2nd FET ended in miscarriage) and the cost for the FET with no insurance coverage was approximately $5000 (medications included).
Describe Louis Weckstein's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Dr. Weckstein encouraged eSET for us because he said I had good quality embryos and I was 36 at the time. He didn't want to create any unnecessary risks by transferring more embryos. Our highest priority was to have a healthy baby and give him/her the best chance possible for a full term delivery.
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10
Age
28 - 30
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor
10
The clinic [RSC] has great success rates and is fairly competitively priced for local clinics in the bay area. Sometimes there are issues with billing, but I've found they are able to talk through any questions or mis-steps that arise. ... found the nurses I worked with to be encouraging and hopeful for us. My primary case management team was communicative, timely, and very helpful. They were also attuned to the emotionality of the process and genuinely warm and excited for us in our journey.
+ Read more
Age
28 - 30
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The clinic has great success rates and is fairly competitively priced for local clinics in the bay area. Sometimes there are issues with billing, but I've found they are able to talk through any questions or mis-steps that arise.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Rosenbluth is warm, caring, and personable. He explained his recommendations clearly each step of the way and was always available and willing to answer questions that arose. I always felt like he cared for us as a couple and was genuinely hoping for a good outcome for us, not just for clinic numbers.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Jennifer P)
The nursing staff were always friendly and comfortable to be with. I found the nurses I worked with to be encouraging and hopeful for us. My primary case management team was communicative, timely, and very helpful. They were also attuned to the emotionality of the process and genuinely warm and excited for us in our journey.
How was your experience with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Rosenbluth is smart, attentive, friendly, warm, honest, and focused on the best outcomes each step of the way. He never seemed rushed when we had time together and had a good sense of humor. I appreciated that he seemed engaged in my treatment from start to finish, communicating next steps and any adjustments through the treatment team. He was sensitive to the stress and emotional aspects of treatment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Ask lots of questions, he will review the hows and whys of your treatment recommendations or challenges until you are comfortable.
Describe the protocols Evan Rosenbluth used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
We followed a typical protocol for egg retrieval (injectables). We were planning on doing a fresh transfer, but had to freeze all embryos and wait to do a FET on the next cycle because my progesterone levels were off. For the FET we delayed the transfer by one week to get my lining up to par and had success with our first transfer.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center.
IVF with ICSI ~ $12k
FET ~$4k
Meds $3-5k
Describe Evan Rosenbluth's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
He strongly recommended eSET due to my age, male factor diagnosis, and the difficulties of multiples in pregnancy.
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9
Age
35
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
IVF, Donor Eggs, Surrogacy
Diagnosis
—
9
RSC at San Ramon office was very well run (which is where all the major work is done), while Foster City office is only a satellite office to serve patients in the peninsula. Foster City office was not well run at all, my blood sample was bad and I had to redo at San Ramon; this happened again for my GC a few months later. It also looks like they have let go some of the staff in Foster City, and hopefully this office will improve.
+ Read more
Age
35
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
South Asian
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Engineer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IVF, Donor Eggs, Surrogacy
Diagnosis
—
9
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
- Local to Bay Area. They said I only needed to show up in person 1-2 twice, so I thought a local office was not that important. I've shown up numerous times so far, so I'm very glad that we picked a local clinic.
- RSC was in Progyny, my insurance network. However Progyny coverage is unclear.
- RSC had good reputation. A friend of mine had a baby thru RSC not long ago. Despite some hiccups, RSC so far hasn't majorly changed my opinion yet.
- Foster City office had some hiccups, and they've changed my nurse without letting me know and I had to specifically ask. At least I think they quickly fix problems before the problems get out of hand.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
We walked away both having positive impression of our initial chat with Dr Reid. She was elaborate and able to explain everything clearly. We felt free to ask any questions we planned to. She was on top of her material and able to answer every single question.
Update: Our first transfer was not successful. Our second transfer was 2 days ago, so it's still too soon to tell. So far, she communicated well and everything is aligned with our expectation.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Sandra (our nurse/case manager))
I liked her as a person. However, my blood sample was ruined and not explained properly. A few months later, my GC's sample was again ruined. Thankfully it happened in Foster City. If it had happened in San Ramon (their main site), I would've changed the clinic.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Lost or damaged samples
How was your experience with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Our experience with Dr Reid was positive so far. We are about to start the 1st cycle in a few weeks, so it's too soon to rate further.
However, I can provide something about office. RSC at San Ramon office was very well run (which is where all the major work is done), while Foster City office is only a satellite office to serve patients in the peninsula. Foster City office was not well run at all, my blood sample was bad and I had to redo at San Ramon; this happened again for my GC a few months later. It also looks like they have let go some of the staff in Foster City, and hopefully this office will improve.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Our cycle has not yet started, so I'd rather not giving feedbacks yet.
I can have one feedback. Please see why the Foster City office ruined both my blood sample and my GC's sample, a few months apart.
Update: our first transfer was not successful. Our second transfer was 2 days ago. Our positive impression on Dr Reid is still the same. Would still recommend her.
Describe the protocols Sara Pittenger-Reid used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
My GC would be a better person to answer this.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center.
The first consultation with Dr Reid was $375 (I got this for free through Surrogacy conference). So far I've spent at least $40K on RSC-related services. I got 11 tested embryos, so I guess I'm happy so far.
Describe Sara Pittenger-Reid's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Most doctors I've talked to were against multiple transfer, while Dr Reid was very well aware of IP motivation and explained this clearly and unbiasedly in my opinion. This is among reasons we like Dr Reid.
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10
Age
33
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
The RSC clinic is great. It is a well oiled machine and yet my doctors and nurses never made me feel "like a number." We had problems with the billing department one time but it was easily resolved. Given the number of times I needed to go in for a blood draw or sonogram, etc. I got to know the assistants on a first name basis. They were very friendly and professional. The office visits were quick and they did not over-schedule.
+ Read more
Age
33
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Business Executive
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The RSC clinic is great. It is a well oiled machine and yet my doctors and nurses never made me feel "like a number." We had problems with the billing department one time but it was easily resolved. Given the number of times I needed to go in for a blood draw or sonogram, etc. I got to know the assistants on a first name basis. They were very friendly and professional. The office visits were quick and they did not over-schedule.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Erin Lewis at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Lewis always made me feel confident in the specific treatment I was receiving. I felt as though she was taking my unique situation into account.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Valeri Lewis and Paula Miller)
My clinical care team was amazing! I had two dedicated nurses who were sensitive and hands on.
How was your experience with Erin Lewis at Reproductive Science Center?
I felt very confident in the care of Dr. Lewis. She was empathetic but not too much so. I did an egg retrieval with her (which was very successful in number of eggs retrieved) and fertilized many embryos successfully. I always understood my options and fertility treatment plan.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Erin Lewis at Reproductive Science Center?
Expect Dr. Lewis to be very on top of your treatment plan. She is sensitive and you can call her whenever you need and ask her many questions. She is a younger doctor so expect that but she is highly qualified and eligible in my experience.
Describe the protocols Erin Lewis used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
We went through 4 rounds of clomid. Then we did one IUI where I ended up being hyper stimulated so could not proceed with IUI. From there we started IVF. My first transfer was successful but ended in a miscarriage at 8 weeks. My second was not successful. We have another 6 embryos to transfer.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Erin Lewis at Reproductive Science Center.
We elected an Attain program (a private company they partner with for eligible people). We elected a two egg retrieval cycle program. This cost us a flat fee of $25k without medicine. The medicine after one egg retrieval, one IUI, and two transfers cost us estimated $10k. My cycles were abnormally long and the medicine was more expensive (so I have been told by friends, doctors, etc.).
Describe Erin Lewis's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
RSC of the Bay Area, my fertility treatment center, has a solid policy on eSET.
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10
Age
36
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Other
10
So far, I've found the clinic [Reproductive Science Center] to be very organized, with reasonable appointment wait times, and a good online communication portal. They had all my records on file and referred to them before my initial visit. In terms of quickness and clarity about billing, this clinic has been the easiest to navigate thus far.... Nurse Romero has been fairly responsive and accommodating since our initial visit. I have asked several questions, and she responded to the first couple very quickly and helpfully. However, as I've continued to inquire about things (I'm very inquisitive!),
+ Read more
Age
36
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
—
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Other
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
So far, I've found the clinic to be very organized, with reasonable appointment wait times, and a good online communication portal. They had all my records on file and referred to them before my initial visit. In terms of quickness and clarity about billing, this clinic has been the easiest to navigate thus far.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Weckstein took time and care in explaining his analysis of my initial diagnostic results. He was kind yet direct and thorough in his discussion. He made sure to understand and respond to our questions. He was very quick in responding to my concerns out of the office as well. I felt that he genuinely cared and empathized with us.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Sara Romero)
Nurse Romero has been fairly responsive and accommodating since our initial visit. I have asked several questions, and she responded to the first couple very quickly and helpfully. However, as I've continued to inquire about things (I'm very inquisitive!), she has become less responsive.
How was your experience with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Weckstein shared his candid analysis of our diagnosis and prognosis. He communicated a difficult situation with compassion, and gave us the time we needed to process and come to our own conclusions. He has a wealth of experience, and gave us his perspective as well as possible other routes of action.
Describe the protocols Louis Weckstein used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I am at the very beginning. I have diminished ovarian reserve, and Dr. Weckstein is re-testing some of my initial bloodwork to determine how aggressive the medications, approach, etc. should be. He is recommending IVF with an option for PGS (though not required).
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
Age
30 - 31
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
The biggest thing I would say is that it is very very convenient that there are multiple locations so that I wasn’t constantly having to drive an hour each way to every appointment. I was so grateful for this. However, this meant we did have to drive to the main facility [Reproductive Science Center] in San Ramon (an hour away for us) for any major procedures as that is where the surgery suite was.... (Iui could be done in the Los Gatos office, but egg retrieval and transfers were done in San Ramon).
+ Read more
Age
30 - 31
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The biggest thing I would say is that it is very very convenient that there are multiple locations so that I wasn’t constantly having to drive an hour each way to every appointment. I was so grateful for this. However, this meant we did have to drive to the main facility in San Ramon (an hour away for us) for any major procedures as that is where the surgery suite was. (Iui could be done in the Los Gatos office, but egg retrieval and transfers were done in San Ramon). Also anything that occurred on the weekend had to be done in San Ramon - it was the only 365 days open clinic. The other thing was that, in order to have my doctor be the one to do my transfers (which I wanted and chose) - she was only in San Ramon every other Thursday, which meant my cycles were longer as I had to time things to wait until she could be at that office for the procedures. In the end, it was totally worth it and I am grateful for everyone. Everyone at both facilities (Los Gatos and San Ramon) were so friendly and you felt comfortable going there. You truly get a sense that everyone is rooting for you and will do anything they can to help you along the way and try to make this process less painful
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
She is very kind, remembers details, and is always available to chat or ask questions as needed. I didn’t feel like we followed a “this is what everyone gets” protocol but took the time to figure out our exact situation and how to change things to obtain a successful outcome. She was very positive and reassuring the entire way
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Lindsay Smith)
There will never be enough words to describe Lindsay. She was always so attentive, so positive and so helpful through this process. We wouldn’t have made it through without her. She was a source of information, and always available for crazy questions or just someone to talk to when everything became too much, or when I was feeling frustrated and emotional about the process. She became a confidant, someone who even talked to me late one evening after a failed iui and just let me cry and reassured me they were committed to getting us our baby. She was so very wonderful and Always quick to respond and happy. It made me feel so comfortable and confident in my treatment team
How was your experience with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
I really loved working with Dr. Wachs. The only issue is since she was out of the Los Gatos office, there were times my iui fell on a day where she wasn’t there to do the procedure or with IVF, I had to wait an extra week for transfer for her to be in the San Ramon office if I wanted her to be the one to do it (which I did). I trusted her implicitly and believe she had our best interest at heart and was rooting for us and wanted it as much as we did. She was always smiling and always encouraging and there if needed. She paid attention to our emotions and feelings, and made sure we always had all the information to make the best decisions and that we were okay with our course of treatment. She empowered us to know that we were in control of our treatment and we could change course at any time if we felt we wanted to do anything different.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Trust her. She knows what she is doing and she will lay out every option for you and what it means. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to understand the process. She is wonderful at being patient and explaining things so that you know what you are going through and what to expect.
Describe the protocols Deborah Wachs used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
For our iui cycles, I took letrozole days 3-7 and then started going in for ultrasounds around day 12. Once the follicles were appropriate size, I was instructed to give myself the ovidrel shot to trigger ovulation, and iui was performed 36 hours later. My husband would go in 2 hours before the procedure to give his sample and then we would go together for the IuI. After, I would lay on the table for 10 min or so then leave and go about my day. 2 weeks later I was given a blood test to determine if we were successful. We attempted this 3 months in a row with no success. We decided at this point to take a break, then switch to IVF. I took gonal-F and menopur, then added cetrotide 5 days later. I also started monitoring appointments on day 5 and went every other day. At my third appointment I was found to have 24 follicles growing and my dr sat me down and explained that while this is a great response, it increased my risk of OHSS and I wasn’t a good candid for a fresh transfer anymore. Afterthat appointment I switched to daily monitoring for a day or two and then triggered with Lupron on a Saturday night for a Monday morning egg retrieval. 15 eggs were retrieved, 13 were mature, 9 fertilized with icsi. We chose icsi since we had secondary unexplained infertility and were unsure what was causing this - so wanted the best option for fertilization to occur. Of the 9, we ended up with 3 day 5 blastocysts and 3 day 6 to go into the freezer. We opted out of pgs testing as we’ve had a previous successful pregnancy and no known genetic issues. We performed one 5 day FET the following month. I took estrace 2mg 3x/day starting on day 2 or 3 of my cycle, and then started progesterone shots and vaginal progesterone 2x/day 6 days before transfer. I had my blood test 9 days later which revealed we were unsuccessful and the transfer failed. Dr wachs then believed we had a timing issue, so we did ERA testing the following month - medication all the same as the previous month. The test found I was more receptive for transfer on day 7. The following month we did everything the same except I started progesterone 7 days before transfer. We opted to transfer two embryos this time to give ourselves a higher chance at success. We had multiple conversations with dr wachs about the pros and cons of a dual embryo transfer and she agreed to go ahead with it once she knew we had thoughtfully considered the outcomes. We found out 8 days after transfer that we were successful (hcg 71) then another blood test 11dpt (hcg 314) and was told it was probably only one embryo that took. We just had our first ultrasound at 6 weeks 3 days and saw one perfect embryo with a flickering heartbeat. I am continuing all my medication until my next appointment 2 weeks later (at 8 weeks, 3 days) at which point I hope to be able to stop the injections and wean off all other meds and “graduate” back to my normal OB for the duration of my pregnancy.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center.
Around $1200 per iui
$14,100 for IVF with icsi
$4062 per frozen transfer
$2000 ish for ERA testing (half to clinic, half to lab where testing was sent)
Describe Deborah Wachs's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
So for the first transfer, my doctor only ever transfers one - especially in my case of secondary unexplained infertility as she was confident the transfer would work. After the first didn’t take, and we did the ERA testing, we had a conversation where I brought up the prospect of transferring two as I read it increases your odds of success. My doctor stated she usually didn’t go to multiple until she was doing the same treatment that hadn’t worked prior, but if we wanted it and were ok with the possibility of having twins , and if having twins was better to us than having zero, she was okay with us transferring two. I appreciated her honesty and candor and I felt like she really listened to us and heard our perspective and agreed
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10
Age
38
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
15 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
10
The office [Reproductive Science Center] is very welcoming and clam. All nurses, and office staff are very nice and knowledgeable. They all show concern and care for you like you are the only one they see all day. You don't have to worry about waiting around... The whole office staff is amazing, I am so glad I was referred to them. They are all caring and very welcoming. I couldn't ask for a better clinic... My insurance covers most of my treatment this far
+ Read more
Age
38
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
3rd of 3 Docs
Treatment
15 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The office is very welcoming and clam. All nurses, and office staff are very nice and knowledgeable. They all show concern and care for you like you are the only one they see all day. You don't have to worry about waiting around
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Weckstien is very caring. He listens well and answers all questions. He is also very candid with you about your treatment. I know where I stand and where I am going if the directions we take don't work, I don't have to guess.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Laura )
The whole office staff is amazing, I am so glad I was referred to them. They are all caring and very welcoming. I couldn't ask for a better clinic
How was your experience with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
I've been seeing dr Weckstien for a year. I am currently still in treatment. Dr Weckstien is very candid with you on all the issues, I love that I don't have to worry about know what is going on. I wish I could see more of him though, the phone apts are great though because I live pretty far away
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Come with a list of questions a d wrote down the answers!
Describe the protocols Louis Weckstein used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I was first given the supplement ovasitol to help regulate me. I then was told to lose weight (ugh) I had an ultrasound to confirm PCOS. A month later I was given letrozole, I responded great so i injected ovadril but there was a timing issue. I took letrozole again & did not respond. The 3rd time I took letrozole I didn't respond but was given 8 more to take at once and did respond great injected ovadril but did not fall pregnant. I just finished a round of provera due to no cycle for 90 days. I am scheduled for an HSG in a few days.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center.
My insurance covers most of my treatment this far. I pay $209 for my timed intercourse with ovadril. IUI will be $408. IVF is not covered if it comes to that if I go through 2 IUIs with no baby
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10
Age
35
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS, Unexplained
10
I was very happy with this clinic [RSC]. Not only were the doctors and nurses warm and up to date on my care but the clinic also helped me find a way to get a lower cost treatment or procedure on multiple occasions (my insurance does not cover infertility treatments)... Our nurse was very organized and responsive and if she could not respond quickly she often had another nurse help answer my questions.
+ Read more
Age
35
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Lawyer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS, Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
I was very happy with this clinic. Not only were the doctors and nurses warm and up to date on my care but the clinic also helped me find a way to get a lower cost treatment or procedure on multiple occasions (my insurance does not cover infertility treatments)
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Rosenbluth was very sensitive to the stressful nature of infertility and did not get defensive or dismissive even when I was very skeptical or dismissive myself. He shared his personal experiences with infertility and very clearly explained all the details of our plan and costs and benefits of our options. I felt he listened to me and took my feelings and priorities into account when recommending options.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center.
Our nurse was very organized and responsive and if she could not respond quickly she often had another nurse help answer my questions.
How was your experience with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Rosenbluth had a caring demeanor and listened to my concerns. He was very serious, but he didn’t hesitate to share his personal experiences which helped me feel reassured that he understood how I felt.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions and speak up because Dr. Rosenbluth is a good listener and is open to hearing your concerns.
Describe the protocols Evan Rosenbluth used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
Due to our schedule and cost concerns, and lack of other complicating factors, Dr. Rosenbluth recommended a conservative approach to start and we first tried an unmonitored cycle of letrozole. It worked the first time and we didn’t have to spend a ton of time or money on monitoring that we would have otherwise had to spend. He was also flexible with our travel plans.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center.
The consultation, HSG, and cycle were all expensive but the clinic helped us find the cheapest options.
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6
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
5 IUI
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
6
$500-800 for initial visit and sonogram [at Reproductive Science Center], $1000 per IUI, $300 HSG, acupuncture done outside of clinic.... They care about getting pregnant results fast. They don’t always take the time to trust the patient knowing their body and come up with some wholistic approaches...They [nurses] were friendly. I always had someone else helping me and often would meet the doctor performing my IUI that same day. They were all kind but I never had Dr. Homer doing the procedures.
+ Read more
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
5 IUI
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
6
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Very expensive. I wish insurance covered more. They have good success rates and quality doctors. They care about getting pregnant results fast. They don’t always take the time to trust the patient knowing their body and come up with some wholistic approaches.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
He was kind and took time with me. Though he wanted me to do full medication, after some advocating for myself he allowed me to try only HCG injections without clomid. They weren’t positive or encouraging about me doing it this way which made me feel a little unsupported, but at least were will to try 3.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Lindsay )
They were friendly. I always had someone else helping me and often would meet the doctor performing my IUI that same day. They were all kind but I never had Dr. Homer doing the procedures.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Provided conflicting information
- Failed to convey critical information
- Canceled a cycle due to clinic error
How was your experience with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
He was helpful at taking time with us and understanding where we were at. I appreciated his expertise and his reputation.
I wished he would have worked with me a little better on non-medicated treatments and look more into blood work. I’ve had many friends have way more blood work done than me, a day 3 cycle test which I have not had done, nor hormone testing on certain days of my cycle or during IUIs.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
If you are ready to jump all in and haven’t done too much research on your own or know much about your body and just are ready to get pregnant no matter what, he is a great doctor. I want to get pregnant while doing it in the most natural and healthy way for how my body is currently responding.
Describe the protocols Michael Vance Homer used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
Immediately he said our chances of conceiving naturally were 1%. This was a very quick diagnosis. He thought if we wanted to do IUIs to try three on clomid. We pushed back and asked for 3 natural with HCG and he was willing only to do 3. After that he wanted to start us on clomid. During the time there were no other blood tests performed, which I hoped to get some more answers. We took 5 months off to give ourselves a break and just started up again and requested the HSG test.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center.
$500-800 for initial visit and sonogram, $1000 per IUI, $300 HSG, acupuncture done outside of clinic but for my treatments
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
Age
34 - 36
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, PCOS
10
Staff [RSC] outside of finance and billing is great not complaints. At one point it seemed the Orinda office has a lot of turnaround and the front staff was not as knowledgeable on our account and journey. Being sent from location to location there needs to be better communication between clinics so that we are not told different information on each visit.... Our first cycle was a-la-cart but after packages were created which was the communication issue we had. I believe we have spent over 10k with treatments and meds.
+ Read more
Age
34 - 36
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Black or African-American
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Engineer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, PCOS
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Staff outside of finance and billing is great not complaints. At one point it seemed the Orinda office has a lot of turnaround and the front staff was not as knowledgeable on our account and journey. Being sent from location to location there needs to be better communication between clinics so that we are not told different information on each visit.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Our dr and his team are very interactive, responding when questions arose in a timely manner, very kind during the entire process all 3 times. And the staff was great all the way
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Heather)
Very authentic with her words and approach in passing along information, kept us informed with any Dr treatment changes and got all of our questions to the Dr and clear responses. And during our issue with the billing/finance department took a stand and stood up for us to remove some of the major stress they were causing us, and got us in contact with the decision makers. Heather was and is still a God send during our treatments.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Failed to call with results
- Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
- Provided conflicting information
How was your experience with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Rosenbluth is a great person, he has really great bedside manner and really treats you as a person and not just another dollar sign as we have seen with other clinics. His tone during discussions is great and he keeps it real when deciding next steps. And even when we believe we would like to extend shots or produce more eggs for better chances he adjust the treatment to give us what we would like and doesn't fight back but gives all the possibilities and outcomes. And he hasn't pressured us into IVF after each fail.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
He is very busy and highly sought out so don't fear if he is unable to do all your procedures.
Describe the protocols Evan Rosenbluth used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
First was pills with no injectables which resulted in little growth. Then we moved to pills and injectables which lead to a positive result but ended in miscarriage, then another treatment with injectables which was extended out becasue of test needed which resulted in 1 very large egg but a negative test, then another round with injectables at a lower dosage to get more eggs which resulted in a low positive that we thought was chemical but started to double but ended in a miscarriage.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center.
Our first cycle was a-la-cart but after packages were created which was the communication issue we had. I believe we have spent over 10k with treatments and meds.
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9
Age
33 - 34
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, PCOS
9
The clinic [RSC - Orinda] is pretty warm in welcoming you, especially Ms. Loretta at the front desk. I adore her. She always greets me with a smile and I get the same when I'm leaving.... Heather is an amazing case manager. She is always available to answer our questions and she does so with such kindness and compassion....The only thing to be on alert about is the financial coordinator... She gave us information that was not accurate, made our cycle extra stressful
+ Read more
Age
33 - 34
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Black or African-American
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 4 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, PCOS
9
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The clinic is pretty warm in welcoming you, especially Ms. Loretta at the front desk. I adore her. She always greets me with a smile and I get the same when I'm leaving. The only thing to be on alert about is the financial coordinator Amy. We only worked with her for a short while but that was long enough to leave a really bad taste in our mouths. She gave us information that was not accurate, made our cycle extra stressful on top of the stress that already comes with TTC, and when asked to discuss the errors, she became very combative and was not willing to right her wrong. My advice, if you're assigned to her, make sure you do your due diligence. Double-check EVERYTHING. And if you want to be sure you're getting the best quality of care, ask for a different financial coordinator.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Even if the doctor is unavailable to talk to me directly, my case manager is usually able to get a hold of him to answer my questions and get back to me in a prompt manner. I like that a lot.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Heather Thomson)
Heather is an amazing case manager. She is always available to answer our questions and she does so with such kindness and compassion. We've been on this TTC journey for almost 4 years and are on our 4th clinic and having a great nursing staff is KEY. I could not be more pleased with Heather on our team.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Failed to call with results
- Provided conflicting information
How was your experience with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Rosenbluth is good at what he does. He can be warm in his delivery of not so good news, but I like that he is always willing to discuss next steps if the outcome isn't what we had hoped for. I'll be honest, I wasn't the biggest fan after our initial consultation, but he grew on me. I feel that he has a genuine interest in our success and I appreciate that a lot.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
He talks pretty fast so make sure you ask questions if you don't understand something.
Describe the protocols Evan Rosenbluth used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
During our first cycle of injectables with IUI, I was started on a low dosage of medicine because he didn't want to overstimulate too many of my follicles. It took a while for me to respond so we ended up increasing the dose. I ended up with OHSS by the end of the cycle, but I got pregnant and that was all that mattered to me. I ended up miscarrying at 6 weeks so on the next cycle, we did not increase the injections nearly as much so as to avoid another OHSS situation. I didn't get pregnant but Dr. Rosenbluth said it was a better controlled cycle so he advised we try that again. The third cycle we did the same thing with the injectables and I got pregnant. Unfortunately, I am miscarrying again but the fact that I got pregnant again was somewhat good news, That first cycle was more of a trial and error IMO and we learned what my body could and could not handle.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center.
Consultation $275-300, IUI cycle (with monitoring) $2525, Insemination/sperm washing $525, HCG test $65, Estrodiol test $100, Ultrasound $325-375, Saline Sonogram $665
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10
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis, Male Factor
10
The clinic [RSC - Orinda] is amazing from the moment you email them about with an inquiry. They are kind, professional, and calming. They are punctual and do what they, when they say they will. All of the staff have been kind and welcoming and professional. No weaknesses. Even their Orinda location is perfectly located to Bart so it’s an easy walk to appointments.... They use Natera for genetic testing and you don’t pay till after and receive a significant discount for being an RSC patient. They also have financial a resource officer on site in the office.
+ Read more
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis, Male Factor
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The clinic is amazing from the moment you email them about with an inquiry. They are kind, professional, and calming. They are punctual and do what they, when they say they will. All of the staff have been kind and welcoming and professional. No weaknesses. Even their Orinda location is perfectly located to Bart so it’s an easy walk to appointments.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Rosebluth (and his whole office) treated us with compassion from the moment we walked in, but was also candid and gave us a lot of information, and then was always happy to review that information over again with us, and answer any questions. He has personally called me to give me good and not so good news, and really has taken the time to care for our feelings, but also understands that we want to know the details and the ins and out of everything. He is the perfect balance of information and understanding that this is a hard and emotional time.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Laura B. )
Laura B has been there every step of the way and has taken time to call and email me regularly, has kept me very up to date with progress, and has repeatedly answered my questions and clarified things when I am confused. She has advocated for me with getting prescriptions and other blood work done and for lowered prices. She has also taken time to arrange for special classes for us when there was not availability in the scheduled classes. She also is very funny and warm and caring.
How was your experience with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Rosenbluth met us on our first appointment and from the get go got down to business, he knew our history and information which I appreciated- he did his homework before we arrived. He spoke easily and made it all understandable, not confusing doctor talk. He made us feel comfortable to ask questions and reviewed anything we asked over again. He has also called me a number of times to discuss outcomes and treatment changes which has been really personal and greatly appreciated. He never seems rushed or wanting to move to the next person.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Go to your appointments with questions and ask anything you are confused about- he is happy to answer them and obviously knows what he is doing. His end goal is to help you and it’s very obvious he’s a wonderful person.
Describe the protocols Evan Rosenbluth used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
We haven’t delved into the actual treatments yet but I have a very detailed calendar and plan laid out which I appreciate. I know Dr Rosenbluth will be very communicative throughout the whole process.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center.
Some costs were upfront: $250 for initial visit, and $590-700 for other visits and sonograms/tests. All reasonable fees. They use Natera for genetic testing and you don’t pay till after and receive a significant discount for being an RSC patient. They also have financial a resource officer on site in the office.
Describe Evan Rosenbluth's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
I appreciate that Dr Rosenbluth and RSC are honest about not doing multiple transfers due to the heightened pregnancy risks. They care that we take one baby home and have high standards of practice.
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8
Age
41
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Uterine Fibroids
8
The office [Repro Science Ctr] environment is great, clean and well decorated. Everyone on the staff is very nice. They are mostly pretty well organized, although they could improve at that sometimes. For example, one time, one of the nurses gave me a blood test, and then the other one called me later and recommended that I get the same blood test, not realizing that I'd already had it done that morning at the clinic. But for the most part, they are on top of things.
+ Read more
Age
41
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Professor
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Uterine Fibroids
8
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The office environment is great, clean and well decorated. Everyone on the staff is very nice. They are mostly pretty well organized, although they could improve at that sometimes. For example, one time, one of the nurses gave me a blood test, and then the other one called me later and recommended that I get the same blood test, not realizing that I'd already had it done that morning at the clinic. But for the most part, they are on top of things.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Leticia)
My nurse is great. Very warm, likeable, and communicative.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Provided conflicting information
How was your experience with Susan Willman at Reproductive Science Center?
She seems very competent. She is very good at explaining things in detail. She is thorough. She is very focused on genetic testing. I felt like she is slightly overly cautious. I tested as a carrier for a very rare genetic condition and I didn't want to pay to have my sperm donor tested for it because I was comfortable with the very small risk; she was a bit heavy handed in trying to talk me into doing further genetic testing. Similarly, she wanted to do an HSG test for blocked tubes right out of the gate, whereas other fertility doctors with which I consulted suggested doing 3 rounds of IUI before jumping to HSG. So, she likes tests. I think she knows what she is doing. Her bedside manner is mostly matter of fact, but she is not cold. She is nice.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Susan Willman at Reproductive Science Center?
Let her know if you don't want all of the tests she is recommending. For example, I told her I wanted to try 3 rounds of IUI before getting an HSG test, and she was okay with that plan. I just had to be assertive about it.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Susan Willman at Reproductive Science Center.
IUI $880 per cycle (including untra-sound monitoring)
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10
Age
30 - 31
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
This clinic [Reproductive Science Center] is amazing. Every single staff member I encountered was amazing. The location itself was convenient, with ample parking. The facility was clean, comfortable, and all the equipment was in great condition. I honestly don't have a single bad thing to say...Lindsay [nurse] was just amazing! She was so responsive. Always there to answer my questions via the patient portal. And on days that she was on leave, someone else always got back to me in her stead, always within the same day. I loved knowing that I could reach out to her and she would be patient and willing to answer any and all questions, as silly as they may have seemed to her.
+ Read more
Age
30 - 31
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
South Asian
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
This clinic is amazing. Every single staff member I encountered was amazing. The location itself was convenient, with ample parking. The facility was clean, comfortable, and all the equipment was in great condition. I honestly don't have a single bad thing to say.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Homer was absolutely amazing! He was frank, honest, kind, warm, and always gave me time. He never rushed me, always listened to all my questions and concerns, and never disregarded any of my feelings, concerns or instincts. I am actually a little sad to have to graduate from the fertility center back to my OB just because I would have loved to see him and the wonderful staff at the RSC throughout my pregnancy.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Lindsay Smith)
Lindsay was just amazing! She was so responsive. Always there to answer my questions via the patient portal. And on days that she was on leave, someone else always got back to me in her stead, always within the same day. I loved knowing that I could reach out to her and she would be patient and willing to answer any and all questions, as silly as they may have seemed to her.
How was your experience with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Homer was just great. He gave me time, patience and respect. He always listened. I never once felt like I didn't know what was happening, or why. He never rushed me, and answered all of my thousands of questions.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Don't be shy to ask all the questions you may have.
Describe the protocols Michael Vance Homer used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I was diagnosed with unexplained infertility, and also really long, irregular cycles. After having tried to conceive naturally for a year and a half, Dr. Homer recommended we move forward with a medicated (Letrozole) IUI treatment.
In the days leading up to this cycle, we did blood-work and discovered elevated TSH levels, for which he prescribed me some medication. It must have been this medication that did the trick, for I ended up naturally conceiving in that final natural cycle leading up to my scheduled IUI cycle. It was a wonderful surprise!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center.
As I never ended up needing fertility treatment, I was just charged for the initial diagnosis appointment, and a followup ultrasound appointment after I became pregnant.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
Age
40
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
6 IUI, 2 IVF, Donor Eggs
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
I did a Donor cycle, so I was put on minimum drugs [at Reproductive Science Center]...The nurses are amazing. Always happy, seem to love their jobs, and seem to really want their patients to succeed...The clinic is great! They have multiple locations throughout the bay area and make it convenient to do your cycle wherever it is closest to you. The main clinic is open on the weekends, so you aren't worried about something happening on the weekend.
+ Read more
Age
40
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European, South Asian
Income
—
Occupation
Sales Representative
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 4 Docs
Treatment
6 IUI, 2 IVF, Donor Eggs
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The clinic is great! They have multiple locations throughout the bay area and make it convenient to do your cycle wherever it is closest to you. The main clinic is open on the weekends, so you aren't worried about something happening on the weekend.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
From the moment I shook Dr. Wecksteins hand, I knew he was the doctor for me. Kind, compassionate, friendly, calm, and candid. He has genuine in his answers to me. Listened to what I didn't like in my past protocols, assured me that he would do what made the most sense and made me comfortable.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Sandra :) )
The nurses are amazing. Always happy, seem to love their jobs, and seem to really want their patients to succeed.
How was your experience with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
I found Dr. Weckstein to be extremely patient, knowledgeable, and candid. I explained that I thought I had an issue with my progesterone, he then explained that we would do POI shots and would monitor how my progesterone was doing. Every other doctor either scoffed at the idea that progesterone was an issue or said they would give me supplements. Dr. Weckstein referred to different research that pointed to carrying a baby to full term. I've been searching for a doctor to be on the forefront of this. I'm pregnant now, although very early, I've never been pregnant through infertility treatments and I've never had my progesterone tested. Well, it's a 56 and we are very happy about it.
Also, I told him I react poorly to Lupron which he said no problem, we can do a cycle with the minimum and see how it works, and it worked great! positive test 3 days early. Every time I've mentioned something about my process he would find another solution, which every other clinic told me it was "their" protocol that I was paying for and that they wouldn't modify it.
Describe the protocols Louis Weckstein used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I did a Donor cycle, so I was put on minimum drugs. Estradiol patches, 2 every 3 days, and progesterone suppositories, and progesterone oil shots once a night.
Describe Louis Weckstein's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Dr. Weckstein highly advised us to only do a single embryo transfer. We went through 5 failed cycles, so I had no hesitation to do a multiple transfers, which he reluctantly agreed to.
We ended up with only two blasts and we put two blasts in. I'm luckily pregnant, my betas aren't crazy so we think it's just a singleton.
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10
Age
44 - 45
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
We applied for a double retrieval and paid $36k. We opted for PGS testing which was a separate cost of about $4k. Medicine/hormones were also an additional cost of about $10k.... Laura [Reproductive Science Center - Foster City] made all of my appointments fit my work schedule. I had a favorite sonographer (I can’t remember her name) but she was the best! She took the time to explain what she saw in my ultrasounds. I loved every time I had her and would ask to have her for each ultrasound if she was at my location and on schedule.
+ Read more
Age
44 - 45
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Business Executive
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Be on time.
Be respectful and kind to the employees. They are here to help you on this journey.
Be honest, open and most of all patient. The journey of infertility and IUI/IVF is an emotional one.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Reid is very personable and when I speak with her she always makes me feel like she has my care in her hands.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Laura Applinger)
Laura made all of my appointments fit my work schedule.
I had a favorite sonographer (I can’t remember her name) but she was the best! She took the time to explain what she saw in my ultrasounds. I loved every time I had her and would ask to have her for each ultrasound if she was at my location and on schedule.
How was your experience with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Reid works with a great te if doctors and they all took great care of me through both of my retrievals.
I appreciate Dr. Reid and her guidance throughout the IVF process and our journey to have a baby.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Ask a lot of questions.
Ask about the different options.
Be open to Dr. Reid’s advice.
Be sure to weigh out your options before making any decisions.
Describe the protocols Sara Pittenger-Reid used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
The very first cycle started with bcp protocol before starting stimulating hormones but that didn’t work because I developed an ovarian cyst and so we skipped a cycle until cyst disappeared.
The 2nd cycle I started with estrogen priming. I was on stimulating hormones for 14 days. My first retrieval yielded 14 follicles,
8 fertilized, 5 made it to blastocyst, 5 sent for PGS testing, all came back abnormal.
The 3rd cycle was exactly the same as the 2nd except I I had 17 follicles, 10 fertilized, 5 made it blastocyst, 3 sent for PGS testing, 1 embryo came back normal. After retrieval I had myectomy to remove fibroids and hysteroscopy to removed scarring. Next step is mock transfer then FET transfer.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center.
We applied for a double retrieval and paid $36k. We opted for PGS testing which was a separate cost of about $4k. Medicine/hormones were also an additional cost of about $10k.
Describe Sara Pittenger-Reid's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Dr Reid will only do a single embryo transfer because of the removal uterine fibroids.
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8
Age
28 - 29
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Tubal Blockage
8
They [SRC- San Ramon] did change their computer system last year and that was quite the hassle for patients and there new online system is confusing. Otherwise the equipment, people and lab is amazing. A lab onsite makes a huge difference.... 25,000 for Egg Retrieval and Embryo Transfer (not including medication) 5,000 for FET-not including medication... Laura is absolutely amazing! She truly cares about me and our outcomes.
+ Read more
Age
28 - 29
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 3 Docs
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Tubal Blockage
8
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The clinic is very far away (2.5 hour drive) away from me but that isn't their fault. They did change their computer system last year and that was quite the hassle for patients and there new online system is confusing. Otherwise the equipment, people and lab is amazing. A lab onsite makes a huge difference.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Somedays like a number and some like a human. Just depended on the day and where we were at with cycles.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Laura)
Laura is absolutely amazing! She truly cares about me and our outcomes. I dealt with other staff there (I don't remember names) and they were not as good as her.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Provided conflicting information
How was your experience with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Weckstein cares a lot about what he does and cares about his patients. He is knowledgable and helpful. He likes to use numbers and statistics which I love. Only downfall was because we are "young" we did not do testing in the beginning and had 2 failed transfers because of it. Wish we had pushed for more testing earlier.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Don't be afraid to ask questions and request testing even if he says it isn't "necessary."
Describe the protocols Louis Weckstein used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
1st was Egg Retrieval and Fresh Embryo Transfer-I don't remember much about this one. SubQ shots and vaginal suppositories. This ended up in Ectopic Pregnancy-not anyones fault.
2nd was FET-vaginal estrogen and then ended up on IM estrogen because my lining was not thickening. Then when uterine lining was 8mm started in vaginal progesterone and IM progesterone (had low progesterone before). This turned out to be a BFN.
3rd FET-Same as before but started IM estrogen way earlier and lining was perfect at first ultrasound.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center.
25,000 for Egg Retrieval and Embryo Transfer (not including medication)
5,000 for FET-not including medication
Describe Louis Weckstein's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
They have suggested for us only single embryo transfer because we are young and have good embryos (as far as we know).
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10
Age
35 - 37
Treated
2015 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
Devronne [nurse at Reproductive Science Center] was so on the ball! Her communication was crystal clear, and she always responded to my questions right away...I didn't feel like a number, and I appreciated their multiple convenient locations. I interacted with many of the doctors and found them all easy to communicate with and seemingly very competent...I was diagnosed with diminished ovarian reserve at age 34, so we did two back-to-back IVFs to bank embryos. We transferred one high quality embryo, and that became my son.
+ Read more
Age
35 - 37
Treated
2015 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Ashkenazi Jewish
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Writer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 3 Docs
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
I like RSC. I didn't feel like a number, and I appreciated their multiple convenient locations. I interacted with many of the doctors and found them all easy to communicate with and seemingly very competent.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Hinckley very quickly understood that I wanted a lot of very detailed information, and she worked hard to answer my many questions. She often made time for a quick phone call with me. She was always so warm and cheerful!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Devronne Houston)
Devronne was so on the ball! Her communication was crystal clear, and she always responded to my questions right away.
How was your experience with Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Hinckley is extremely knowledgeable, and she's very good at explaining complex medical information in a way that's easy to understand. She is very patient, and she's willing to go above and beyond to answer even the smallest of questions. She has even rearranged her schedule for me a few times. She's also upbeat, optimistic, and fun to talk to. I've now seen three REs, and she's by far my favorite.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
You're in good hands!
Describe the protocols Mary Hinckley used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I was diagnosed with diminished ovarian reserve at age 34, so we did two back-to-back IVFs to bank embryos. We transferred one high quality embryo, and that became my son. I had an additional three frozen embryos left over, and we tried two more times. The first try, a single embryo transfer, resulted in a miscarriage at 9 weeks that was later determined to be because of trisomy 15. The second try, we were planning to transfer the remaining two, but only one survived the thaw. That one resulted in a chemical pregnancy.
Describe Mary Hinckley's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Dr. Hinckley strongly recommended that we do eSET based on our embryo quality and my age.
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8
Age
36 - 40
Treated
2013 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Poor Egg Quality
8
The financial department [at RSC] is very unhelpful...Next to the anguish of a failed cycle, the confusion and frustration I felt when dealing with the financial department was the worst part of going through IVF...I had no complaints about the nursing staff or case manager. I felt well-taken care of...read up on which doctor you pick, because there are many and they all have their own styles....the financial and billing aspect of this process was a nightmare and it is here that the clinic has its biggest weakness.
+ Read more
Age
36 - 40
Treated
2013 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
—
Occupation
Writer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Poor Egg Quality
8
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
I think RSC is a great choice if you are in the Bay Area. Look at their SART success rates. Definitely read up on which doctor you pick, because there are many and they all have their own styles. The financial department is very unhelpful. If you have insurance coverage for infertility, it is very difficult to understand how much you will actually pay out of pocket until they are asking for a payment. Next to the anguish of a failed cycle, the confusion and frustration I felt when dealing with the financial department was the worst part of going through IVF.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Susan Willman at Reproductive Science Center?
For the most part, I liked Dr. Willman's "bedside manner." She was matter of fact without being cold, and went into the medical details in a way that I appreciated. In terms of her treatment plans, however, I do feel that she relies on numbers and statistics with less outside-the-box intuitive thinking, which means her treatment plans are somewhat less tailored to each individual. In my case she weighed lab results more than my medical history, so prescribed a medication protocol that looked good "on paper" but didn't take into account that I had tried something similar in the past with a poor outcome.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Valeri Weber)
I had no complaints about the nursing staff or case manager. I felt well-taken care of.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Provided conflicting information
How was your experience with Susan Willman at Reproductive Science Center?
For straightforward cases, I expect Dr. Willman could be great. But in my experience, as soon as anything deviated from the norm, it all started to fall apart. She's well-respected in the Bay Area and that's got to be for a reason, but I now doubt her medical opinion based on feedback from two other REs on her protocol. For example, she told me that blastocycsts from a rescue ICSI are no less likely to be viable than from regular ICSI or just IVF. She also told me that breastfeeding would have no effect on my IVF cycle. I have spoken to other doctors who feel the opposite on both those counts. She also tends to get defensive when challenged on some of the calls she's made, which while understandable, doesn't sit right with me. Despite some major setbacks, I did get pregnant and gave birth to my kid, though trying for #2 with this doctor was a complete failure.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Susan Willman at Reproductive Science Center?
Trust your gut.
Describe the protocols Susan Willman used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
My first IVF cycle was an antagonist protocol and canceled for a lead follicle. My 2nd cycle was a Lupron microdose flare protocol and ultimately did lead to a pregnancy and live birth. However, we were advised to use ICSI, agreed and paid for it, and then it was not done. We had an almost total fertilization failure--out of 15 eggs only 2 fertilized. Dr. Willman said that since the sperm had looked good, she decided against ICSI. We were livid and upset. The lab did "rescue ICSI" at this point, which ultimately led to 1 frozen blastocyst. I have heard since that rescue ICSI almost never works and that the blasts that result from it are almost always nonviable. Indeed, the FET cycle we did with that blast was a failure. For our last cycle, in an attempt to conceive a 2nd child, Dr. Willman prescribed another antagonist cycle despite the fact that in the past that had led to a canceled cycle for me. It was coupled with estrogen priming, FSH and Menopur. She also prescribed human growth hormone, but not beginning till stim day 5. In speaking with other doctors, the HGH should be started far earlier in the cycle. I had poor response to the drugs and my estrogen never reached above 900, even with 12 follicles. My estrogen dipped on the day of trigger. I asked Dr. Willman if we should cancel the cycle and she recommended going ahead to retrieval because this might be as good as I would be able to get. They got 7 mature eggs. Four fertilized, and only 1 made it to day 3. On day 6 it was deemed poor quality and not frozen or transferred. I really wish we had canceled the cycle. Now she recommends donor eggs.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Susan Willman at Reproductive Science Center.
It's far too much effort for me to try to quantify this unfortunately, between insurance coverage, canceled cycles, etc. It's all a blur. As I said previously, the financial and billing aspect of this process was a nightmare and it is here that the clinic has its biggest weakness.
Describe Susan Willman's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Dr. Willman is a strong believer in the advantages of a healthy singleton pregnancy, and would likely recommend an eSET if the patient were on the younger side, or at any age if the embryos were normal as determined by genetic testing.
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10
Age
33 - 34
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
5 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
I didn't have a ton of exposure to the nursing team [at Reproductive Science Center]...I did see a nurse for one of my follicle scans and she was outstanding ...We had a pretty substantial cost for the ultrasounds each month... there were some weaknesses we discovered once we left and went to our OB at Los Olivos with getting our paperwork sent over. We confirmed to have it sent over at our last RSC appointment and i called the day before my OB appt to make sure paperwork was sent. Then at my first OB appointment they were still missing all my blood work.
+ Read more
Age
33 - 34
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Operations
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
5 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The clinic was in a good location, clean and pleasant to visit. there were some weaknesses we discovered once we left and went to our OB at Los Olivos with getting our paperwork sent over. We confirmed to have it sent over at our last RSC appointment and i called the day before my OB appt to make sure paperwork was sent. Then at my first OB appointment they were still missing all my blood work.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Homer was incredible throughout our entire experience, start to finish. In the first meeting we immediately bonded with him, he experience medically and personally helped us instill trust in him pretty much right away. We enjoyed meeting with him and he took so much time with us to explain the whole process and what he could do for us. He was a partner throughout the entire process and never shyed away from the tough stuff, we had to go through some hard times and he was always thorough and supportive with us, telling us exactly what we needed and wanted to know, respectfully and politely. I cannot say enough good things about our experience with Dr. Homer. I met with one other Dr while Dr Homer was out, she did my follicle scan and she was absolutely delightful and encouraging as well. The support staff was also pretty outstanding, always trying to be supportive and prompt, it was much appreciated.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
I didn't have a ton of exposure to the nursing team, unless Judi is part of that team? She was outstanding and generally supported me over the phone and through the portal. I did see a nurse for one of my follicle scans and she was outstanding as well, sorry I dont know her name.
How was your experience with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Homer was incredible throughout our entire experience, start to finish. In the first meeting we immediately bonded with him, he experience medically and personally helped us instill trust in him pretty much right away. We enjoyed meeting with him and he took so much time with us to explain the whole process and what he could do for us. I had previously visited another Dr who prescribed Clomid and incorrectly told me I did not have PCOS, she was prepared to up my prescription of Clomid to 100mg after 3 failed cycles. At that point I chose to move to see Dr. Homer and I look back all the time and am grateful we made that decision. At my first ultrasound with Dr. Homer he immediately confirmed I was a classic case of PCOS. From there he made the decision to not go forward with Clomid but to switch to Femera. I got pregnant the first cycle. It was a tough experience as we learned that I miscarried at our first appointment, but Dr Homer was right there for us, helping me through the medication to have the miscarriage at home, no DNC required thankfully. He even called me the next day, On a Saturday, to check in on me, it meant the world to me. He was a partner throughout the entire process and never shyed away from the tough stuff.
After that, I had many weeks with blood appointments to check my Hcg, which took it's sweet time in going down. I think I tested 3-4 weeks in a row before we gave it a rest for a couple weeks and tested again. It took about 2 months to get it completely gone so we could start trying again. Dr Homer put me on my second cycle with Femera and sure enough we got pregnant on the first try again, I simply couldn't believe it. the first few months were pretty grueling, always expecting something to go wrong. I was terrified for my first ultrasound. Dr Homer was perfectly matching my optimism but also completely respecting and mirroring my cautious excitement. Once he got in there and saw the heartbeat he took a minute to confirm before he gave me the good news. My husband and I were ecstatic and so was he. We had the best appointment and were so endlessly grateful for his partnership and guidance. After that we had a 2 week trip to Ireland and I couldnt wait to come home to get another hopefully good screen. We could have switched to an OB at that time, but we werent ready to leave Dr Homer. We came back from the trip and got to see the baby grown quite a bit, arms and legs and most importantly a strong heartbeat. Dr Homer gave us hugs of congratulations and his staff gave us so many well wishes on our way out the door. Dr Homer even helped me find a new OB which was a big deal for us and we've now met her and absolutely love her! I of course would prefer to stay with Dr Homer if it were a possibility, but because it's not we're thrilled to have her. I can't say enough good things about Dr Homer, without him I dont think this experience ever could have worked as quickly and certainly wouldn't have been so pleasant.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Don't wait to get engaged with Reproductive Science Center, you need to get care from a Dr and a clinic who know what they're talking about with Fertility.
Describe the protocols Michael Vance Homer used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
Due to my diagnosis with PCOS Dr Homer prescribed Femera, not Clomid that my previous Dr had me on. It worked our first two cycles on it and I'm so grateful that he customized our treatment for my condition.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center.
We had a pretty substantial cost for the ultrasounds each month. Also the only thing I was really caught off guard by was when I needed to come in for weekly blood draws for my Hcg levels, I was anxious to hear results so it was recommended that I do the draws at RSC so i could get same day results. Unfortunately after a few draws I found out that my coverage didnt extend to those blood draws and i needed to go to a LabCorp, so I got charged way more than expected for those visits and that was really disappointing.
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8
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
4 IUI, 3 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
8
You don't get a ton of face time with your doctor [at Reproductive Science Center] . You may or not see them at all once your cycle starts. However, every physician with whom I've interacted has been kind, reassuring, and competent....12k for ivf (not including meds) 17k for freeze all with PGS (not including meds)...I was verbally told they were drawing a beta when my period was a week late (getting ready to start a cycle), but only drew estrogen and progesterone.
+ Read more
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European, Middle Eastern
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
3rd of 3 Docs
Treatment
4 IUI, 3 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
8
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
You don't get a ton of face time with your doctor. You may or not see them at all once your cycle starts. However, every physician with whom I've interacted has been kind, reassuring, and competent.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
She's kind, thoughtful, and funny. It feels as though she cares if you're pregnant-- not just for her success rates but because she wants to help grow families.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Sandra)
Sandra is prompt on responses, and gives great updates. Sometimes it's frustrating to have questions be filtered through her-- it's hard to get an answer "straight from the horse's mouth", but Sandra does a great job interpreting answers.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Failed to order appropriate test
How was your experience with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
She's very thoughtful and comprehensive in her thinking. She tries to set expectations and gives some rationales when things don't go as plan. She's willing to think outside the box and incorporate ideas from other physicians within her practice as well as from her previous clinics and any research you bring in. She may not always follow or endorse things, but she's willing to consider it and give a rationale why she thinks it will or won't be beneficial in this scenario.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Become friends with your nurse, who will be your primary point of contact.
Describe the protocols Sara Pittenger-Reid used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
We started with an estrogen priming antagonist with hgh protocol and that cycle was converted to iui due to lack of synchronization.
Then we went to micro dose Lupron with hgh and had a chemical pregnancy (11R, 8M, 4F, transferred 2 at day 3, nothing to freeze).
We did some further work up to make sure we weren't missing anything. Our next cycle would be a micros dose Lupron with hgh again, but was canceled at baseline due to a cyst.
Final cycle was exactly like the second (MDL with HGH). We had 8 retrieved, 7 mature, 7 fertilize, 7 fabulous at day 3, all gone by day 5. Nothing to transfer or freeze.
While she does not know why we don't make blasts, she's not pushing us to cycle again. She assumes it's poor egg quality as all sperm tests came back completely normal (including DNA frag). She's now recommending donor eggs or donor sperm.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center.
12k for ivf (not including meds)
17k for freeze all with PGS (not including meds)
Describe Sara Pittenger-Reid's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
They prefer eSET, but we transferred 2 day 3 embryos. I'm not sure what they would have said if we had gotten to day 5 blasts or had any left to freeze in our case.
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10
Age
33
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Tubal Blockage, Uterine Fibroids, Unexplained
10
Well the fertility treatment is expensive. But the clinic finance-counselor Monica [at Reproductive Science Center] provided us all the details about the cost for our treatment. Also, wish that our medical insurance could cover majority of the labs & treatment fees but unfortunately that's not the case...Professional & friendly staff. Clean premises, & peaceful environment. Sometime besides doctor's help we need to have patience, and determination. You are at the right place. RSC-SJ team is dedicated & devoted towards their patients (this based on our experience).
+ Read more
Age
33
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
?
Race
South Asian
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Engineer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Tubal Blockage, Uterine Fibroids, Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Professional & friendly staff.
Clean premises, & peaceful environment.
Sometime besides doctor's help we need to have patience, and determination. You are at the right place. RSC-SJ team is dedicated & devoted towards their patients (this based on our experience).
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
My experience with Dr Wachs has been amazing so far.
Since day1 we had this connection about my situation. Each time if we have to do any procedure she will discuss that in details with us.
Thank you for being an awesome Doctor.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Lindsay Smith)
My Team at RSC-San Jose is " Team of Superwomen".
They are awesome in each & every thing.
I am proud & trust my team.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Canceled a cycle due to clinic error
How was your experience with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Wachs is a god-send angel for me. I wouldn't have known my conditions if it would not have been via Dr Wachs explanation. She has been with me in all the stages. Checking-up on me emotionally & medically.
It's rare to find a good doctor.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Be patient. Not everything is under medical/Doctor's control.
It can take a while before you get what you are looking for.
You are in good hands. Dr. Wachs will take good care of you.
Describe the protocols Deborah Wachs used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
After our first consultation visit with Dr. Wachs. We had a strategic plan to proceed further.
- Reviewed my situation
- Did some labs (MRI SCAN, Ultrasounds)
- Discusses all the labs with us
- We had to do Hysterectomy to remove uterus fibroids.
Then she purposed all the possible treatments for us
IUI, IVF
So far our journey is been hopeful & we are looking forward for the day to be blessed with a baby. It will be only possible because of Dr. Wachs & her team.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center.
Well the fertility treatment is expensive. But the clinic finance-counselor Monica provided us all the details about the cost for our treatment.
Also, wish that our medical insurance could cover majority of the labs & treatment fees but unfortunately that's not the case.
Describe Deborah Wachs's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Absolutely Dr Wachs clearly defined the singleton transfer & multiple transfer differences to us.
She strongly put her views about it.
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10
Age
42
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
—
10
RSC is very welcoming, with a comfortable atmosphere and highly competent staff. The message portal they use for communication makes getting questions answered very easy. The only negative has been in dealing with the scheduling center. In scheduling my HSG, both my case manager and nurse had contacted the scheduling center to get in touch with me several times, and it was several days before they finally contacted me. When they did, I had only three days left to schedule the HSG and they had only one day available, which did not work with my schedule. They informed me that I could have it done at another facility and they would reach out to them to get it scheduled. I assumed they meant another RSC office, but I received a message through the communication portal directing me to an Imaging Facility or the local hospital, along with the phone numbers/contact info. I was told to let them know once I had scheduled the procedure and they would send over the paperwork. I spent close to an hour on the phone trying to get an appointment at another facility. While this is certainly not the fault of RSC, it would have been helpful to have known up front what to expect.
+ Read more
Age
42
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
—
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
RSC is very welcoming, with a comfortable atmosphere and highly competent staff. The message portal they use for communication makes getting questions answered very easy.
The only negative has been in dealing with the scheduling center. In scheduling my HSG, both my case manager and nurse had contacted the scheduling center to get in touch with me several times, and it was several days before they finally contacted me. When they did, I had only three days left to schedule the HSG and they had only one day available, which did not work with my schedule. They informed me that I could have it done at another facility and they would reach out to them to get it scheduled. I assumed they meant another RSC office, but I received a message through the communication portal directing me to an Imaging Facility or the local hospital, along with the phone numbers/contact info. I was told to let them know once I had scheduled the procedure and they would send over the paperwork.
I spent close to an hour on the phone trying to get an appointment at another facility. While this is certainly not the fault of RSC, it would have been helpful to have known up front what to expect.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Rosenbluth has been very caring, kind and thorough. At the same time, he is very honest and straightforward. He was honest about the potential challenges of my treatment and the odds of success, due to my age. I feel very comfortable with him and appreciate his attention to my care on a personal level. I also appreciate that all the doctors in the practice discussed my test results and conferred with Dr. Rosenbluth's diagnoses.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center.
The nurses have been wonderful. They are very caring and compassionate and make you feel at ease. My case manager, Jennifer, has been very easy to communicate with and very thorough, answering all of my questions quickly and completely.
How was your experience with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Rosenbluth was welcoming and detailed in his explanations. He quickly put us at ease and made us feel as if we could trust him to navigate the procedures, testing, etc. We met with him during our initial consultation and ultrasound. I had my testing (blood work, HSG) at different facilities due to insurance coverage (blood work) and scheduling (HSG), but Dr. Rosenbluth followed up with me personally with the results of my testing and conferred with the other doctors at the clinic regarding my HSG results. We will soon be undergoing the remainder of treatment (MESA/TESE, IVF, ICSI, PGS, FET) and I'm very confident in the remaining care I'll receive from Dr. Rosenbluth and RSC.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Trust his knowledge, experience and suggestions. Know that he is giving you the best and worse case scenario and that he has your best interests in mind.
Describe the protocols Evan Rosenbluth used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I have yet to undergo treatment and protocols with Dr. Rosenbluth. I had an initial consultation with him and an ultrasound to count the number of follicles and determine ovarian reserve, as that would help determine whether I was a viable candidate and potential success of treatment. He was pleasantly surprised by the number of follicles present (high for my age) which was followed by positive results from blood work, suggesting a normal to high ovarian reserve. He suggested an HSG because he saw a small paratubal cyst on the ultrasound, and wanted to confirm its diagnosis.
Because my partner previously had a vasectomy many years ago, we knew he would need to undergo MESA/TESE, and we decided to have the procedure done at RSC rather than with his current urologist because we felt very comfortable and confident with Dr. Rosenbluth and RSC. Following his procedure, planned protocol/treatment is IVF, ICSI, PGS (because of my age), and FET. I have not been given an exact list of medications yet, just a probable list to contact my insurance company with.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center.
The majority of my treatment will be covered by my insurance. The exceptions are MESA/TESE ($2935), PGS ($2300, plus $1750-3000 due to the genetic testing lab directly). My medications are also covered by my insurance.
Describe Evan Rosenbluth's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
We have not discussed the number of embryos to transfer yet, it is dependent on the number of eggs they're able to retrieve, number of embryos created, and results of PGS. I know that Dr. Rosenbluth is very supportive of eSET, however, my age may make a determination for multiple embryo transfer. I trust Dr. Rosenbluth to suggest the best option in my circumstance.
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6
Age
34
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
6
My case manager was Judi Machella and she is amazing. Very efficient and very communicative. She always was there for me when I needed her and also was able to give me the information I needed whether it was emotional support or medical advise. She was so great and I would definitely recommend her as a case manager!!!...The clinics strengths is that they have really great nurses, ultrasound technicians, front desk admin help and overall good communication. Weaknesses were more in the procedure part during the egg retrieval. I felt rushed to get out of there and there could of been a little bit more compassion for what these women are going through. I understand they see so many patients a day but also it is very taxing for the patient and emotionally draining.
+ Read more
Age
34
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Entrepreneur
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
6
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The clinics strengths is that they have really great nurses, ultrasound technicians, front desk admin help and overall good communication. Weaknesses were more in the procedure part during the egg retrieval. I felt rushed to get out of there and there could of been a little bit more compassion for what these women are going through. I understand they see so many patients a day but also it is very taxing for the patient and emotionally draining.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
With Dr. Wachs I felt like a human. After discovering the unfortunate events of no embryos to transfer, Dr. Wachs and I had a conversation and she really shared with me a professional medical side and also a compassionate side as though she was a friend at the same time. It was nice and I felt comfortable with the the fact that she was knowledgable medically about what had happened but also felt my pain and was able to emphasize with me as well.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Judi )
My case manager was Judi Machella and she is amazing. Very efficient and very communicative. She always was there for me when I needed her and also was able to give me the information I needed whether it was emotional support or medical advise. She was so great and I would definitely recommend her as a case manager!!!
How was your experience with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
As a patient of Deborah Wachs, I feel we came to a better understanding of each other after the devastation of not having any embryos to transfer after gone through the first cycle. The only part I was a little frustrated with was that the multi cycle plan was not given to me as an option in the initial consultation, however I also understand that with my age and my blood work, I was considered a slam dunk to walk out with a baby through IVF. I think Dr. Wachs is a great Dr. and she is doing the best she can with the information she has.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Make sure you ask every question you can think of even if it sounds silly.
Describe the protocols Deborah Wachs used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I was on menepur and folistim for the first 4 days or so and then ganerelix for the next 4 days. These are all injectables (excuse me for the spelling of them, they may not be correct) The menepur and folistim was a shot of each every night and then a shot of the ganerelix making it a total of 3 shots a night for approx 8-10 days. It was uncomfortable starting after day 4. The egg retrieval was very painful for me a few days after. Some people are fine but I experienced major discomfort and had to take it easy for a couple weeks afterward. I did have good results with the medication and responded well. My overall egg quality could be better so for the next cycle, the Dr. wants to put me on a growth hormone.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center.
$14,000 for the IVF cycle, $2500 for PGS testing, $3710 for transfer, $4000 for medication
Describe Deborah Wachs's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
My Dr. strongly recommended only doing a single embryo transfer because I am still young and will be able to have multiple children. She also did give me the risks for multiple embryo transfer and advised against it for the first cycle.
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10
Age
35 - 37
Treated
2015 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS, Unexplained
10
Strengths [at Reproductive Science Center] : hands down the most professional clinic with the most skilled professional staff. It seems as though they specifially hand pick their employees. Not just your run of the mill hiring process, but they deliberately choose staff who are all equally compassionate, professional wonderful people. The weakness: they make it hard to leave. They give you a "graduation package" when you're ready to move onto your your regular OB. I love my OB but oh how I wish they could see me through the actual delivery process.
+ Read more
Age
35 - 37
Treated
2015 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Latino
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS, Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Strengths: hands down the most professional clinic with the most skilled professional staff. It seems as though they specifially hand pick their employees. Not just your run of the mill hiring process, but they deliberately choose staff who are all equally compassionate, professional wonderful people.
The weakness: they make it hard to leave. They give you a "graduation package" when you're ready to move onto your your regular OB. I love my OB but oh how I wish they could see me through the actual delivery process.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
As soon as he found out my HCG levels were dropping he called me personally. He's always called with Important news, good or bad. He knew I was upset and made a follow up call. When I've gone Into this very busy clinic for blood tests, he knows exactly who I am and remembers out sons names. He is the most personable doctor I've ever had.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Kat and now currently Sara)
Again, above and beyond. The classes with catherine were informative, the delivery of the meds from the pharmacy she recommended were amazing. They delivered our meds to our hotel while in dianeyland. They waited in a refrigerator until we arrived. Sara (with this current IVF cycle) has also been amazing. She was a listening ear when I miscarried. She was compassionate, sympathetic and encouraging when I needed it the most. She knows our family when we go in for labs and goes out of her way to see us before we leave. Catherine was the same way also. All around beautiful people in the right profession.
How was your experience with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr weckstein goes above and beyond to make sure the patient has a clear understanding of procedures and outcomes. He has an amazing way of keeping us informed with any risks but also keeps us positive. Not all doctors can do that. He's a wonderful communicator and has always made follow-up calls personally. If he happens to catch us in the office while doing blood work, he always stops and says hello.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Trust. Trust that he will help you make the best decision for your specific situation. He will treat you according to what your body is doing.
Describe the protocols Louis Weckstein used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
Birth control, estradiol, menopur, progesterone suppositories, baby aspirin and follistim
IVF fresh cycle, 5 day embryo. Transfered two and delivered a healthy baby boy
Describe the costs associated with your care under Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center.
Roughly
12,000 IVF
1800 icsi
2500 meds
Describe Louis Weckstein's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
He told us the benefits of eset and the complications that could arise with transferring multiple embryos If they took. We'd tried for so many years we were willing to take the chance of multiples.
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10
Age
29 - 30
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis, PCOS, Immunological
10
I loved everything about this office [Reproductive Science Center] ! The receptionist Suzi would always greet me in the lobby and make sure I was all checked in. The lab staff who drew my blood were fast and efficient and took time to get to know me, and make me comfortable. All of the nurses are so friendly and helpful and all of the doctors are amazing! They are organized, compassionate, and great at what they do!...Judi [nurse] was AWESOME! She would respond to my emails within minutes! She was so patient with all of my questions, and cared deeply about each of her patients!
+ Read more
Age
29 - 30
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis, PCOS, Immunological
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
I loved everything about this office! The receptionist Suzi would always greet me in the lobby and make sure I was all checked in. The lab staff who drew my blood were fast and efficient and took time to get to know me, and make me comfortable. All of the nurses are so friendly and helpful and all of the doctors are amazing! They are organized, compassionate, and great at what they do!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Wach's was so sweet and greeted us with a warm smile and a hug on each visit. We had to try several different approaches to my treatment but she never gave up and was very understanding of what an emotional and frustrating process this could be. She was realistic in helping us make decisions and very kind through the whole process.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Judi mecchella)
Judi was AWESOME! She would respond to my emails within minutes! She was so patient with all of my questions, and cared deeply about each of her patients!
How was your experience with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Wach's was everything I wanted in my fertility doctor. She was patient, kind, caring, compassionate and knowledgeable. She never gave up on me and always had more ideas of new techniques to try and tweak. As a patient I would always come in emotional and frantic and she would always manage to calm me down and keep my goals realistic, while comforting me in the fact that we still had several options. I would do my own research and bring her pages of notes and questions and she was knowledgeable on each of the studies I had found and explained why or why not each one would or would not work for my case. She was always put together well and her love for her job showed always, even through the holidays where you would expect her to be taking time off to spend with family, she was in the office, taking care of me. I have and will continue to recommend her to anyone who is going through infertility and I will definitely use her again for baby number two!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Be positive and don't give up!
Describe the protocols Deborah Wachs used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
My first cycle we used gonal and menopur and triggered 72 hours before my transfer. My second cycle we added Lupron in hopes of growing more eggs to be fully mature. I had an endometrial receptivity test which showed us we were doing our transfer after my personal window so we adjusted my transfers after that. She ended up putting me on progesterone and the blood thinner injections in order to increase my chances of implantation. Finally on our fourth try we combined everything and had success!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center.
We used the attain package which I believe was about 25k, we used a company called capex md to finance it. Our medications and other procedures totaled around 18k so in total we spent around 43k
Describe Deborah Wachs's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
In the beginning while we were still learning how my body would react she encouraged a single embryo transfer and showed us that the reason they encourage that is it is lower risk than carrying multiples. Once we realized I wasn't a fertile mertile, she was more open to us transferring two embryo's at a time, which we tried for one cycle and were not successful.
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8
Age
38 - 39
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
4 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
—
8
Strengths [of Reproductive Science Center] are the nursing staff, the weakness might be that they don't use the latest technology but not entirely sure about that...The case manager and nurses are great. Very good communicators, excellent at providing info, polite and will definitely reply asap. I don't always communicate with the same person each time, but it looks like they are organized but I am getting things done and that's all I really need in the end.
+ Read more
Age
38 - 39
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
No
Race
South Asian
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Operations
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
4 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
—
8
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Strengths are the nursing staff, the weakness might be that they don't use the latest technology but not entirely sure about that.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
I felt human bc I did meet with the Doctor when it mattered most. Only doctors performed my IUI, egg retrievals and consultations. I understand my doctor does not need to be available to me 24/7 and I certainly don't need her to be measuring my follicles. She called me at the appropriate times and when I needed to get in contact with her, she was available. I also don't need to be coddled during this process, I just need the doctor to know what she's doing and just give it to me straight so I can move forward or move on. I think Dr. Wachs is a straight shooter and for those who need a more delicate touch, I think Dr. Wachs could be more personable but in the end, results are what matter.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Carla Roa)
The case manager and nurses are great. Very good communicators, excellent at providing info, polite and will definitely reply asap. I don't always communicate with the same person each time, but it looks like they are organized but I am getting things done and that's all I really need in the end.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Provided conflicting information
How was your experience with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
My experience with Dr. Wachs has been good so far. Like I said before, she's a straight shooter and will be there if you need her. I have had only 1 IVF cycle and though she didn't perform the retrieval I understand these clinics "share" patients. I am still hopeful IVF with RSC will work for me.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Be patient and don't expect to be coddled, she will give it to you straight. She's not cold or has a poor bedside manner but she is a person and I can tell she does want to help!
Describe the protocols Deborah Wachs used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I used BCP, Gonal, Menopur and Cetrotide for first IVF cycle. No eggs passed PGS. This time I used BCP again but Dr. Wachs changed the allocation of Gonal and Menopur, and added Omnitrope. Hopefully this will be the one that works!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center.
I have help with insurance so it wasn't too bad. They paid about 50% of treatment and part of the medications.
Describe Deborah Wachs's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
No comments bc I'm doing PGS.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
9
Age
42
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality
9
My care coordinator [at RSC] overall was very communicative, quick at responding to any questions, and explaining what the next steps were. When it came to my prescriptions the were a few bumps, I was told my prescription for birth control pills was called in, the pharmacy did not yet have the prescription. This was straightened out the next day. When stimulation meds list was ordered one of the meds was left out, which I happened to notice while taking with the pharmacist. This was fixed the same day.
+ Read more
Age
42
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Latino
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality
9
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
While under the care of RSC my doctor, nursing staff, and reception desk personal were all very supportive. The ultrasounds examination results were explained to me at every visit so I knew my progress immediately. They held a class with instruction and demonstration on how to administer the hormone stimulation meds, making sure we were comfortable before leaving class. Dr. Wachs clearly explained treatment steps and possible outcomes prior to starting treatment.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Going through IVF treatments can be stressful, painful, and demanding. Dr. Wachs's professionalism, expertise and high quality of care along with the constant communication, honesty, and guidance made the entire process more pleasant and felt much more manageable. She is warm and supportive which has made a world of difference.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Lindsay Smith)
My care coordinator overall was very communicative, quick at responding to any questions, and explaining what the next steps were.
When it came to my prescriptions the were a few bumps, I was told my prescription for birth control pills was called in, the pharmacy did not yet have the prescription. This was straightened out the next day. When stimulation meds list was ordered one of the meds was left out, which I happened to notice while taking with the pharmacist. This was fixed the same day.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
How was your experience with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
In my experience Dr. Wachs is kind, compassionate, and very knowlegable. After the consultation with Dr. Wachs, we were able to get started with the process of IVF very soon after which is for me at age 42 very important. First round we had 2 eggs tested for chromosomal abnormalities, sadly neither came back normal.
When Dr. Wachs called to convey the bad news her compassion really came through along with leaving me with a feeling of hope for success with future treatment. We are seeking further treatment with Dr. Wachs who will be adjusting accordingly.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Start preparing your body for IVF in at least 3 months in advance. You can do this by eating a well balanced diet consisting of healthy foods, exercising regularly, and taking a prenatal vitamin along with CO - Q10.
Describe the protocols Deborah Wachs used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I was put on the Agonist protocol, 11 days of stimulation meds, we also used ICSI to fertilize the eggs.
I was on the following medications:
Micro-dose Lupron 10 units subcutaneously twice daily, once in AM and once in PM.
FSH (Gonal F) 300 units subcutaneously in the AM.
Please continue Menopur 150 units subcutaneously in the PM.
and Prenatal vitamin daily.
We sent the two embryos off for PGS testing and sadly both were abnormal.
The treatment up to that point was going well and it would have been nice to have more then two embryos make it to PGS testing. The doctor will adjust treatment for the next round in hopes to have more embryos to be tested.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center.
Total of $24,000.00
$17,450.00 IVF Cycle, ICSI, Retrieval, Biopsy, and Implantation.
$2,200.00 PGS genetic testing
$4,000.00 Medications
Describe Deborah Wachs's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
We have not made it to a transfer yet, but we were told by Dr. Wachs at the initial visit that the goal is to transfer one healthy PGS tested embryo.
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10
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
he clinic [Reproductive Science Center] is very well organized. All the nurses and staff are very friendly and willing to answer questions. When we started each different course of treatment (IUI vs IVF) we were required to watch videos explaining the treatment. At first I was a bit resentful of having to watch videos about our treatment but they were actually very educational and helpful! The only drawback of this location is that although M-F I was seen at the Foster City location, you have to go to their main location in San Ramon on weekends and holidays. That location is very nice though so all in all not a bad drawback.
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Age
35 - 36
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Investment Banker
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The clinic is very well organized. All the nurses and staff are very friendly and willing to answer questions.
When we started each different course of treatment (IUI vs IVF) we were required to watch videos explaining the treatment. At first I was a bit resentful of having to watch videos about our treatment but they were actually very educational and helpful!
The only drawback of this location is that although M-F I was seen at the Foster City location, you have to go to their main location in San Ramon on weekends and holidays. That location is very nice though so all in all not a bad drawback.
How was your experience with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Reid was amazing throughout this process. We started our treatment with IUI and after 2 unsuccessul rounds we wanted to change courses. Dr. Reid throughly explained our other options and supported us with all options. She was neutral throughout the decision making process and did not push us one way or the other.
We ended up choosing to do IVF and were so happy we did. She was kind and patient with all of our many questions and helped us understand what to expect along the way. She made sure to schedule us on a day when she was doing embryo transfers so we could see her familiar face. At every step of our journey she impressed us with her compassion for what we were going through and knowledge of her field!
We are now expecting a healthy baby boy and are thrilled with our decision to seek treatment from Dr. Reid.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center.
We had an insurance benefit through Progeny and Dr. Reid's clinic was one of the clinics they recommended and was covered through our insurance benefit.
Describe Sara Pittenger-Reid's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Dr. Reid explained that they support eSET in most cases especially ours. After understanding the risks that accompany multiples I can understand their support of this practice.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
We found everything perfect about the clinic [Reproductive Science Center] . The best thing about it is that they were always on schedule and they never wasted our time...Patti and all the staff were awesome, they were on top of my case and knew every detail without looking at my file all the time. They were considerate, loving, caring and understanding...We knew all the risks and chances of success associated with the treatment yet we were never in doubt just because of Dr. Homer's positive attitude. With only 1 healthy embryo at hand, it was him who showed confidence in our confidence to move forward with the transfer cycle. We were lucky that it worked out for us but if it hadn't, our feedback about him wouldn't have changed. My message to everyone who is looking for an IVF treatment is that "Dr Homer is someone who you can rely on and he will do everything whats necessary and right for you and you would never feel that your efforts were for nothing." He is very considerate, spends time in understanding their patients, and has sense of humor which will light your bad day. He smiles at problems which gives you confidence that no matter what you can get thro
+ Read more
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
We found everything perfect about the clinic. The best thing about it is that they were always on schedule and they never wasted our time
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
He was considerate, understanding and professional yet very friendly.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Patty Roberts )
Patti and all the staff were awesome, they were on top of my case and knew every detail without looking at my file all the time. They were considerate, loving, caring and understanding
How was your experience with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Homer is the best. Me and my husband were fortunate that we found him. Since the very first appointment, we found him very considerate, professional and yet very friendly. He was very transparent,always answered all of questions(which i did ask a lot, thanks to google), understanding and honest. We knew all the risks and chances of success associated with the treatment yet we were never in doubt just because of Dr. Homer's positive attitude. With only 1 healthy embryo at hand, it was him who showed confidence in our confidence to move forward with the transfer cycle. We were lucky that it worked out for us but if it hadn't, our feedback about him wouldn't have changed.
My message to everyone who is looking for an IVF treatment is that "Dr Homer is someone who you can rely on and he will do everything whats necessary and right for you and you would never feel that your efforts were for nothing."
He is very considerate, spends time in understanding their patients, and has sense of humor which will light your bad day. He smiles at problems which gives you confidence that no matter what you can get through every problem.I believe doctors should know it all yet they should not be so overpowering that you can't confide in them with your silliest of things, your fears and your apprehensions which with Doctor Homer i never felt that way, all i can say he is the best thing that happened for my IVF journey.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Be honest and forthcoming with him and do let him know your expectations about the treatment so that he can have all the information and decide the best course of treatment for you
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9
Age
39
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
9
Judi [nurse at Reproductive Science Center] and the staff were amazing. Judi is extremely knowledgeable on the entire process and was very caring, patient and kind through the whole thing. I was always able to get a hold of someone whether it was about appts (which you have a lot of) test results, dealing with insurance, medications etc...the Finance department could use a little help...We did PGS testing on our embryos and since we did not want twins, Dr. Homer strongly recommended against transferring 2 PGS tested embryos and sufficiently educated us on the trade offs of both situations.
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Age
39
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European, East Asian
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
9
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
I started back in 2017 and the clinic was in transition to the new location in Los Gatos. I had a few appts in San Ramon which would have been nice to have done closer to home (San Jose). I had a great experience with Judi and the nurses but the Finance department could use a little help.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Homer was great. I instantly felt comfortable and in good hands when we had our first consult. He was patient, took his time explaining things, and had good humor through a very personal and difficult journey.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Judi Mecchella)
Judi and the staff were amazing. Judi is extremely knowledgeable on the entire process and was very caring, patient and kind through the whole thing. I was always able to get a hold of someone whether it was about appts (which you have a lot of) test results, dealing with insurance, medications etc...
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
How was your experience with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
I feel very lucky to have had Dr. Homer as my doctor. Since the first meeting I knew I was in good hands. I had lots and lots of questions and he was able to answer everything. He was very professional yet had the sense of humor you really need to get through this process - some doctors can be too serious making an already difficult experience worse. My husband and I both felt very comfortable with Dr. Homer. He really took the extra time and steps to make sure we had the best chances for a successful IVF journey. I have already recommended a few people to Dr. Homer and will continue to do so!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Just be very transparent with what your expectations are and do not be afraid to ask LOTS of questions or joke a bit and make light of things : )
Describe Michael Vance Homer's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
We did PGS testing on our embryos and since we did not want twins, Dr. Homer strongly recommended against transferring 2 PGS tested embryos and sufficiently educated us on the trade offs of both situations.
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10
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
—
10
Overall a good experience. RSC has good facilities, and the San Jose office is at a convenient location. Nurses were great. Judi was on top off things. The only thing that I would like to see improvement is the financial department. We keep getting bills that was not correct....Dr. Homer is professional yet have a sense of humor. He is knowledgable yet very friendly. And he is also considerate and have a good bedside manner.... I was very happy to graduate from RSC, yet was sad to leave
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Age
31 - 32
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
—
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Overall a good experience. RSC has good facilities, and the San Jose office is at a convenient location. Nurses were great. Judi was on top off things. The only thing that I would like to see improvement is the financial department. We keep getting bills that was not correct.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Homer is professional yet have a sense of humor. He is knowledgable yet very friendly. And he is also considerate and have a good bedside manner.
How was your experience with Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
We met Dr. Homer after trying for more than 2 years without success. Before we met, I was skeptical. I worried that he was too young and inexperienced. But he quickly proved me wrong. He answered all our questions and concerns, explained to us all our options (IUI and IVF) with risk and success rate, and suggested us to go with IUI first. During our treatment, he found out that I had polyps in the uterus, which caused me to bleed in between periods and reduced my success rate. After a successful surgery performed by Dr. Homer and 2 failing IUI, we decided to move on to IVF. We got 3 healthy embryos and one of them got transferred successfully. Me and my husband were ecstatic. After trying for 3 years, our dream had finally come true, thanks to Dr. Homer. He was very professional, knowledgable, yet very friendly and funny. He also had wonderful bedside manner. I was very happy to graduate from RSC, yet was sad to leave Dr. Homer. Hopefully we will see him again for our next baby in about 2 years. I would recommend Dr. Homer to everyone who considers infertility treatment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Vance Homer at Reproductive Science Center?
Don't wait, call Dr. Homer now.
Describe Michael Vance Homer's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Dr. Homer strong suggested us to do single embryo transfer due to the success rate being >60% and the risk of having twins with multiple embryo transfer.
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10
Age
39 - 40
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
12 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
Clinic [Reproductive Science Center] is ran very smoothly. There are several nurses and doctors so if your Dr/Nurse is not available someone else will be. They are willing to work with your schedule, if you "need" to be seen on a day that your doctor is off, they will find someone to see you.... We started on estrace, vitamin D, then progesterone shots, and progesterone inserts. Continued meds until week 9 of pregnancy, then tapered off. I am currently 17 weeks pregnant with a singleton.
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Age
39 - 40
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Business Executive
Order & Number of Docs Seen
3rd of 4 Docs
Treatment
12 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Clinic is ran very smoothly. There are several nurses and doctors so if your Dr/Nurse is not available someone else will be. They are willing to work with your schedule, if you "need" to be seen on a day that your doctor is off, they will find someone to see you.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Weckstein felt like my dad. He seemed concerned over my concerns and wanted to make me feel completely comfortable. I was debating about PGS testing and he said, if you were my wife going through this I would say it's unnecessary. I appreciated his honesty and that he put himself in my shoes.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center.
Always willing to chat, responded quickly to e-mails, went over shots with husband even though we didn't have a scheduled appointment. The last week of progesterone inserts I was not comfortable using the ones that the pharmacy had sent (they were red) so they supplied me (at no charge) a weeks worth of inserts that were white to ease my mind.
How was your experience with Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Weckstein was kind and supportive in the whole process. He was optimistic, which at times was hard (due to a cycle previously not taking and miscarriages) but was appreciated. He walked me through each possible step and possibly outcomes. I felt that he truly cared about me as a person, not just a patient.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center?
To not be in a rush. He walks through everything in a slow calm manner, I am not a slow manner type person and it took me a minute to calm down. I was always wanting to rush through each appointment, he was patient and thorough.
Describe the protocols Louis Weckstein used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
We did FET. We started on estrace, vitamin D, then progesterone shots, and progesterone inserts. Continued meds until week 9 of pregnancy, then tapered off. I am currently 17 weeks pregnant with a singleton.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Louis Weckstein at Reproductive Science Center.
We had FET and total cost, not including medications, was around $5K.
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9
Age
28
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
—
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
9
The doctors, case managers, finance department, etc. all do very specific things and I don't think that they are streamlined together very well, which makes it difficult for the patient to manage all the moving pieces. You don't usually see your case managers or financial advisers in person-all the communication is over the phone and/or email which is impersonal and difficult to ensure that you are getting the best care you can.
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Age
28
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
No
Race
—
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
—
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
9
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
They have a high success rate, you can make appointments for everything and you don't have to wait very long usually. They have a number of offices and try to make your appointments at the closest one to you. They have a number of financial packages- they even refunded us money that we did not use because our two ivf cycles were cut short towards our next egg donor ivf cycle.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
My husband and I feel that Dr. Rosenbluth cares about us and is genuinely interested in helping us meet our goals. Unfortunately, the nurses are managing to many patients and I found often did not have a good grasp on the specifics of my case. On the flip side, I spoke to Dr. Rosenbluth about my concerns and after that I have not had any negative experiences with the nurses.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Valerie)
The doctors, case managers, finance department, etc. all do very specific things and I don't think that they are streamlined together very well, which makes it difficult for the patient to manage all the moving pieces. You don't usually see your case managers or financial advisers in person-all the communication is over the phone and/or email which is impersonal and difficult to ensure that you are getting the best care you can.
I did not feel that my case manager understood the specifics of my unusual case but when I shared my concerns with the doctor my case manager switched and I was much happier with the level of care.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Provided conflicting information
- Failed to convey critical information
How was your experience with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
He genuinely cares about each patient and wants to help them reach their fertility goals. I think he could do an even better job with mapping out all the different aspects and requirements of the entire procedures, or have someone else (a case manager) meet with the patients right after meeting with him to explain the ebb and flow.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
When you don't understand something or you are concerned about something, let him or the staff know. If you are not satisfied with how your case is being or was handled tell him-he genuinely wants to make his practice better.
Describe the protocols Evan Rosenbluth used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
We decided to do 2 back to back cycles first with a lot of meds and see if we got any eggs or how many and then do a second one if we got none or some with a lower dosage of meds. Unfortunately, I did not react well to either cycle and stopped before the retrieval as I would not have gotten more than one egg.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center.
14,000 for general IVF cycle with the addition of medications and PGD testing from lab. As I mentioned before, there was an option to pay through a special program that I believe makes it more affordable for many. However, because our chances were so low for success we decided to pay directly to the clinic as they promised to refund us any money we did not use.
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10
Age
28 - 29
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
RSC was amazing. The only downside for us was the commute (1.5 hrs) but they were willing to consolidate appointments and really helped develope as easy a schedule as they could with my work schedule. The main procedure clinic was very nice, clean, professional. Fantastic service and care. Limited wait times! My one beef with RSC is their phone system. If I never have to hear that hold music again I’ll be a happy woman.
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Age
28 - 29
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
RSC was amazing. The only downside for us was the commute (1.5 hrs) but they were willing to consolidate appointments and really helped develope as easy a schedule as they could with my work schedule. The main procedure clinic was very nice, clean, professional. Fantastic service and care. Limited wait times!
My one beef with RSC is their phone system. If I never have to hear that hold music again I’ll be a happy woman.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Her care was specific, sincere and thoughtful to me specifically.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Patty)
The whole staff at RSC was so amazing. Helped us anyway they could, sent emails checking in, just a wonderful group to work with
How was your experience with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
She’s smart, to the point, but kind and caring. Perfect blend of compassion and professionalism. I would gladly work with her again, she made our whole process seem logical and never forced us or pushed us. We had a lot of say in our care
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Recognize that it’s impossible not to be emotional but that Dr Wachs is doing everything she can to help you conceive
Describe the protocols Deborah Wachs used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
The one issue I had was I became hyper stimulated in prep for my egg retrieval and was unable to do a live transfer. This prompted us to have to freeze all the embryos instead. One thing I would have preferred in this situation was some discussion prior to ensimination of my retrieves eggs. I had a LOT of good eggs retrieved, and in hindsight, would have preferred we not ensiminate all of them. I would have liked some eggs alone in case we chose to donate them or use other sperm. Having 28 embryos didn’t help me too much... I mean, it was a good problem to have but I would have liked to discuss options. Nonetheless, Dr Wachs shifted us to the FET process and did a good job explaining it and also gave us an opportunity to do PGS. This turned out to be a big benifif for us due to a tight time line I was on to get pregnant. Overall i was really happy with this medical advice.
Also- Dr Wachs was pretty blunt when she discovered that I had PCOS that IUI was probably not going to work. Making the choice to switch to IVF early (after 3 IUI) was good for us, also with our dwindling sperm supply. I was very happy with her candid advice and direction but I never felt pressured to do anything.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center.
About 13,000
Describe Deborah Wachs's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Super happy we did eSET. My eggs/embryos were high quality and I was young (28) so her advice for eSET was best for us. I’m glad the clinic was very clear on this policy because I think the desire to get pregnant immediately can cloud people’s judgement on the risk/burden of twins.
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10
Age
30 - 31
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
—
10
There are multiple doctors at this clinic [RSC-Foster City], with multiple locations. They have a main office located in East Bay, where all of their procedures and done. This means that your primary doctor may not be the one to do your egg retrieval or transfer. This wasn’t a worry for us, all of the doctors were wonderful to us, but may be to some. Dr Reid was able to schedule our FET when she would be working in the clinic, which as lovely.
+ Read more
Age
30 - 31
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
—
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
There are multiple doctors at this clinic, with multiple locations. They have a main office located in East Bay, where all of their procedures and done. This means that your primary doctor may not be the one to do your egg retrieval or transfer. This wasn’t a worry for us, all of the doctors were wonderful to us, but may be to some.
Dr Reid was able to schedule our FET when she would be working in the clinic, which as lovely.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
She provided my husband and I with answers for any questions we had, support when needed, was there for us 100% of the way through our treatments. We truly felt like she was rooting for us.
Further to that, when we lost our twins (23 weeks into my first pregnancy from our fresh cycle) she truly cared and tried to help us find a reason, even though she didn’t need to.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Laura Rueckheim)
Laura is an incredible communicator and quickly returns phone calls. She answers questions easily and will quickly get back to you if she is unsure of an answer. She also did our injection class and the information she provided was so helpful and made our nightly injections go so much smoother.
She is compassionate and caring and incredibly excited for us during our cycles and subsequent pregnancies.
How was your experience with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
From our very first appointment, my husband and I felt like we understood the plan Dr. Reid had for us. Any questions we had were answered clearly and completely. Throughout my treatment she was there to answer any questions quickly for us and we never felt like we were wandering blindly.
We lost our twins from our first transfer at 23 weeks, and truly felt like she cared for us and them, going as far as providing us with some information about what happened so that we could understand th medical side better.
We started our FET protocol 3 months later and she was so supportive and helpful.
We could not have asked for a better doctor.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
The same as I would tell anyone considering fertility treatments, ask questions. Lots of questions. Do you own research and understand what you are putting your body through.
Describe the protocols Sara Pittenger-Reid used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I don’t remember much about our fresh cycle, only that I had a great response to all of the medications I was given and my body produced plenty of healthy eggs. I did have nausea as a side effect, but in my opinion, that was par for the course.
My egg retrieval went very well, 21 eggs retrieved and ICSI was used to inseminate. Because of poor sperm quality we had 4 good quality embryos, 2 of which were transferred on day 5, while 2 were frozen.
The two that were transferred, resulted in perfectly healthy boy/girl twins. Unfortunately, due to preterm labor and rupture, they were born far too early at 23 weeks.
We began FET protocol roughly 3 month later, once I was cleared by my OB. I was on estrogen to suppress my ovaries and boost my lining. I was also started on progesterone suppositories but switched to progesterone in oil shots, as I was finding the mess from the suppositories too much. My Frozen embryo transfer resulted in a healthy baby girl, born at 39 weeks exactly.
Describe Sara Pittenger-Reid's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Single transfer was much more preferred by Dr Reid, using multiple transfers for specific reasons such as egg and/or embryo quality and maternal age. She explained that multiple pregnancies come with high risks that need to be weighed out carefully.
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10
Age
31
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Other
10
[At RSC] You have one doctors, but other doctors may help with care/procedures depending on timing and what that doctor's strengths are. They use a Team Care approach. - Strength - Experience and quality of doctors and care staff - Weakness - Busy at times, may need to wait to get a new patient consult, but once you are a patient things move a bit quicker. Probably a bit pricey (but we did not compare with other local clinics), worth the money! - As the doctors are often dealing with many patients and different situations, communication with your case manager is key. They will be your primary touch point throughout the cycle. - If you want to speak with the doctor instead of a nurse or case manager, just ask! - The informational IVF nurse was also a great resource when I need to ask a question about diet, activity, medicine, etc... during the cycle.
+ Read more
Age
31
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$500K
Occupation
Sales Representative
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Other
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
- You have one doctors, but other doctors may help with care/procedures depending on timing and what that doctor's strengths are. They use a Team Care approach.
- Strength - Experience and quality of doctors and care staff
- Weakness - Busy at times, may need to wait to get a new patient consult, but once you are a patient things move a bit quicker. Probably a bit pricey (but we did not compare with other local clinics), worth the money!
- As the doctors are often dealing with many patients and different situations, communication with your case manager is key. They will be your primary touch point throughout the cycle.
- If you want to speak with the doctor instead of a nurse or case manager, just ask!
- The informational IVF nurse was also a great resource when I need to ask a question about diet, activity, medicine, etc... during the cycle.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Care was tailored to our situation, always listened to our questions and concerns and responded thoughtfully. Made himself available for a call or two during off hours.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Efficient, timely, compassionate and good at sharing results as they went.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Provided conflicting information
How was your experience with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Strengths: compassionate, good communicator, good bedside manner, experienced
Weaknesses: Some routine care and procedures at this clinic are taken on by the other doctors, not just your doctor. For example, my doctor did not do my egg retrieval. However, this is done in part to ensure that each doctor is working on their strongest procedures and helps with the on-call process. Not really a weakness, unless you want your doctor to be doing every procedure.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Double check everything when it comes to dosages and meds with your case manager. Especially when they are altered or changed mid cycle. In doubt... call! I had a small miscommunication with my case manager (not the doctor), and it put my cycle in jeopardy. Luckily everything worked out. You can't be too careful with this sort of investment!
Describe the protocols Evan Rosenbluth used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
Fairly standard protocol, no agonists. Did use birth control for 1-2 weeks prior to starting stims. Had plans to freeze any resulting blastocysts, so our goal was to stimulate with the hopes of getting as many eggs as possible (Menopur, Gonal-F were used, cetrotide and lupron trigger). ICSI used for fertilization (28 of 33 fertilized). All resulting day 5/6 blasts (12) were biopsied for PGS at day 5/6 and frozen the same day. Transfer - drugs, estrace and PIO. Single embryo transferred, resulting in singleton pregnancy.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center.
I owed 10% co-insurance on all related procedures. I don't remember exact costs, but they were ultimately around $1500-$2000 all in, plus $4000 for PGS (with another company)
Describe Evan Rosenbluth's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
1 was suggested based on known quality of embyro (PGS normal) and past success in achieving pregnancy
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10
Age
34 - 35
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF, 1 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
The staff is so great at RSC in San Jose. My one suggestion would be to upgrade the facility (especially in comparison to the other RSC facilities) if possible...Very easy - I was told up front that I would have to schedule between 7-9 AM and the calendar I was given by my nurse told me when you begin to block my personal calendar to prepare accordingly. Each time I needed to schedule, I was able to get the time I needed without a problem...
+ Read more
Age
34 - 35
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Operations
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 3 Docs
Treatment
1 IVF, 1 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The staff is so great at RSC in San Jose. My one suggestion would be to upgrade the facility (especially in comparison to the other RSC facilities) if possible.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Reid (and her nurse Laura) personalized and humanized the entire process. They were patient with me and took the time to understand what I was needed and how I could best be supported during the processes. During my first cycle (which had to be canceled), their follow up was so genuine. You could tell in their conversations that my set back was also theirs based on their words and actions (emails, phone calls, office visits).
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Laura Ruckheim )
Laura is incredible. She is caring, organized, compassionate and very easy to talk to. You truly feel like she wants her patients to become pregnant. When things got difficult, I felt nothing but support from Laura. She is literally the best!
How was your experience with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Reid is the best doctor I have ever worked with. Her care and concern for her patients is incredible. She has a great ability to connect with her patients and clearly understand things in a way that is easy to comprehend. I feel lucky to have been/continue to be in her care. I know she will always be routing for the best outcome for me and my family.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
My piece of advice would be to request her directly. The RSC practice is set up to have patients see a number of care givers throughout the bay area - my advice would be to select Dr. Reid as your doctor, even if that means driving to Foster City to be her patient.
Describe the protocols Sara Pittenger-Reid used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
First Cycle was intended to be an egg preservation cycle. I used Menopor/Gonal F; by day 11 of injections my follicles were not growing anymore and the decision was made to cancel this cycle.
Second Cycle was interned to be a fresh transfer/embryo freeze. I used Lupron Injections during the cycle and stimulated with Menopor/Gonal F and then added a growth hormone during the last 6 days of injections. Result - 11 eggs retrieved; 8 mature; 6 fertilized; 4 became embryos - 1 Fresh Transfer (Miscarried after 7 weeks), 3 embryos frozen. PGS done.
Third Cycle; Frozen Transfer - haven't done yet.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Reproductive Science Center.
Very easy - I was told up front that I would have to schedule between 7-9 AM and the calendar I was given by my nurse told me when you begin to block my personal calendar to prepare accordingly. Each time I needed to schedule, I was able to get the time I needed without a problem.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center.
There were set fees for each process and I was set up with a financial counselor to discuss the fees/structure. She was very helpful.
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0
Age
45 - 46
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
4 IVF, Donor Eggs, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
—
0
He's [Dr. Evan Rosenbluth] a good doctor, but the nature of the business is that you need to be the squeaky wheel in order for the doctor or other staff to pay attention to you and your case. Otherwise, expect for things to fall through the cracks and mistakes to happen. Especially speak up if your case manger is not returning your calls or emails in a timely manner...Phone calls and emails were not responded to in a timely manner. Adriana was overworked and neglected to communicate important information to my egg donor. She also told her incorrect information, which caused my donor anxiety during the egg retrieval process. For example, she told my egg donor she would only be given a twilight anesthesia and not be put under. This was not the case. She was given general anesthesia. Adriana also gave incorrect medication instructions to my egg donor. The errors and inconsistencies almost caused my egg donor to back out of the whole process. Adriana did not give my donor confidence that the clinic knew what they were doing.
+ Read more
Age
45 - 46
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
No
Race
East Asian
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 3 Docs
Treatment
4 IVF, Donor Eggs, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
—
0
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
RSC is made up of 4 locations and many doctors, nurses and staff, all of whom cover for one another on any given day. Thus, the opportunities for miscommunication are great. The staff seem overworked and poorly trained. For example, when I went in for appointments, they accidentally called my egg donor's name instead of mine. Consistent protocols do not seem to be in place. For example, Dr Rosenbluth was not aware of protocols for the egg donor process and gave me incorrect information about whether my egg donor should be present in certain meetings or not. The records department also neglected to transfer my medical records to my obgyn after I filed more than one records request.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
The staff didn't know my name even though it's a small office. I had trouble getting my calls or emails returned in a timely manner, or even at all, especially from the finance office. Only the squeekie wheel gets the grease.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Adriana)
Phone calls and emails were not responded to in a timely manner. Adriana was overworked and neglected to communicate important information to my egg donor. She also told her incorrect information, which caused my donor anxiety during the egg retrieval process. For example, she told my egg donor she would only be given a twilight anesthesia and not be put under. This was not the case. She was given general anesthesia. Adriana also gave incorrect medication instructions to my egg donor. The errors and inconsistencies almost caused my egg donor to back out of the whole process. Adriana did not give my donor confidence that the clinic knew what they were doing.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Lost paperwork
- Failed to order appropriate test
- Failed to send your chart to another clinic
- Provided conflicting information
- Failed to convey critical information
- Failed to consider drug intolerance
How was your experience with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
He's a nice person and a good communicator, but he wasn't paying attention to my health and medications prior to my donor egg embryo transfer, which likely caused it to be unsuccessful. For example, he neglected to inform me that I shouldn't be taking antihistamines prior to my transfer until I asked during my actual transfer. Too late. He and my case manager neglected to pay attention to the fact that my allergies were flared up to the point that steroids were needed to treat them. I never should have moved forward with my first FET, which proved unsuccessful. The success rate for a PGD tested donor embryo is 70%, according to the clinic and genetic testing company.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
He's a good doctor, but the nature of the business is that you need to be the squeaky wheel in order for the doctor or other staff to pay attention to you and your case. Otherwise, expect for things to fall through the cracks and mistakes to happen. Especially speak up if your case manger is not returning your calls or emails in a timely manner.
Describe the protocols Evan Rosenbluth used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
My egg donor was given a straightforward protocol of Menopur, Follistim and Gonal F. 27 eggs were retrieved, 21 were mature. 15 eggs were fertilized, 6 were frozen. Out of the 15 eggs, 7 made it to Day 5 or 6 for PGD testing. Out of the 7 embryos, 5 were normal.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center.
They were lower than rates at UCSF. I know that from a friend who also did donor egg with PGD testing. Though my costly could have been lower since my egg donor was a friend of mine and I didn't have to pay an agency fee.
Describe Evan Rosenbluth's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
He recommended transferring one embryo only, which I agreed with since they were PGD tested.
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10
Age
30
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor
10
Strengths - they [RSC] don't feel like a factory. They don't put all women on the same cycle. They don't batch women. You don't get one doctor - you get a whole team. They have a team of doctors who conference on your case every day adn then they get back to you with any treatment changes. I loved having multiple heads think together. Weakness - I guess if you want to see your doctor at every visit that is a weakness b/c that doesn't happen here.
+ Read more
Age
30
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Strengths - they don't feel like a factory. They don't put all women on the same cycle. They don't batch women. You don't get one doctor - you get a whole team. They have a team of doctors who conference on your case every day adn then they get back to you with any treatment changes. I loved having multiple heads think together.
Weakness - I guess if you want to see your doctor at every visit that is a weakness b/c that doesn't happen here.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Wachs was kind, funny, and spent tons of time with me on the phone helping me to think through various decisions (e.g., genetic testing for my husband and me, PGS testing, etc.). She took the time to explain everything to me but never talked down to me. I also loved her personality; she's someone I would like to hang out with and be friends with!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Judi M.)
So personable. She had personally gone through IVF and could relate to the process. She cared a lot about our outcome. She also knew a lot about the IVF process and could answer questions. She always followed-up with me on the same day if I had any questions that she needed to get back to me about.
How was your experience with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
I can't think of any weaknesses. I'd recommend her to anyone. She seemed very thoughtful and thorough while being very easy to relate to. I felt like she really cared about the outcome of our trial - and not just b/c good numbers make her look good but because she cared about us as wanna-be-parents!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Tell her all of your fears and all of your questions because she will take time to answer and explain everything.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center.
I believe a bit above 15K
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2
Age
40 - 41
Treated
2014 - 2015
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
11 IUI, 1 IVF, Donor Eggs, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Unexplained
2
We only saw Dr Willman occasionally to review our case (we were a "case") and a few times for baseline or sonograms. Otherwise I had an assigned case manager [at Reproductive Science Center] who couldn't answer questions (would only repeat information we already had) and had to be pressed to ask the doctors to get new information, communication was always at least one day behind, billing was a complete mess (we ended up with a refund because of over-payments?!). IUIs, egg retrieval, and fresh transfers were never with Dr Willman always someone else who was on call. She didn't always really think through how to communicate Before our one and only IVF transfer as the embryos were developing, she left me a voicemail late on a Friday afternoon to say she wanted to tell us something, didn't say what it was, and then left for the day. Of course we freaked ou
+ Read more
Age
40 - 41
Treated
2014 - 2015
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Latino
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Lawyer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 3 Docs
Treatment
11 IUI, 1 IVF, Donor Eggs, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Unexplained
2
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Lots of knowledgeable doctors but you won;t have the benefit of being treated by just one of them who will give you personal attention. They go by the stats there, if you don't work within their standard protocols, they are slow to adjust.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Susan Willman at Reproductive Science Center?
We only saw Dr Willman occasionally to review our case (we were a "case") and a few times for baseline or sonograms. Otherwise I had an assigned case manager who couldn't answer questions (would only repeat information we already had) and had to be pressed to ask the doctors to get new information, communication was always at least one day behind, billing was a complete mess (we ended up with a refund because of over-payments?!). IUIs, egg retrieval, and fresh transfers were never with Dr Willman always someone else who was on call.
She didn't always really think through how to communicate Before our one and only IVF transfer as the embryos were developing, she left me a voicemail late on a Friday afternoon to say she wanted to tell us something, didn't say what it was, and then left for the day. Of course we freaked out and managed to get the on call doctor on the phone who gave us the bad news that the embryos weren't doing great. Finally, after all of that, Dr. Willman let me know our fresh transfer failed (second beta results) over voice mail for crying out loud.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Jennifer)
Very slow in responding to questions, at least one day and usually incomplete answers.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Provided conflicting information
- Failed to convey critical information
How was your experience with Susan Willman at Reproductive Science Center?
I felt like I was on an assembly line. I went (and stayed) because of the SART stats but ultimately decided they were way too cavalier about our ability to keep financing treatment without a major reassessment of what may have been going on.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Susan Willman at Reproductive Science Center?
Be prepared to deal with nurses, techs, and all of the other doctors there almost exclusively, Willman will be your doctor only in the sense that is the primary doctor assigned to your case; she will not be making all of the treatment decisions or handling the procedures.
Describe the protocols Susan Willman used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
IUIs with lertozole, some with bravelle, and some with follistim with menopur. All negative pregnancy tests. IVF with follistim, menopur, and ganirelix. 5 fertilized eggs, 1 day 5 embryo, 1 day 5 morula, both transferred, low chemical pregnancy resulted.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Reproductive Science Center.
It was efficient and impersonal, a different nurse or doctor each time. They were always pleasant though.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Susan Willman at Reproductive Science Center.
IUIs were about $600 plus meds, IVF retrieval and fresh transfer was about $24,000 with no PGS plus meds.
Describe Susan Willman's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
They recommended a fresh transfer of two embryos - a blast and morula.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
Age
38
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
14 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
In the clinic [Reproductive Science Center] there are several Drs. Your primary doctor may not be able to see you each time (due to timing of the transfer) but there is always a Dr. that can. Your doctor will try their best to complete the transfer on the best day, but we all know that timing is extremely important in this.... They were always friendly and compassionate. At my second visit I had to wait an extremely long time and to apologize for my wait, they gave me a Starbucks gift card. Any time I had to leave a message they returned my call within 24-248 hours.
+ Read more
Age
38
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Business Executive
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 4 Docs
Treatment
14 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
In the clinic there are several Drs. Your primary doctor may not be able to see you each time (due to timing of the transfer) but there is always a Dr. that can. Your doctor will try their best to complete the transfer on the best day, but we all know that timing is extremely important in this.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carmelo Sgarlata at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Sgarlata was very kind and considerate of my situation. He sympathized and talked through each particular outcome. Very sensitive when the first FET didn't take and understanding when we weren't ready to immediately try again. During the time between my first and second FET my first child was diagnosed with a chromosome disorder. Sgarlata reached out to his professional contacts to find out about further chromosome testing, then personally called me to walk through options.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Kathryn De Vera)
They were always friendly and compassionate. At my second visit I had to wait an extremely long time and to apologize for my wait, they gave me a Starbucks gift card. Any time I had to leave a message they returned my call within 24-248 hours.
How was your experience with Carmelo Sgarlata at Reproductive Science Center?
Even though the treatments did not result in a live birth, I felt comfortable and safe with Sgarlata, like my best interests were his best interests. He went above and beyond and had several phone appointments with me, when I was unable to make appointments in the office. (Bay Area traffic). He gave me all details I needed and answered any and all questions that I had.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carmelo Sgarlata at Reproductive Science Center?
Don't be afraid to ask questions or for phone appointments.
Describe the protocols Carmelo Sgarlata used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
From a previous Dr., we had 10 frozen embryo's and our treatment was for FET. I started on estrace, baby aspirin, vitamin D (due to being low), and then progesterone shots. After the transfer I continued with Estrace and progesterone until pregnancy test. One cycle was failed the other resulted in twins, then 2 separate miscarriages. I continued progesterone until miscarriages.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Carmelo Sgarlata at Reproductive Science Center.
This was FET and each cycle, not including medications, was about $5,000.
Describe Carmelo Sgarlata's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Science Center.
Due to my first child being a result of transferring 2 embryo's, he was comfortable with transferring 2 each time.
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10
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2014 - 2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
10 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, PCOS
10
Well run, has an off hours number you can call. Very regimented in hours for appointments, which can be tough to coordinate with work. They are tech friendly (email, etc) and are friendly. Billing can be a headache, but frankly, I cared far more about the lab and doctor quality, and was willing to handle the billing issues (which were resolved, after several phone calls back and forth).
+ Read more
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2014 - 2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
3rd of 3 Docs
Treatment
10 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, PCOS
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
Well run, has an off hours number you can call. Very regimented in hours for appointments, which can be tough to coordinate with work. They are tech friendly (email, etc) and are friendly. Billing can be a headache, but frankly, I cared far more about the lab and doctor quality, and was willing to handle the billing issues (which were resolved, after several phone calls back and forth).
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
They cared about how I was doing. When I had my third loss (first under their care) there was a plan enacted to not only find out why it happened, but how to address it in the future. They (Dr. Rosenbluth and my nurse Valeri) were available, listened to my concerns, and answered my many questions. He followed up on research I had done and listened to what I wanted to do for my treatment, and if we disagreed on something, he explained his view (and his experience/research) and we came to a decision together. This was not the experience I had elsewhere and I truly feel he listened to me and viewed me as a human being.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Valeri)
Valeri is amazing. Answered all my questions, sent me an organized calendar, got me over my fear of self-injecting PIO, and camel me down during a very scary first trimester with bleeding. She's the best.
How was your experience with Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
He is thorough. He's been involved in a lot if research and it shows. He can clearly explain things and is frustrated (in a productive way) when he doesn't know why results are a certain why he didn't expect. When my case became more complicated he asked other doctors at a major conference for insight (to clarify, this was because it was so rare, not an indication that he isn't knowledgeable. I was impressed and appreciative that he went and did this on his own, after asking my permission). I was feeling very defeated after our third loss (again, first under his care) I told him I was scared this was never going to happen for us, and he told me he didn't think we were there yet and that he would tell me if we were. He was right. He handled curveballs very well and whenever we cycle again, he will be managing my care.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center?
Tell him what you want. Explain your concerns and ask questions, because he will answer.
Describe the protocols Evan Rosenbluth used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
Antagonist protocol (downreg with birth control, follistim, menopur, ganirelex, baby aspirin, antibiotics before ER, Valium before transfer for fresh cycle. Estradiol, Endometrin/pio (added pio during bleeding episodes in first trimester). 11 retrieved, 9 mature, 1 day 5 blast transferred, 6 day 6 blasts frozen. Day 5 blast resulted in a miscarriage, transferred 2 frozen embryos several months later, resulting in a singleton live birth.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Evan Rosenbluth at Reproductive Science Center.
Meds were approximately 4 grand for the fresh cycle. IVF (including ICSI, freezing, retrieval, transfer) was about 13 grand. Frozen transfer was 3 grand, I don't remember the Meds.
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10
Age
36
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Other
10
The doctors at RSC are in different clinics on different days... the doctors meet every afternoon to discuss results for each patient as a group, so you are getting the perspective and experience of many different doctors, not just one.
+ Read more
Age
36
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
5th of 5 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Other
10
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
My care team always treated me as an individual and never confused me with someone else or as a "product". My care was always individualized and I always had calls and emails returned within a day or two. Dr. Reid was always the one to call with results of egg retrievals, fertilization reports, genetic testing results, and pregnancy test results.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Laura Appling Rueckheim)
Very organized and great and responding quickly with detailed answers to any questions. I appreciate Laura's compassionate manner and always felt treated like a human with feelings when talking about difficult results.
How was your experience with Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr. Reid has been a compassionate and trustworthy doctor. I always felt that she fully listened to me and my concerns, and took me seriously as an intelligent patient who wanted more information. She treated me as an individual and was willing to alter protocols based on my concerns if the research indicated it. She shared research with me and was willing to say that she needed time to think and research different methods to individualize my treatment and got back to me with results. She never rushed me out of my appointments (which means she often ran late with others, but I was ok with that). She was the one to call with any results and was available to answer questions and talk me through results. I appreciate her perspective as a female fertility specialist after seeing many male specialists who never quite answered my questions or wanted to explain things on a deeper level. I have not yet had a live birth but will stay with Dr. Reid until we decide to stop IVF treatments and change course.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sara Pittenger-Reid at Reproductive Science Center?
The doctors at RSC are in different clinics on different days and rotate weekends. That meant that Dr. Reid was not necessarily the one to perform a retrieval or transfer if it fell on a day where she was not in the main clinic. However, all of the other doctors I have worked with at RSC so far (Dr. Wachs, Dr. Rosenbluth, Dr.HInckley) have been wonderful. If you only want to see one person for all appointments and procedures this may not be the place for you. I really appreciated that the doctors meet every afternoon to discuss results for each patient as a group, so you are getting the perspective and experience of many different doctors, not just one.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Reproductive Science Center.
Monitoring appointments are only done in the mornings. I have to drive a ways in heavy traffic to reach the clinic, so the early morning appointments worked well for me as it helped me miss the worst traffic.
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10
Age
28 - 30
Treated
2012 - 2014
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Male Factor, Unexplained
10
The clinic [RSC] was amazing. Very convenient, friendly, easy to communicate with. The one downfall is how expensive everything is. However, it is comparable with other clinics in our area.... I did 3 cycles of iui. One without medication. One with closed and one with Femara. The unit medicated resulted in pregnancy but I miscarried at 5 weeks. The one with clomid did not result in pregnancy. The last cycle with Femara resulted in pregnancy but I miscarried at 11 weeks. I finally became pregnant naturally a few months later. I saw dr. Hinckley at least every other week from 4 weeks- 8.5 weeks. She ordered blood tests every other day during all of my pregnancies. She called within 6-8 hours with results after every blood test. Ultrasounds were preformed at least every week.
+ Read more
Age
28 - 30
Treated
2012 - 2014
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Male Factor, Unexplained
10
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
The clinic was amazing. Very convenient, friendly, easy to communicate with. The one downfall is how expensive everything is. However, it is comparable with other clinics in our area.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
Dr Hinckley was always warm and caring. She even became emotional before I did upon leaning about my third miscarriage. She made MANY personal calls and was very understanding about my anxieties.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Science Center. (Assigned nurse: Devronne)
Devronne was amazing, patient and caring.
How was your experience with Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
Mary Hinckley was the best resource and partner we could have hoped for during our infertility journey. We LOVE her! It is not a road that anyone wants to be on... but if you have to travel it anyone would be lucky to have her by their side. She called me personally and promptly with results for EVERY test. She was very easy to get in touch with and spent as much time as we wanted with us at each appointment. Her warm smile eased our fears and anxiety everytime we saw her.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center?
Don't hesitate to contact her at anytime with any little question. She is always happy to answer anything. I think I called her team at least one time a day!
Describe the protocols Mary Hinckley used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
I did 3 cycles of iui. One without medication. One with closed and one with Femara. The unit medicated resulted in pregnancy but I miscarried at 5 weeks. The one with clomid did not result in pregnancy. The last cycle with Femara resulted in pregnancy but I miscarried at 11 weeks. I finally became pregnant naturally a few months later. I saw dr. Hinckley at least every other week from 4 weeks- 8.5 weeks. She ordered blood tests every other day during all of my pregnancies. She called within 6-8 hours with results after every blood test. Ultrasounds were preformed at least every week.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Hinckley at Reproductive Science Center.
We paid about 10,000. The initial consultation was $300 and each iui round was about $1000.
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0
Age
41 - 42
Treated
2012 - 2013
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
2 IUI, IVF, Donor Eggs, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Poor Egg Quality
0
The support staff [at RSC- San Jose] made many errors and was unwilling to take into account any details that I found pertinent to my situation. At one point, the clinic gave me someone else's positive pregnancy results and refused to apologize for fear of any liability.... It's a factory.... About $300 for each surge sono --$3000 for medicated IUI $18000 for a frozen egg procedure...
+ Read more
Age
41 - 42
Treated
2012 - 2013
Success with this Doc
No
Race
—
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI, IVF, Donor Eggs, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Poor Egg Quality
0
Describe your experience with Reproductive Science Center.
It's a factory
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
The support staff made many errors and was unwilling to take into account any details that I found pertinent to my situation. At one point, the clinic gave me someone else's positive pregnancy results and refused to apologize for fear of any liability.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Science Center?
- Failed to call with results
- Lost results
- Provided conflicting information
- Failed to convey critical information
- Canceled a cycle due to clinic error
How was your experience with Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
She was ok at explaining the medical stuff and answering my questions but I still felt like a number. She failed to ask certain questions or pay attention to details I mentioned that may have suggested a different course of action.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center?
Don't use her.
Describe the protocols Deborah Wachs used in your cycles at Reproductive Science Center and their degree of success.
At my first appointment, Dr Wachs performed a resting follicle test and reviewed my blood work and told me I needed to use donor eggs. She was compassionate about the fact that I would need to get closure on using my own eggs and said she supported me to do whatever I needed to get that closure--however she would not do an IVF cycle even if I had wanted to. At my request we tried a clomid and letrazole cycle. She failed to mention that Clomid was notorious for thinning one's lining and did not pay attention to notes in my file about having a thin lining, light periods etc. Next we moved to Letrazole and the techs mistakenly said I had a follicle maturing in two different ultrasounds that turned out to be a cyst. Finally, they gave me incorrect pregnancy results of another person, telling me I was pregnant even though many of the numbers in the labs would have been inconsistent with pregnancy.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Deborah Wachs at Reproductive Science Center.
About $300 for each surge sono --$3000 for medicated IUI
$18000 for a frozen egg procedure