Dr. Akopians was everything I needed in a doctor. Ever since my initial consult with her, she was direct and straightforward but compassionate and kind. I wanted someone to give it to me straight since so much of infertility is up in the air. It was important to me that she be the one doing my procedures and she was. Every egg retrieval and then every prenatal ultrasound was done with her as well as her nurse present.
I knew going into SCRC that this was a busy clinic and that I wasn’t going to have one on one hour long meetings every time I went in. This worked out really well for me as I was able to get in and get out but still talk to my nurse as long as I need to every day. I never felt like a number at all. Even the front desk staff and phlebotomist knew me by name as you become a “regular” during IvF treatments.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians was everything I needed in a doctor. Ever since my initial consult with her, she was direct and straightforward but compassionate and kind. I wanted someone to give it to me straight since so much of infertility is up in the air.
It was important to me that she be the one doing my procedures and she was. Every egg retrieval and then every prenatal ultrasound was done with her as well as her nurse present.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
I had done so much research on everything there is to know about IVF and like most people, had tried to micromanage every last detail of my infertility experience. With Dr. Akopians I immediately knew that I could pass the torch because I was in good hands. Trust her because she knows what she’s doing, however she was also open to debating studies and cases I had read about. It was the perfect mix.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
I knew going into SCRC that this was a busy clinic and that I wasn’t going to have one on one hour long meetings every time I went in. This worked out really well for me as I was able to get in and get out but still talk to my nurse as long as I need to every day. I never felt like a number at all. Even the front desk staff and phlebotomist knew me by name as you become a “regular” during IvF treatments.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
The first cycle I had a slightly elevated FSH so we waiting a cycle till it dropped down. Then we primed for 4 days with bcp before stimming for 14 days (slow responder) before the egg retrieval. Dr. Akopians saw my low AFC and lower AMH and did not was to over suppress.
The second cycle my FSH was too high so we did estrogen priming for a month or so prior to the stims. This was my best cycle with the most PGS normal embryos.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Julia Fletcher)
Julia Fletcher has to be one of the most wonderful people I have ever worked with both medically and personally. She is so compassionate and so organized during a process that so desperately needs both. She was always on top of my schedules and made sure I was 100% clear on everything I was supposed to be doing. I was nervous about doing the injections myself and so she had me come in to demonstrate it for me in person to ease my nerves.
During my treatment cycle I was going through some pretty tough things personally unrelated to IVF, and Julia was even supportive during all that. She would message and call to check in on me and always asked how I was doing. I cannot say enough positive things about Julia. I wish I could take her with me to by obgyn!
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
SCRC is a busy, cutting-edge fertility clinic with a great lab and great staff. If you are looking for one on one appointments with your doctor for every session, this is probably not the place for you. If you are also a busy working person, this place is perfect. I was able to get my multiple times a week labs/ultrasound done before work at 6:30am. Every afternoon post labs I would get a long call with my nurse to go over all the numbers as well as next steps. This process worked perfectly for me as I also don’t have time to do hour long appointments multiple times a week.
During the actual procedures, the saline ultrasound, the transfer, all my ultrasound since my transfer, Dr. Akopians was always there to do the procedure and answer any questions or concerns I had.
Long story short, SCRC was a great fit for me. They are a well oiled machine with an easy to access app that has a messaging service, a calendar for appoints, a place for medication instructions, as well as requested labs and results. This made navigating the egg retrieval/transfer process a breeze.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
My package was $28k for monitoring, retrieval, genetic testing of 8 embryos, transfer, and after transfer monitoring. I banked embryos in two cycles. Second cycle was a la carte without a package for $14k including genetic testing. Meds were not included for any of this.
Describe Alin Lina Akopians's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Southern California Reproductive Center.
Dr. Akopians does not believe, or at least in my case did not believe in the need to transfer multiple normal tested PGS embryos as science has shown better outcomes for mother and child when only one is transferred. This was in line with what all I had read.
Dr. Akopians is always there personally for the important stuff, such as pregnancy ultrasounds and delivering important results. She takes her time explaining things and answering any questions you may have. If it's something less important, she'll have her nurse communicate with you, but you still feel very taken care of...she prefers single embryo transfer
[SCRC] are open 7 days a week, and someone can always be reached at all hours, which I thought was an important feature when searching for a fertility clinic. They're even open on major holidays...I ultimately still went with SCRC because I believe they are worth what they charge. Another thing to consider is also that they almost never do fresh transfers, so if you are looking to do one, this may not be the clinic for you. They also require anyone older than 35 to undergo PGT-A testing.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians is a very smart and compassionate doctor. I trust her completely with my treatment. Even though I'm older and have an egg quality issue, she never once suggested that I shouldn't proceed with my own eggs, which I appreciate. I trust that she's up to date on recent fertility treatment advancements.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians is on your side and always rooting for you to succeed. Do not hesitate to ask her any questions, as she always takes the time to explain everything thoroughly.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians is always there personally for the important stuff, such as pregnancy ultrasounds and delivering important results. She takes her time explaining things and answering any questions you may have. If it's something less important, she'll have her nurse communicate with you, but you still feel very taken care of.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
My first cycle was an antagonist protocol, without any priming (300 Gonal-F, 150 Menopur, 25iu Omnitrope, 10k Pregnyl trigger). We retrieved 6 eggs, 3 fertilized, 2 made it to blastocyst, but both tested genetically abnormal. The next cycle we tried a Lupron Flare protocol, but I developed a lead follicle at my baseline scan, so the cycle was converted to an IUI which was unsuccessful. For my third cycle we went back to an antagonist protocol, but with estrogen priming this time (same dosages of medications as the first cycle, except we used a dual trigger Lupron/Novorel). I retrieved 8-9 eggs (can't remember exactly), but only 1 made it to blastocyst and subsequently also tested genetically abnormal. I have an egg quality issue, as I was 39 at the time of those retrievals. We are planning to do more retrievals, and Dr. Akopians will adjust the protocol to try to get better quality embryos.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Mariam)
My primary nurse was Mariam, and I always felt well taken care of by her. She always responded to my messages in a timely manner, and she was very organized with my treatment (ordering medications, setting appointments, etc). She was also a great communicator, and I had no trouble understanding her instructions. She would always follow up with a conversation with an email, in case I forgot anything. She's also a very caring and compassionate nurse. A second nurse I saw at the clinic was Sophia who would sometimes do my blood draws, and she was also very encouraging and sympathetic.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
This clinic is a top notch fertility clinic, with what I understand to be one of the best embryology labs in the nation. They are open 7 days a week, and someone can always be reached at all hours, which I thought was an important feature when searching for a fertility clinic. They're even open on major holidays. They do not delay your egg retrieval just because it's a holiday. However, the Pasadena office is not open on weekends, and you would have to go to their Beverly Hills office for any weekend appointments. I believe that they have excellent doctors and staff, and employ the latest technology. Their lab even has an Embryoscope. However, they are pretty pricey. Their prices for everything ranging from procedures to tests are on the higher side, which I found out from consulting different clinics and comparing prices with friends. I ultimately still went with SCRC because I believe they are worth what they charge. Another thing to consider is also that they almost never do fresh transfers, so if you are looking to do one, this may not be the clinic for you. They also require anyone older than 35 to undergo PGT-A testing.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
Cycle fee - $14,750 (includes monitoring and egg retrieval), PGT-A testing - $3,800 for up to 8 embryos, Sperm DNA fragmentation test - $500, Genetic testing - $600 per person, Karyotype test - $500 per person, Embryo storage - $750 for 1 year, Embryoscope - $2500, Zymot - $500, medications paid directly to pharmacy.
Describe Alin Lina Akopians's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Southern California Reproductive Center.
Dr. Akopians has said that she prefers single embryo transfer, however, we have not yet gotten any viable embryos to transfer, so we have not discussed this issue any further.
[Dr. Alin Lina Akopians] was also very nimble, redirecting as needed as we received new information and results to ultimately get us the best outcome. You never feel rushed or treated like a number with her...Patients are able to easily access their results and she goes over the results each time, himself. She's extremely cautious and will communicate the potential outcomes, considerations and risks of what she's recommending. I always felt like I was in great care and have since recommended Dr. Akopians to everyone in need to fertility care. She's one in a million and I wouldn't look to anyone else if you're in the LA area and considering fertility treatment.
The [Southern California Reproductive Center] clinic is strong with one of the best labs in the region which is very important. That, coupled with the terrific team that Dr. Akopians has makes it unbeatable. The clinic has many doctors, I don't consider that a weakness. Patients are seen in a very timely manner and the entire operation is very organized...monitoring appointment were smooth and seamless, I always saw Dr. Akopians and that was incredibly important to me to be monitored by the doctor.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
After 7 years, multiple failed IUI's and 7 failed cycles of IVF, with 3 doctors prior to Dr. Akopians, we were blessed to finally become patients of Dr. Akopians and to have our miracle baby. Dr. Akopians and her entire team were incredibly thorough, explaining everything we needed to know along the way. She was also very nimble, redirecting as needed as we received new information and results to ultimately get us the best outcome. You never feel rushed or treated like a number with her or her team. Patients are able to easily access their results and she goes over the results each time, himself. She's extremely cautious and will communicate the potential outcomes, considerations and risks of what she's recommending. I always felt like I was in great care and have since recommended Dr. Akopians to everyone in need to fertility care. She's one in a million and I wouldn't look to anyone else if you're in the LA area and considering fertility treatment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
You're in good hands.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians is empathetic, kind, clear and her medical brilliance is met with her humanity which was very important for us after working with doctors prior to her with poor EQ.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
we pivoted from a frozen to fresh transfer considering how our embryos were performing. It was a successful outcome and strategy and Dr. Akopians was the only doctor who was nimble and pivoted to that strategy which ultimately led to our baby.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Julia )
Julia is the BEST nurse I have ever worked with. To say I adore her is an understatement. She was so invested in our outcome, held me in so much love and compassion along the way, was always available to answer any questions and communicated consistently. She was a blessing in every way and I adore her!!
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
The clinic is strong with one of the best labs in the region which is very important. That, coupled with the terrific team that Dr. Akopians has makes it unbeatable. The clinic has many doctors, I don't consider that a weakness. Patients are seen in a very timely manner and the entire operation is very organized.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Southern California Reproductive Center.
monitoring appointment were smooth and seamless, I always saw Dr. Akopians and that was incredibly important to me to be monitored by the doctor.
My experience with Dr. Akopians is incomparable to any other doctor. I have never met a doctor with so much knowledge and compassion. As a patient with a professional medical background, she never made me feel like I was expected to know all of the medical terminology or how this process worked. She was thorough and thoughtful with her delivery of information. Her bedside manner made it so comfortable to discuss even the most intimate of issues. I was always informed of every step of the IVF process and never felt that my needs were overlooked. I can't thank her enough for the kindness and care that she has provided for me.
Dr. Akopians and the clinical staff [at SCRC] were so attentive. They were very thorough with instructions. When I had questions about anything, they answered with so much compassion and care. I never felt uncomfortable or afraid to ask questions...This clinic is very modern and welcoming. Their staff are well trained and very profession. I really love that they are accommodating with the schedule and can get me in early for blood and ultrasound appointments. The ultrasound technologists at this clinic were the absolute best. They always made me feel welcomed and made the dreadful early morning ultrasounds quick and easy. They even remember conversations from the last appointment, which made me feel like I was more than just a number.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
My experience with Dr. Akopians is incomparable to any other doctor. I have never met a doctor with so much knowledge and compassion. As a patient with a professional medical background, she never made me feel like I was expected to know all of the medical terminology or how this process worked. She was thorough and thoughtful with her delivery of information. Her bedside manner made it so comfortable to discuss even the most intimate of issues. I was always informed of every step of the IVF process and never felt that my needs were overlooked. I can't thank her enough for the kindness and care that she has provided for me.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians and the clinical staff were so attentive. They were very thorough with instructions. When I had questions about anything, they answered with so much compassion and care. I never felt uncomfortable or afraid to ask questions.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Julia)
Julia is a great communicator. She was meticulous with making my calendar, scheduling appointments and answering questions about medications. I felt like I was being cared for by a family member and she went above and beyond to make sure I did not feel alone in this journey. So thankful for her positive energy!
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
This clinic is very modern and welcoming. Their staff are well trained and very profession. I really love that they are accommodating with the schedule and can get me in early for blood and ultrasound appointments. The ultrasound technologists at this clinic were the absolute best. They always made me feel welcomed and made the dreadful early morning ultrasounds quick and easy. They even remember conversations from the last appointment, which made me feel like I was more than just a number.
Dr. Akopians is a machine! She studies your outcomes and makes appropriate plans and changes. I always felt she gave 100 percent to my care and family planning goals. My personal preference for doctors is that they are compassionate, direct, and well- researched in the latest research and practices. With Dr. Akopians, I found that perfect match.
SCRC has great SART results. I think at the end of the day, you want a clinic that has a great Live Birth Rate. I prefer results over the "feeling" of a clinic. You will get to know your phlebotomist and ultrasound techs really well, and I loved how they get to know you and make you feel at ease during your time there. This is a really emotional experience for women, and I think having a laugh with the team is what made my time at SCRC special.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
I loved my IVF experience with Dr. Akopians. I had two rounds of ivf and one frozen embryo transfer from Feb 2022 until November 2022. Dr. Akopians is a machine! She studies your outcomes and makes appropriate plans and changes. I always felt she gave 100 percent to my care and family planning goals. My personal preference for doctors is that they are compassionate, direct, and well- researched in the latest research and practices. With Dr. Akopians, I found that perfect match.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
A piece of advice I would give patients for Dr. Akopians is that she is really focused on your labs and ultrasounds, so she is not prescribing a one size fits all approach. She is incredible with the amount of time she spends studying your case. When I first met her, I knew this woman meant business! And I loved that about her. As I got to know her throughout the IVF cycles, I felt that we developed a relationship that was honest yet compassionate. It is pretty impressive the amount of families they are trying to get pregnant and I know that a busy clinic may be off putting, but you want a well oiled machine! Finally, I felt with Dr. Akopians that her medication doses and appointments reflected my age and medical history that was necessary. Of course, you want to compare your treatments and medications with friends going through IVF- DON'T DO THAT haha. I felt Akopians was right there with me in our goal to get me pregnant. And she was right there celebrating with me when we got there.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Julia Fletcher)
I am OBSESSED with Julia, my nurse coordinator. She is the most dedicated and caring nurse I have had the pleasure of going through IVF with. Every time she called to discuss results and directions, she was detailed and asked me how I was feeling to check in. Anything I needed, she responded with a detailed message with lightning speed. I don't know how she does it. She never rushed me or felt stressed even though she had other patients to give the same lovely treatment. I am in awe of Julia! You really feel like you are getting VIP treatment. Now I wish every clinic had a Julia on hand.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
SCRC has great SART results. I think at the end of the day, you want a clinic that has a great Live Birth Rate. I prefer results over the "feeling" of a clinic. You will get to know your phlebotomist and ultrasound techs really well, and I loved how they get to know you and make you feel at ease during your time there. This is a really emotional experience for women, and I think having a laugh with the team is what made my time at SCRC special.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
46K total cost: 2 rounds of IVF medications, 2 rounds of IVF, 1 frozen embryo transfer, tons of labs for bloodwork, and visits for ultrasounds.
Describe Alin Lina Akopians's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Southern California Reproductive Center.
We selected a frozen embryo transfer with ONE embryo since the embryo was PGT tested and graded good.
It is clear they are a very busy clinic and I felt I needed more direct communication and involvement from the doctor than I was getting with Dr. Akopians at SCRC. I also felt that she didn't put a whole lot of thought into the protocol she was suggesting for me, it seemed very cookie-cutter rather than being individualized for our specific situation...she seemed very inaccessible...
Julia [nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center] was the best part of my experience at SCRC. She is incredibly kind, compassionate, and informed...When we tried to get the prior authorization to move forward with IVF, I tried multiple times to reach out to different people in their billing department, and it was very difficult to get responses back...seems everyone there is overworked and overloaded and things kept falling through the cracks...
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians is clearly intelligent and I felt a compassionate doctor. However she seemed too overworked to pay specific and individualized attention to each patient. If you don't mind that and are just looking for a straight shooter who will assign the protocol and oversee your treatment, she may work for you. If you are seeking more hand holding and attentiveness, this might not be the right doctor for you. I chalk this up to being more an overall issue with the clinic itself than the doctor. I didn't receive any treatment from her, I only had a consult and the initial diagnostic workup with her.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Consider your individual needs when choosing a doctor. I recommend having multiple consults with other doctors/clinics before making a decision, if feasible. Advocate for yourself, do your own research, and ask lots of questions. If she suggests a certain protocol ask her why she would recommend that for you specifically.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
During my consult with Dr. Akopians, she gave us a ton of detailed information about fertility and IVF but it was essentially a script that seemed memorized, rather than really tailoring it for us specifically. She did take her time with us which we appreciated, but we never saw her again after our consult. The only other time I got to speak with her was when she went over the results of my ultrasound that was done by a technician, not herself. Anytime I called the office or wrote a message in the portal, I always got a response from the nurse Julia, rather than the doctor herself. It is clear they are a very busy clinic and I felt I needed more direct communication and involvement from the doctor than I was getting with Dr. Akopians at SCRC. I also felt that she didn't put a whole lot of thought into the protocol she was suggesting for me, it seemed very cookie-cutter rather than being individualized for our specific situation.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
I have diminished ovarian reserve and Dr. Akopians initially recommended we do the birth control start. I have come to learn by consulting with multiple doctors that the birth control can actually suppress the ovaries too much which would result a lower egg number at the retrieval. The doctor I am with now has put me on an estrogen priming protocol which apparently may be more beneficial if you have DOR. I reached out to the Akopians team and asked them about the estrogen protocol and all I got was a response saying that Dr. Akopians won't order the meds or assign the official protocol until I come in for day 1 or 2 testing and ultrasound. The issue with that is that the estrogen priming protocol is supposed to start in the previous month's luteal phase in order to prevent one egg from maturing too quickly before the others. This was one of the main reasons why we chose to go with another doctor over Dr. Akopians in the end. We didn't love the protocol she suggested and didn't feel like we could get in contact with Dr. Akopians to really talk this through - she seemed very inaccessible.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Julia)
Julia was the best part of my experience at SCRC. She is incredibly kind, compassionate, and informed. Every time I called to speak with her, she took a lot of time to answer my questions and explain things to me. She was also very communicative with me via the online portal. Additionally, the staff at the clinic I met with for my diagnostic workup (phlebotomists and ultrasound technician) were all amazing. You can really feel their empathy and compassion.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
The clinic itself is beautiful and in a nice location. They have been around for a very long time and are well known and established as having a very good lab. I appreciated that they have a policy to not allow children in their clinic due to the sensitive nature of the practice.
Some cons - when we initially called months ago for a semen analysis, nobody called us back multiple times. I initially had a virtual consult scheduled with another doctor, but she cancelled on me the morning of my appointment. I then scheduled another virtual consult with Dr. Akopians, and then she cancelled on me an hour before the appointment. Finally the third consult I scheduled, she ended up showing up. This points to the business of the clinic, which some people might not mind but it again made me feel like a number.
Regarding the insurance/billing department: First, they checked my insurance coverage and told us we had no fertility coverage. So we went a few months thinking this and that we'd have to pay out of pocket for everything. We then found out from another clinic that we did in fact have fertility coverage, with a company that SCRC happens to be in-network with anyway. When we tried to get the prior authorization to move forward with IVF, I tried multiple times to reach out to different people in their billing department, and it was very difficult to get responses back. Meanwhile the other clinic I was meeting with was on top of it and had everything sorted out while I was still trying to get in contact with them. Another reason why we chose the other clinic. Again, I don't think it's about anyone's individual incompetence or forgetfulness, it just seems everyone there is overworked and overloaded and things kept falling through the cracks. I want to feel I am being taken care of and in good hands, and I did not feel that way there.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
My consultation was free because I had a coupon from my OB/GYN. The bloodwork and ultrasound was run through my insurance.
What specific things went wrong at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Lost appointments
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Southern California Reproductive Center.
The ultrasound technician told me I had 15-16 follicles. The next day I got an email from the nursing staff saying I had 13-14 follicles. The day after that Dr. Akopians called me and said I had 10-11 follicles. This is all for the same ultrasound.
Multiple late-cancelled consultation appointments as noted above.
Difficulties getting calls back from anyone besides Julia the nurse.
Insurance department telling us we have zero fertility coverage to later find out we have a full IVF cycle covered and 15k in medication costs.
Initial consult was amazing. She [Dr. Akopians] explained everything in a away that was easy to understand and gave a lot of insight as to what to expect. Once the ball started rolling; almost two weeks in, several scans completed and medications ordered; no one provided a specific treatment plan or reviewed the treatment cycle with us. After requesting this meeting...Her tone changed and we moved forward. Her bedside manner at time of retrieval was very gentle and warm. And her communication with updates was great...
I cant say that I am impressed overall with my total experience [at Southern California Reproductive Center]. Their website mentions taking a whole person approach but it is very much a clinical experience...Nurse didn't know my name even though she had already called me three times in a row. Didn't hear from my doctor until 2 weeks after initial scan. Communication through the portal overall is very cold and impersonal. Some communication through portal is ok but any education/ next steps would be better in a phone call...
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Initial consult was amazing. She explained everything in a away that was easy to understand and gave a lot of insight as to what to expect. Once the ball started rolling; almost two weeks in, several scans completed and medications ordered; no one provided a specific treatment plan or reviewed the treatment cycle with us. After requesting this meeting, the doctor called and had a tone in her voice and stated that "this was already explained in the first meeting" We were able to point out that the "consultation" was great but that conversation involved many what if's and nothing specific was reviewed with us directly. Not even the medication calendar was reviewed. Her tone changed and we moved forward. Her bedside manner at time of retrieval was very gentle and warm. And her communication with updates was great.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
I would say this any patient to any doctor: Speak up and ask the questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Nurse didn't know my name even though she had already called me three times in a row. Didn't hear from my doctor until 2 weeks after initial scan. Communication through the portal overall is very cold and impersonal. Some communication through portal is ok but any education/ next steps would be better in a phone call. At the BH office, the staff seemed very unpassionate about their role.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
I wasn't given specific reasons as to why she used the specific protocol but I remember being told that "these medications I feel would be best" I wasn't very satisfied with the answer but at that point we just have to trust the doctor. Post retrieval Dr.Akopians did discuss a different treatment plan that could possible have better results.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Miriam)
Heavy handed with the needles for blood draw. Didn't order me enough medications to get through the 1st week. Didn't explain much in regards to the protocol being used and why. I was told to look at the calendar for details and changes. I wasn't provided updated calendars. Just confusing instructions in an email if there were any changes.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
I cant say that I am impressed overall with my total experience. Their website mentions taking a whole person approach but it is very much a clinical experience. When I requested the mental health support, they didn't have a singe referral source. When asked for acupuncturist, they only had one, maybe near their Beverly Hills office. No nutritional support was provided or encouraged either.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
scans, genetic testing,
What specific things went wrong at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians did not provide personalized care or advice based on my individual situation and only recited standard textbook approaches for women of advanced maternal age. She suggested using donor eggs (the only doctor among 5 others) when I still have regular menses and have prior cycles where I was able to retrieve MII eggs that all fertilized. She didn't really clarify why I should use donor eggs other than mentioning how I was only able to retrieve a small amount of eggs and many were unable to make it to Day 5 blastocyst stage. However, there is research on IVF for older women which suggests Day 5 blastocyst cultures may not be the best approach especially for older women with low amount of eggs. Many viable embryos do not necessarily make it to blastocyst stage In vitro (but can still result in healthy babie
I only completed a consultation with Dr. Akopians and can't really say too much about the overall clinic [SCRC]. Front desk staff and phone calls with people were fine, but I can't say they came off particularly cheery, warm etc. like other clinics...Dr. Akopians did not provide personalized care or advice based on my individual situation and only recited standard textbook approaches for women of advanced maternal age. She suggested using donor eggs (the only doctor among 5 others) when I still have regular menses and have prior cycles where I was able to retrieve MII eggs that all fertilized. She didn't really clarify why I should use donor
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Honestly, out of all the doctors I've seen this year, she was the worst. Came off a bit arrogant, lectures on the basic of fertility 101 which most women going through IVF already know, and does not seem able to think outside the box. She was the only one to suggest donor eggs and does not seem confident or knowledgeable in working with older women 40+. She agreed to do my cycles but who wants a doctor that doesn't believe in their journey and wants to try innovative ways so they can maximize their potential?
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Don't see Dr. Akopians if you have a complex fertility issue because she can't think outside the box and won't try different protocols that aren't standard textbook approaches. I can't really recommend her for older women because she'll probably try to sell you donor eggs when you still have a couple years to try.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians did not provide personalized care or advice based on my individual situation and only recited standard textbook approaches for women of advanced maternal age. She suggested using donor eggs (the only doctor among 5 others) when I still have regular menses and have prior cycles where I was able to retrieve MII eggs that all fertilized. She didn't really clarify why I should use donor eggs other than mentioning how I was only able to retrieve a small amount of eggs and many were unable to make it to Day 5 blastocyst stage. However, there is research on IVF for older women which suggests Day 5 blastocyst cultures may not be the best approach especially for older women with low amount of eggs. Many viable embryos do not necessarily make it to blastocyst stage In vitro (but can still result in healthy babies if frozen early and implanted). She also gave a long intro on the basics of fertility (how women are born with all the eggs they have and how much they lose etc etc.), really basic information most women know especially if they are planning on IVF treatments. Most other doctors skip all that unless you ask, especially if you've already completed cycles prior. They should know that's all old news.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
She recommended donor eggs when I still have regular periods and mature MII oocytes/eggs that all fertilized. I was able to find another doctor (Dr. Amin at Reproductive Partners in Beverly Hills/Redondo/Westminster) who put me on estrogen/estradiol for 5 days before my cycle start, and I was able to grow 9 eggs instead of 3!
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
I only completed a consultation with Dr. Akopians and can't really say too much about the overall clinic. Front desk staff and phone calls with people were fine, but I can't say they came off particularly cheery, warm etc. like other clinics.
Describe Alin Lina Akopians's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Southern California Reproductive Center.
She is pessimistic regarding older women trying IVF and suggests donor eggs too early. Does not seem to have alternative approaches to try and does not think outside the box.
Dr Akopians suggested only transferring one to be conservative and see how my body responded to a transfer) She honored our request and transferred two...She decided to lower my dosage and it ended up helping the polyps not return as quickly after we had just done a surgery to remove them. She really looks at your specifics and she will alter her strategies to get you the best results.
The [SCRC] clinic is super clean, appointments were very fast, ,I was never left waiting long for my scheduled appointment like some doctor's offices. Everyone was professional, from the nurses at the front desk, to the lab, to your clincial team. I had excellent interactions with everyone I encountered every time...
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr Akopians is intelligent, thorough and above all kind. She truly cares about her patients and their success. After two unsuccessful egg retrievals with a previous doctor I had a successful egg retrieval with Dr Akopians that resulted in 6 genetically normal embryos. During our next steps we found that I had polyps and needed surgery, which she preformed. We started again and then found the polyps returned. Although I was skeptical to do the surgery again and anxious to just go ahead with the transfer we did the surgery again as she suggested. After that we transferred two embryos (though Dr Akopians suggested only transferring one to be conservative and see how my body responded to a transfer) She honored our request and transferred two. After a positive pregnancy test, I miscarried at 6 weeks. Devastated, Dr Akopians walked me through our next steps which included a D&C. I remember being so emotional and as the anesthesia kicked in as I laid on the operating table I remember her holding my hand and tears welling in her eyes right along mine... She is a one of a kind doctor, who truly cares!
After healing we discussed our next steps which this time we took her advice and transferred one embryo. At our first ultrasound after a positive pregnancy test we found there were two yolk sacs....twins! Although we were all excited she was quick to let us know the risks, including "vanishing twin syndrome". We left the appointment hopeful. Fast forward, we graduated our 12 weeks of care with Dr Akopians and now have healthy identical twin girls. Miracles!
Let me conclude by just saying that I drove 4 hours one way to see Dr Akopians in Beverly Hills for every appointment (8 hours total for each appointment) and I did it a second time when we looked to expand our family. We now have a healthy 3 week old baby boy, again because of Dr Akopians. We have since moved out of state, but if we were still in CA I would continue to drive that 8 hours for every appointment for Dr Akopians; that is how phenomenal she is and how much she is worth the investment (time, money, emotion, etc) if you are looking to grow your family, and get the best out of an already stressful experience. I cannot recommend or complement Dr Akopians enough. We are truly grateful to her for making our dreams come true.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
When she recommends something, she has a reason. Although time and money may lead you to disagree with her, listen, there is a reason she is recommending it and it is not to make things take longer or cost more. She truly cares and wants to get you the best results as quickly as possible with the least amount of heart-ache.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
I CAME TO DR AKOPIANS AFTER WORKING WITH A LOCAL DOCTOR WHO CONTRACTED WITH SCRC'S LAB. MY PREVIOUS DOCTOR HAD ATROCIOUS BED SIDE MANNER AND AFTER GOING THROUGH AN UNEXPECTED ERROR DR AKOPIANS WAS THERE TO 'PICK UP THE BALL AND CARRY IT DOWN FIELD', SO TO SPEAK. SHE WAS SO REASSURING, SO KIND AND SO REAL DURING A VERY DIFFICULT TIME. SHE DID NOT EVER GIVE FALSE HOPE BUT I TRULY FELT SHE CARED.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
I cant remember the specific medication, but we started with some of the standard dosages, and found that polyps kept returning. She decided to lower my dosage and it ended up helping the polyps not return as quickly after we had just done a surgery to remove them. She really looks at your specifics and she will alter her strategies to get you the best results.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Julia then Sophia)
Julia and Sophia were both amazing! Prompt, thorough, professional, caring.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
The clinic is super clean, appointments were very fast, ,I was never left waiting long for my scheduled appointment like some doctor's offices. Everyone was professional, from the nurses at the front desk, to the lab, to your clincial team. I had excellent interactions with everyone I encountered every time.
Describe Alin Lina Akopians's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Southern California Reproductive Center.
She preferred to transfer one, but she did transfer two for us as we requested. however it resulted in a miscarriage. For our next transfer we listened to her and only transferred one. God still has a hand in all of this and we ended up with identical twin girls after transferring just one.
I originally came in wanting multiple embryos transferred. I was convinced I wanted twins! But Dr Akopians patiently explained the benefits and drawbacks of single vs multiple, especially with PGS testing. In the end we went with a single embryo and it was absolutely the right decision for us...always took the time with me to explain everything in detail, and made sure to communicate regularly. She treated this as a priority and made us feel like she personally cared about our outcome.
The clinic [SCRC] was very accommodating in terms of scheduling appointments with doctors, in addition to all the monitoring required. They opened very early which was great for pre-work appointments. And they also had flexibility and almost always accommodated my schedule requests. I hardly waited to be seen at any appointment. They also have a lab in house which makes things so much more seamless...All four of our retrievals were antagonist treatment. We had success in retrieving exactly the amount of eggs forecasted in ultrasounds and almost all fertilized. We did 2 cycles with HGH and 2 without, to see how it impacted results. We did PGS/PGD testing due to a genetic condition we are both carriers for. In the end we wound up with 41 eggs retrieved, 17 embryos, 7 of which tested normal. We were thrilled with the outcome.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr Akopians was everything I could ask for as a patient. She was straightforward about the process, risks, and recommendations. She was very confident and intelligent and immediately upon meeting her, I had faith in her ability to help us to our dream baby. The road was longer than we expected but she was always available to talk and plan our best course of action. She really wanted us to be successful — you could feel that from the care she took with our case. Whenever we needed her, she was fully present. For example, we met to discuss the Frozen Embryo Transfer process and she didn’t rush us, didn’t look at her watch, made us feel like her top priority. I loved that she was so vested in our success, and she led us down the right path.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
She’s wonderful, warm and considerate. She is also very straightforward. She will explain all of your treatment options and recommendations. Trust in her because she wants your success as much as you do.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr Akopians always took the time with me to explain everything in detail, and made sure to communicate regularly. She treated this as a priority and made us feel like she personally cared about our outcome.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
All four of our retrievals were antagonist treatment. We had success in retrieving exactly the amount of eggs forecasted in ultrasounds and almost all fertilized. We did 2 cycles with HGH and 2 without, to see how it impacted results. We did PGS/PGD testing due to a genetic condition we are both carriers for. In the end we wound up with 41 eggs retrieved, 17 embryos, 7 of which tested normal. We were thrilled with the outcome.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Julia // Sophia)
Julia was a huge part of our experience and a big reason why we were so happy during treatment. She was an excellent communicator and was on top of our schedule, medications, and recommendations. Her compassion and care made her my favorite person, both in and out of treatment. When Julia wasn’t available the rest of the care team was very kind and efficient and made sure we were responded to promptly.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
The clinic was very accommodating in terms of scheduling appointments with doctors, in addition to all the monitoring required. They opened very early which was great for pre-work appointments. And they also had flexibility and almost always accommodated my schedule requests. I hardly waited to be seen at any appointment. They also have a lab in house which makes things so much more seamless.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
I was lucky enough to have insurance cover a large portion of my IVF costs. She made sure to discuss overall costs of each treatment plan. She managed them as well as possible so we never felt like we were overpaying.
Describe Alin Lina Akopians's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Southern California Reproductive Center.
I originally came in wanting multiple embryos transferred. I was convinced I wanted twins! But Dr Akopians patiently explained the benefits and drawbacks of single vs multiple, especially with PGS testing. In the end we went with a single embryo and it was absolutely the right decision for us.
she [Dr. Akopians] is doing luteal phase estrogen priming for us in order to optimize our changes of quality eggs due to diminished ovarian reserve...advised me on supplements and diet...is warm and understanding. We never feel rushed when speaking with her. We were able to ask all of our questions and she took the time to explain everything thoroughly and in layman's terms...calls me and responds to my emails herself when she feels necessary. She also understands our emotional and financial concerns and came up with a game plan specific to our diagnosis.
Both of the nurses I worked with [at Southern California Reproductive Center] were thorough, kind, compassionate, prompt, organized and knew my case well. When my first cycle had to be postponed due to the pandemic, Julia called me instead of e-mailing. She talked to me for a while and I could tell she was so sad for me. When I restarted, Sophie called me and was so excited to get going and optimistic for me. The compassion is real...we were given a cost/fee sheet with breakdowns of SCRC's fees, the lab's fees, the anesthesiologist fees, testing fees and an estimate of prescription costs.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
We love that Dr. Akopians did not try to put us through a "general IVF" plan like prior doctors wanted to do. She was thorough and came up with a plan for our diagnosis. When I looked up the specific course of action, a lot of women only find out about this on their second or third try after failed attempts. So I feel like she is doing everything she can for this to work on the first try.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Since we don't know our final results yet, all I can say is trust her and know that she isn't a "one size fits all" RE.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians is warm and understanding. We never feel rushed when speaking with her. We were able to ask all of our questions and she took the time to explain everything thoroughly and in layman's terms. Also, since she is with SCRC, we had the opportunity to hear from the lead embryologist as well at one of their free seminars. Dr. Akopians calls me and responds to my emails herself when she feels necessary. She also understands our emotional and financial concerns and came up with a game plan specific to our diagnosis.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
We are in cycle now so I have no results to provide at this time. But she is doing luteal phase estrogen priming for us in order to optimize our changes of quality eggs due to diminished ovarian reserve. I have not started stims.
I will say, my first start up was cancelled due to Covid-19. However, the doctors office stayed in contact with us about next steps, restarting and completing any necessary tests and other issues in the interim in order to "hit the ground running" once the restrictions were lifted. I didn't feel like I really even missed a beat.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Sophie and Julia)
Both of the nurses I worked with were thorough, kind, compassionate, prompt, organized and knew my case well. When my first cycle had to be postponed due to the pandemic, Julia called me instead of e-mailing. She talked to me for a while and I could tell she was so sad for me. When I restarted, Sophie called me and was so excited to get going and optimistic for me. The compassion is real.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
First of all, I think SCRC has an excellent working model. We started with a free seminar which covered all the basics. We got to ask questions and hear from Dr. Akopians, Dr. Barritt (the head embryologist) and the CEO of the company in person. After the seminar, Dr. Akopians advised me on supplements and diet. Once I had my one on one with Dr. Akopians, I felt comfortable right away.
Their embryology lab is used by UCLA for research as well. They went over all the ways their lab is one of the best and the care they take at each step with the embryos.
The Covid-19 pandemic has forced cancellation of so many cycles. I commiserated with several other women at other clinics. But was surprised to learn quickly that SCRC was communicating with me and continuing to prep me to restart in ways that my friends at other clinics were not experiencing. They were left in the dark with no idea what was happening, but SCRC kept in close contact with me and was honest about what they thought was going to happen. I am so thankful that they did this for me when clearly that wasn't the case elsewhere.
I also like that there is an on call nurse on weekends and holidays. As we all know, IVF can't be scheduled like traditional things. I got a positive OPK on Easter Sunday. I was able to reach a nurse right away for next steps. When she wasn't sure, she called Dr. Akopians and got an answer right away (on Easter Sunday). I was blown away at the level of care and access. These people are just passionate about their jobs.
They also have a patient care coordinator named Ari, who is just as amazing as the nurses. Responds promptly to any question and is just wonderful.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
We are not complete with the process yet. But at the consult we were given a cost/fee sheet with breakdowns of SCRC's fees, the lab's fees, the anesthesiologist fees, testing fees and an estimate of prescription costs. So far it has been very accurate and helpful. I estimate we will have paid around $28k when complete with one cycle (including ICSI, PGS testing, etc).
I feel I was treated like a human due to the time and effort she [Dr. Akopians] and her staff [SCRC] has taken to help me through the process. I work in the medical field and I tend to ask many questions. ... She provided me with data and additional process facts that helped educate and reassure me. She gave me a sense of comfort due to her communication, reassurance, empathy and her confidence.
They [SCRC] should improve their check out process were you typically pay your fees. More privacy should be created for this check out process. The semen collection rooms are near public areas were there is a lot of traffic. They are currently expanding to make more rooms and allow more privacy and quiet environment outside the semen collection rooms
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians quickly assessed my anxiety and need for control at the beginning of my IVF process. She took time to explain each detail. She wrote steps down for me so I could focus on listening but also having note to reference later. I pride myself in being organized and detail oriented so her notes were wonderful for me. She was patient with all my questions that constantly diverted the conversation. She provided me with data and additional process facts that helped educate and reassure me. She gave me a sense of comfort due to her communication, reassurance, empathy and her confidence. Her ability to make me feel at ease and confident in her abilities has been essential.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
She is accessible in person if you like that type constant interaction. If you’re like me I didn’t see her in person very often but I spoke with her over phone calls which worked well with my lifestyle.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
I feel I was treated like a human due to the time and effort she and her staff has taken to help me through the process. I work in the medical field and I tend to ask many questions. The communication that Dr. Akopians and her staff have provided me has exceeded my expectations. They have provided me with the quality time I have needed to go through each step.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
Due to the know low sperm count and motility my husband had she had him take medication to increase his quantity and motility. Due to all our infectious disease labs being expired we had to re do them. We had sperm frozen in another facility. Dr. Akopians asked us to transfer it to her facility as backup for our process. Due to our sperm ICSI was recommended and used. Due to our sperm it was recommended to use an embryo scope to reduce the amount of times the embryos are manipulated to give them a higher chance to do well. We used the embryo scope.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Julia Fletcher)
I absolutely love the nurse assigned to me. As I’ve mentioned I ask a lot of questions. I like to know all my facts and opinions. I would email the nurse daily or even multiple times a day. I felt bad for emailing and calling so often but she reassured me that that is why she was there to help. She is extremely caring and reassuring. Her patients to walk me through all my injections questions and nervous was incredible.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
There are always a lot of patients but they have a fast well organized process that gets all patients in and out in a timely organized manner.
They should improve their check out process were you typically pay your fees. More privacy should be created for this check out process.
The semen collection rooms are near public areas were there is a lot of traffic. They are currently expanding to make more rooms and allow more privacy and quiet environment outside the semen collection rooms
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
Consultation $275. Transvaginal US $230. Labs:Assay of Estradiol $85, FSH $85, Lh $85, assay thyroid stim hormone $85, venipuncture $30. Embryo freeze all: Cycle management fee $715, monitoring $3140, retrieval $2440. Frozen Embryo transfer: cycle management fee $715, monitoring $1590, embryo transfer $1065. Had to pay other fees for the surgery center and for the cryobank facility.
Describe Alin Lina Akopians's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Southern California Reproductive Center.
Due to our specific scenario and factors only one embryo will be transferred. Dr. Akopians made it sound like all other scenarios also only one embryo is encouraged to increase the transplant success rate. Ever couples scenario is unique.
I wanted a doctor who was going to coddle me enough but also treat me with respect during this hard time. Dr. Akopains was a lot of that and more. She is incredible, hands on, explained everything/broke everything down, incredibly kind, patient, caring, gentle but stern when necessary...I love everything about her. I was so sad to graduate...Omintrope 25 cc - for egg quality...Mock ERA cycle - to up my odds for an embryo to stick during transfer. Saline ultrasound Transfer cycle: Birth control. Lupron injections. Estrace orally Endometrin Medrol Progesterone in oil 1ML
SCRC is LARGE! Sometimes it is hard to not feel a little lost. With Surrey's team, I felt like a number. With Dr. Akopains team, because of the care and one on one time spent, I felt cared for. However, SCRC is one of the best for the reason. All the techs, embryologists, etc. were great...SHE [nurse] WAS THE BEST!!!! So caring, kind, compassionate, personable, educated, helpful...During my time with Dr. Surrey...the nurse gave me the wrong information about my embryo results after the genetic testing. She read the results wrong and gave them to me directly . Surrey called to correct them later.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
I came from working with Dr. Surrey who had the worse bed side manner. I wanted a doctor who was going to coddle me enough but also treat me with respect during this hard time. Dr. Akopains was a lot of that and more. She is incredible, hands on, explained everything/broke everything down, incredibly kind, patient, caring, gentle but stern when necessary...I love everything about her. I was so sad to graduate.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Ask questions...she will answer it all!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
I came from working with Dr. Surrey who treated me like a number. Dr. Akopains was incredible, hands on, explained everything/broke everything down, incredibly kind, patient, caring, gently but stern when necessary...I love everything about her.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
IVF egg retrieval:
Birth control.
Followed by:
Gonal F 200 units
Menopur 75 units
Omintrope 25 cc - for egg quality
Cetrotide
Trigger shot (don't recall the name)
Mock ERA cycle - to up my odds for an embryo to stick during transfer.
Saline ultrasound
Transfer cycle:
Birth control.
Lupron injections.
Estrace orally
Endometrin
Medrol
Progesterone in oil 1ML
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Julia Fletcher)
SHE WAS THE BEST!!!! So caring, kind, compassionate, personable, educated, helpful.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
SCRC is LARGE! Sometimes it is hard to not feel a little lost. With Surrey's team, I felt like a number. With Dr. Akopains team, because of the care and one on one time spent, I felt cared for. However, SCRC is one of the best for the reason. All the techs, embryologists, etc. were great.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
Insurance did not cover anything. I do not know the exact number but it was somewhere between $20-25k including freezing, genetic testing, procedures, medications, etc.
Describe Alin Lina Akopians's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Southern California Reproductive Center.
We did the mock ERA cycle for this reason. I did not have many embryos and we did not want to take the risk of losing any.
What specific things went wrong at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Southern California Reproductive Center.
During my time with Dr. Surrey...the nurse gave me the wrong information about my embryo results after the genetic testing. She read the results wrong and gave them to me directly . Surrey called to correct them later.
Dr. Akopian and I sat for over and hour and never in that time did I feel she was rushing through the conversation. She gave me a run down of our options ( at that point ) drew illustrations for me to better understand and made me feel hopeful again. ... She personally called me to give me my results after each test I have had up to date ( US readings, Blood test, Genetics, etc) I never had to chase her down or wait long for my results, Dr. Akopian was on top of it.
A financial advisor [Southern California Repro Center] is present to assist in the payment options ... Julia is such the sweetest nurse I have come across. She was so warm, friendly and on top of everything. She was the first one I came in contact, she could tell I was nervous ( I was alone) she walked me through a bit, made sure I was comfortable. ... The office staff is genuine and nice as well. I been bragging about this office since I first stepped into it. 5 stars all around!
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
She is genuinely warm and compassionate. She explains everything in great detail. She personally called me to give me my results after each test I have had up to date ( US readings, Blood test, Genetics, etc) I never had to chase her down or wait long for my results, Dr. Akopian was on top of it.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. She has answers and is more then willing to educate.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
My husband and I are really early in the whole process of IVF. We have been trying for almost 4 years. After our primary doctors lead us down the wrong paths I decided to reach out to SCRC in Beverly Hills. First visit Dr. Akopian and her nurse Julia were so warm and explained every detail to me. Dr. Akopian and I sat for over and hour and never in that time did I feel she was rushing through the conversation. She gave me a run down of our options ( at that point ) drew illustrations for me to better understand and made me feel hopeful again.Her Nurse Julia is a total sweetheart and kept up with my weekly to make sure I was getting the proper care for my husband who was seeing the wrong Urologist for 2 years (Recommended by his primary for fertility), Dr. Akopian and Julia (RN) also helped us find him a proper urologist who specializes in fertility for men( whom my husband fell in love with after the first visit). The office staff is genuine and nice as well. I been bragging about this office since I first stepped into it. 5 stars all around!
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
N/A
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Julia)
Julia is such the sweetest nurse I have come across. She was so warm, friendly and on top of everything. She was the first one I came in contact, she could tell I was nervous ( I was alone) she walked me through a bit, made sure I was comfortable. By the time Dr. Akopian came in she and I were joking about something none related which helped me to relax
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
There are 2 different offices on the floor exiting the elevator I was a bit confused. It’s an open concept. That’s about it, front office staff is nice, helpful and willing to answer basic questions and info
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
I personally paid out of pocket. Insurance covers some portions. A financial advisor is present to assist in the payment options
I am beyond grateful to have had the pleasure of being under Dr. Akopians' care. She is knowledgeable, caring with excellent bedside manner. Truly a master at what she does and a remarkable human! She called with our embryo report to let us know how many eggs had been fertilized, the condition of the embryos and how many were going to get sent out for genetic testing. Once she received our genetic report, she called us back to let us know how many genetically normal embryos we had.
One thing a new patient [at SCRC] should know is that it's critical to have access to your patient portal. The clinical team and surgery center nurses all communicate through the portal so it's essential. The clinical team calls and sends correspondences after each visit notifying you of next steps, results and instructions. Make sure you have access to the portal. It is the fastest and easiest way to communicate with your team.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
She is kind, straightforward and compassionate. I would recommend her to anyone who needs guidance to embark on this journey. She is highly knowledgeable and I trusted her implicitly. Her expertise made this journey seamless.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
TRUST her! She knows what she is doing. She is honest and tells you how it is. She will tell you what will work for you and what wont. Trust her.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
I am beyond grateful to have had the pleasure of being under Dr. Akopians' care. She is knowledgeable, caring with excellent bedside manner. Truly a master at what she does and a remarkable human! She called with our embryo report to let us know how many eggs had been fertilized, the condition of the embryos and how many were going to get sent out for genetic testing. Once she received our genetic report, she called us back to let us know how many genetically normal embryos we had.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Mariam)
Mariam is Dr. Akopians' nurse in Pasadena. She is just as kind and compassionate as Dr. Akopians herself.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
One thing a new patient should know is that it's critical to have access to your patient portal. The clinical team and surgery center nurses all communicate through the portal so it's essential. The clinical team calls and sends correspondences after each visit notifying you of next steps, results and instructions. Make sure you have access to the portal. It is the fastest and easiest way to communicate with your team.
All calls had to be routed through her [Dr. Akopians] staff. Even though fertility treatments are time-sensitive, she would not respect my time. I was routinely kept waiting for IUI procedures, which take less than 5 minutes to do. One time, I waited 2 hours past my scheduled IUI procedure report time. There was no explanation as to why that occurred. She seemed uninterested in taking the time to diagnose me or find out why the IUIs were not working (maybe due to her truancy). She tried to steer me to a different path, one that cost significantly more money, and was not attentive to my care.
When I had my IUI, she [the nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center] forgot to order the sperm be transferred to the lab, resulting in an hour and a half delay. She forgot to put in my prescription for progesterone to the pharmacy...Schedules and timing were missed or not communicated. I received conflicting information from my doctor which I think impacted my care and my results. The nursing staff is overwhelmed, overworked, rude, or all three. The likelihood of results was not explained to me, nor was I given any explanation as to what to expect. Statistics and percentages are skewed, perhaps with the intention of giving false hope.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
She seemed focused on my age. We discussed IVF, but she did not want to proceed. When the IUIs did not work out, she did not adjust my treatment, she just kept recommending IUIs. When, at her suggestion, I decided to use donor eggs, only one usable embryo was obtained. Dr. Akopians was cavalier in her delivery and attitude. I asked her why a 25-year old donor was only producing 1 usable embryo, and she said, "Sometimes, that happens." Well, it shouldn't happen when you're charging $15,000 for an unusable egg lot. It also goes against everything she told me with regard to the link between maternal age and usable eggs. If a young woman is producing good-quality eggs, then we should have more than 1 usable embryo.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Look for another doctor. She misrepresents data and does bot communicate with her patients in a timely, trustworthy, or direct manner.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
I could never get in touch with her. All calls had to be routed through her staff.
Even though fertility treatments are time-sensitive, she would not respect my time. I was routinely kept waiting for IUI procedures, which take less than 5 minutes to do. One time, I waited 2 hours past my scheduled IUI procedure report time. There was no explanation as to why that occurred.
She seemed uninterested in taking the time to diagnose me or find out why the IUIs were not working (maybe due to her truancy). She tried to steer me to a different path, one that cost significantly more money, and was not attentive to my care.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
I went to her to undergo IVF. She said that we could try. Even though I had a low ovarian reserve, she started me on birth control (I was told by another doctor this is the exact opposite course of treatment one would take for a woman with low ovarian reserve). No surprise, I only had 2 follicles grow when I started the medication. She then told me that she would not do the IVF because she needed at least 4 follicles to "make it worthwhile." We then opted to do IUI. She had me take FSH, which is unnecessary in a "natural" cycle, as you only need 1 good egg, not multiples. That did not work out, so she recommended I go with dobir eggs, which I did. I had to take out a loan to get the eggs, and chose a healthy, 25-year old female. The paperwork they have you sign indicates you are only guaranteed one blastocyst, not a euploid embryo, which means, in layman's terms, you'll get at least 1 embryo, not a chromosomally-normal embryo, not a usable embryo. Thus, you could get an entire egg lot with no usable embryos. She never explained this to me. I had to figure it out on my own. The healthy, 25-year old donor only produced 1 chromosomally-normal embryo. That means out of the 7 eggs, only 14% were normal, a far cry from what Dr. Akopians told me and no relevant nexus between the science and the results.
She then recommended an ERA, which added on $2,740 to the costs. An ERA has not been tested significantly, and has not been shown to yield higher success rates in pregnancy. I feel that Dr. Akopians is not motivated by her success in getting patients pregnant, but rather on how much money they will spend in doing so.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Julia )
Julia is nice enough, but in addition to being nice, you also need to be competent. Sahar was the first nurse I dealt with, and she seemed to know what she was doing. Sahar left mysteriously, with no explanation given as to her absence. No one told me she left. When I called to schedule, I was told I would now be dealing with Julia. Julia forgets things. For instance, when I had bloidwork, she forgot to tell me I had to fast, so the phlebotomist was none too happy, and informed me that if the test came back abnormal, I'd have to do it again.
When I had my IUI, she forgot to order the sperm be transferred to the lab, resulting in an hour and a half delay. She forgot to put in my prescription for progesterone to the pharmacy. Progesterone is needed for a baby to grow.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
SCRC is a hotbed of incompetence. The staff all seemed stressed or overwhelmed and you can never get a straight answer our of them. They tried to charge me for procedures when I had credits pending on my account. You have to remind them of everything. When you do remind them, they get defensive, and reply in a hostile manner. They don't give you updates on care or how long you'll be waiting. One particularly frustrated nurse informed me that they usually only have one nurse, one lab tech, and one receptionist handling patients for 5 doctors. With a skeleton crew, things are going to get missed. They're going to get overlooked. People are no longer people. They are just numbers.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
Strangely, even though my insurance provides for ultrasounds, they charged me for each and every one. Same goes for bloodwork. My insurance does not provide for fertility treatments, so I had to pay for that. IUIs were incorrectly charged. At one point, I was charged $345, another point, $270. Ironically, even though the IUIs are a medical procedure m, they cost less than the ultrasounds and bloodwork, which can be performed by any nurse.
Costs associated with donor egg and FET:
$15,000 for donor eggs (no guarantees)
$15,000 for egg thaw, insemination, testing, ERA, and FET.
Describe Alin Lina Akopians's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Southern California Reproductive Center.
For me, this was inapplicable, as I only had one usable embryo.
What specific things went wrong at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Failed to convey critical information
Scheduled the wrong procedure
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Southern California Reproductive Center.
As I mentioned before, this clinic is borderline incompetent. Schedules and timing were missed or not communicated. I received conflicting information from my doctor which I think impacted my care and my results. The nursing staff is overwhelmed, overworked, rude, or all three. The likelihood of results was not explained to me, nor was I given any explanation as to what to expect. Statistics and percentages are skewed, perhaps with the intention of giving false hope.
[Dr. Alin Lina Akopians] intentions are to truly help with the least amount of intervention possible. She will take the time to listen and answer all of your questions and make sure that you understand everything so don’t hesitate to ask questions...I never felt rushed and she was making sure that I understood everything we were discussing and answered all my questions. She even drew things out for me and explained in such detail. She had gone through all my previous records before my consultation and was up to date on my history, which made things a lot easier because I didn’t have to go through and explain things (which I had to do with the two previous doctors I had seen). I felt so comfortable with her and was so impressed that she had reviewed everything. This definitely made my consultation very personal and individualized to my care.
The clinic [Southern California Reproductive Center] was always clean and organized. The nurses were always running around. It’s definitely a busy clinic, but I never waited more than about 10 minutes. I noticed it is easier to email rather than call. I would get responses much faster...[Dr. Alin Lina Akopians] intentions are to truly help with the least amount of intervention possible. She will take the time to listen and answer all of your questions and make sure that you understand everything so don’t hesitate to ask questions...I never felt rushed and she was making sure that I understood everything we were discussing and answered all my questions. She even drew things out for me and explained in such detail. She had gone through all my previous records before my consultation and was up to date on my history, which made things a lot easier because I didn’t have to go through and explain things (which I had to do with the two previous doctors I had seen). I felt so comfortable with her and was so impressed that she had reviewed everything. This definitely made my consultation very personal and individualized to my care.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians is one of the warmest, compassionate, and honest doctors I have ever met. During my consultation, I immediately knew that she was the answer to our issues. She had such a great understanding of exactly what was going on. She explained to me what her plan was going to be, which was completely different than my past treatments. She was very quick to identify a few contributing factors that weren’t looked into in my past appointments with different fertility centers.
I felt refreshed, I was so comfortable and felt hopeful for the first time. She truly restored my hope into being able to use my own eggs (which is the opposite of what I was told by two other doctors). I was so nervous and anxious that she would say the same thing- luckily that was not the case. As if the emotional distress wasn't enough, the financial distress of having to use donor eggs was just not some thing my husband and I were prepared for at 32 years of age.
She looked me in the eyes and told me she was going to try and get me pregnant naturally! I was shocked. A few weeks ago we were getting ready to clean out our savings account while I was trying to come to terms with having to use a donor egg.
Her intelligence made me trust her. I knew her protocol was not financially driven. This was a HUGE relief for me.
I had my evaluation the same day. She called me next day with all my results and we confirmed our protocol as it was apparent I was close to ovulation. Her nurse emailed me everything in writing after our call and fast forward to 2 weeks later, I’M PREGNANT !!!!
I honestly couldn’t believe it. Still in shock. I can’t imagine if it wasn’t for Dr. Akopians I would be in the process of choosing donor eggs. I can’t believe she was able to make this miracle happen for us with such minimal intervention And monitoring!!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Trust her. Her intentions are to truly help with the least amount of intervention possible. She will take the time to listen and answer all of your questions and make sure that you understand everything so don’t hesitate to ask questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
I had a very positive experience with my consultation. Dr. Akopians really took her time with me (over an hour). I never felt rushed and she was making sure that I understood everything we were discussing and answered all my questions. She even drew things out for me and explained in such detail. She had gone through all my previous records before my consultation and was up to date on my history, which made things a lot easier because I didn’t have to go through and explain things (which I had to do with the two previous doctors I had seen). I felt so comfortable with her and was so impressed that she had reviewed everything. This definitely made my consultation very personal and individualized to my care.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
The clinic was always clean and organized. The nurses were always running around. It’s definitely a busy clinic, but I never waited more than about 10 minutes. I noticed it is easier to email rather than call. I would get responses much faster.
Dr. Akopians was extremely patient with me. I had MANY questions since I had already seen one doctor before her. She put me at ease and answered everything with no rushing me...She is very real and honest. I appreciate a doctor who doesn’t try to make everything seem perfect...We tried 2 IUIs with Clomid. I responded well, but no pregnancy...I felt secure that she was treating me individually, rather than prescribing a protocol that’s “generic” for everyone. This was tailored to ME. I felt very cared for.
Julia was a wonderful nurse [SCRC]. She kept me informed of how I was doing with my stim cycle. She called me every time I came in to give me instructions and make my next appointment...Front desk - stellar Billing - could use a bit better communication, but they were all very nice. I dealt with Jocelyn and Erika...The ultrasound tech, Neha and Diane were SO good to me. Very gentle and took their time.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
She is very real and honest. I appreciate a doctor who doesn’t try to make everything seem perfect. I came to the fertility clinic for a reason. I want to know what to do and how I can get to the point of holding my healthy baby in my arms.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Make sure to be on time. Because it’s courteous. She’s a busy doctor. She respected my time, so I try to do the same.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians was extremely patient with me. I had MANY questions since I had already seen one doctor before her. She put me at ease and answered everything with no rushing me.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
We tried 2 IUIs with Clomid. I responded well, but no pregnancy. I was ready to move ahead with IVF. We had an entire new phone talk about IVF and the success rates (SCRC has the best success rates), the hormones and side effects, the length of treatment, and potential outcomes.
It was all very thorough. And I felt secure that she was treating me individually, rather than prescribing a protocol that’s “generic” for everyone. This was tailored to ME. I felt very cared for.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Julia Fletcher)
Julia was a wonderful nurse. She kept me informed of how I was doing with my stim cycle. She called me every time I came in to give me instructions and make my next appointment. She has a Southern accent. You can’t miss her! She’s lovely and very kind.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
Front desk - stellar
Billing - could use a bit better communication, but they were all very nice. I dealt with Jocelyn and Erika.
Waiting room - social distancing and Covid screening causes a bit of a wait, but it’s understandable.
The ultrasound tech, Neha and Diane were SO good to me. Very gentle and took their time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
My insurance doesn’t cover anything diagnosed as infertility.
The cost was around 25K for my whole treatment.
My meds were expensive, but Julia have me $200 with of coupons to use at the pharmacy
Describe Alin Lina Akopians's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Southern California Reproductive Center.
She said we can discuss when we get to that point. I’m probably aiming to transfer 2 embryos....if she would be willing. I will do what she recommends.
Dr Akopians was always so knowledgeable and respectful of my wishes to have a baby . She informed me of the whole process step by step and never made me feel rushed or pushed to make decisions. She is a wonderful Doctor...I I did a clomid/iui cycle I also did progesterone...always called me with results. I love all the staff and the Doctor so much for making my baby dreams come.
My experience with the staff and this clinic [Southern California Reproductive Center] was phenomenal. The only down side is the wait time but do you expect from a world renown clinic!?! Thankfully, the front desk, lab and ultrasound department tried their best to take me back with minimal wait time. The doctor and her clinical team addressed all my questions and concerns on a timely manner. Overall, I had a pleasant experience. SCRC is a busy practice but I am completely satisfied with the quality of my care.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr Akopians was always so knowledgeable and respectful of my wishes to have a baby . She informed me of the whole process step by step and never made me feel rushed or pushed to make decisions. She is a wonderful Doctor.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
I would send all my friends to her because she will respect your wishes and make a plan just for you . She is the right choice .
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
I was always acknowledged by the staff and Dr. Akopians always called me with results. I love all the staff and the Doctor so much for making my baby dreams come.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
I I did a clomid/iui cycle
I also did progesterone
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Julia )
Julia was great and was so patient with me during this process. She was always available to answer any questions I had and never made me feel like a burden.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
My experience with the staff and this clinic was phenomenal. The only down side is the wait time but do you expect from a world renown clinic!?! Thankfully, the front desk, lab and ultrasound department tried their best to take me back with minimal wait time. The doctor and her clinical team addressed all my questions and concerns on a timely manner. Overall, I had a pleasant experience. SCRC is a busy practice but I am completely satisfied with the quality of my care.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
Most of my visits were covered by insurance. If any payment was made it was my co-payment, my co-insurance balance and my cycle management fee for my treatment.
Dr. Akopians was very caring and helpfull and no matter when I contacted her she always replied right away...is an incredible doctor. she is so compassionate and knowledgable. she replied to every text I sent her right away and she answered each and every one of my questions. She comforted me when I was in destress and overall she made the whole experience so easy...
Everyone was helpful and nice, I had a great experience [at Southern California Reproductive Center]. The whole process was very smooth. I am really thankful to everyone from front desk to my nurses. My nurses went above and beyond to make sure everything goes smoothly. Even after my egg retrieval they kept contacting me and tried to help me in anyway they could.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians is an incredible doctor. she is so compassionate and knowledgable. she replied to every text I sent her right away and she answered each and every one of my questions. She comforted me when I was in destress and overall she made the whole experience so easy.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians was very caring and helpfull and no matter when I contacted her she always replied right away.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Southern California Reproductive Center.
Sophia and Julia were great. Always ready to help and very caring.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
Everyone was helpful and nice, I had a great experience. The whole process was very smooth. I am really thankful to everyone from front desk to my nurses. My nurses went above and beyond to make sure everything goes smoothly. Even after my egg retrieval they kept contacting me and tried to help me in anyway they could.
I absolutely loved Dr. Akopians! She’s caring and so knowledgeable, and went the extra mile for me to ensure that I was fully informed about certain procedures that needed to take place. She answered all my questions and spent a crucial amount of time with me making me feel that I was comfortable throughout the whole experience...has by far been the most compassionate doctor I have ever met. She has incredible bed aide manner and presented to me clearly all the information I needed to hear about egg retrieval for freezing my eggs for the future.
[Staff at Southern California Reproductive Center is] Very kind and informative just like Dr. Akopians. Best staff ever...Front desk staff was very welcoming and greeted everyone with a kind smile on their face. They were organized, prompt and I only waited for a short amount of time. The office was well maintained, and clean...I absolutely loved Dr. Akopians! She’s caring and so knowledgeable, and went the extra mile for me to ensure that I was fully informed about certain procedures that needed to take place. She answered all my questions and spent a crucial amount of time with me making me feel that I was comfortable throughout the whole experience.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
I absolutely loved Dr. Akopians! She’s caring and so knowledgeable, and went the extra mile for me to ensure that I was fully informed about certain procedures that needed to take place. She answered all my questions and spent a crucial amount of time with me making me feel that I was comfortable throughout the whole experience.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Don’t be scared or nervous!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians has by far been the most compassionate doctor I have ever met. She has incredible bed aide manner and presented to me clearly all the information I needed to hear about egg retrieval for freezing my eggs for the future.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Southern California Reproductive Center.
Very kind and informative just like Dr. Akopians. Best staff ever
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
Front desk staff was very welcoming and greeted everyone with a kind smile on their face. They were organized, prompt and I only waited for a short amount of time. The office was well maintained, and clean.
From our first consultation until we "graduated" to an OBGYN with a successful pregnancy, Dr. Akopians was a great doctor. She is empathetic, has great bed side manner and always very willing to explain what's happening in granular details. I always felt listened to, she always made sure I knew all of my options and their pros/cons/risks and she was also willing to explore alternatives...I would generally only see Dr. Akopians in person for procedures (IUIs, transfer etc.). All monitoring appointments were with the support team
SCRC is a large clinic so it's strength and weaknesses are pretty much in line with what you'd expect. It's busy but well run so while morning monitoring appointments would book up, I never had any issues getting a time that worked for my schedule. The facility always felt up-to-date and modern. I was diligent about reviewing billing etc. and never had any major issues. Any questions I did have were promptly answered and resolved if necessary.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
From our first consultation until we "graduated" to an OBGYN with a successful pregnancy, Dr. Akopians was a great doctor. She is empathetic, has great bed side manner and always very willing to explain what's happening in granular details. I always felt listened to, she always made sure I knew all of my options and their pros/cons/risks and she was also willing to explore alternatives. For example, I requested to try a natural IVF transfer cycle and because I was a good candidate for it, she was supportive of us trying that method instead of the standard medicated route.
From the get-go Dr. Akopians laid out our options, listened to our preferences and set a plan we were all comfortable with to begin treatment. As we went through the process, I would generally only see Dr. Akopians in person for procedures (IUIs, transfer etc.). All monitoring appointments were with the support team (nurses etc.) however I felt like I could always have a call with Dr. Akopians if needed and she was always the one to call with test results or updates. Due to scheduling, I had a few procedures with other doctors at SCRC and felt like those instances were handled well and communication amongst them was good.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Have questions ready for your calls with Dr. Akopians. Being prepared and ready to dive in on those calls helped us make more informed decisions on our care. Dr. Akopians does not over-explain so if you want more than the necessary details, be ready to ask those questions - she is more than willing to answer and give you that time.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Throughout the whole process, it always felt like Dr. Akopians was well-versed in our case, where we were in a cycle and our preferences for next steps. I was a patient both at the Beverly Hills and Pasadena locations and both had wonderful teams that really felt like were on our side for the journey. The Beverly Hills clinic was much bigger (more Drs, more patients) and a little less personal during monitoring visits but to be expected given that this is a big clinic with multiple Drs. From receptionists, phlebotomists and ultrasound techs I always had great experiences with the teams.
How competent was Alin Lina Akopians at LGBTQ+ care?
Dr. Akopians was always welcoming and understanding of the nuances my wife and I brought to the fertility process and how that may alter our care. She seemed well versed in our options and we always felt supported in our decisions.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Miriam (Pasadena) and Julie (BH))
Dr. Akopians nursing team was great overall. At Pasadena, there were a few times I had to follow up on results and medication quantities. Those instances felt more like general human error and were the exception, not the norm. But in general, you do need to stay on top of your own case and read everything carefully. There are always lots of moving pieces but always felt like I could reach out if something came up. The care from the BH team was fantastic, I never had any issues.
I always felt like the team was rooting for me and that I had their support during the whole journey.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
SCRC is a large clinic so it's strength and weaknesses are pretty much in line with what you'd expect. It's busy but well run so while morning monitoring appointments would book up, I never had any issues getting a time that worked for my schedule. The facility always felt up-to-date and modern. I was diligent about reviewing billing etc. and never had any major issues. Any questions I did have were promptly answered and resolved if necessary.
Describe Alin Lina Akopians's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Southern California Reproductive Center.
Dr. Akopians (like us) had a strong preference for single embryo transfer.
To be honest, I didn’t see too much of Dr Akopians during the treatment, but when I saw her, she was kind, informative and helpful...She delivers her messages in a short, sweet and more direct manner. Have your questions all prepared before seeing her so you can shoot them out and get the answers as efficiently as possible...The clinic was super efficient and I hardly had to wait longer than 10 minutes to see her or any of her team members...
Julia [nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center] was super helpful and kind. She was compassionate and patient, and provided answers I needed almost all of the time...clean and welcoming environment - very efficient - staff are all very helpful and kind - incredibly thorough...but SCRC was on the more expensive side...We would rather pay a premium and get these results instead of the large amount we paid at our previous fertility clinic that didn’t give us the results we wanted and had a terrible experience with their team...
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
She was informative, straightforward and honest. She helped us get the results we wanted and we couldn’t be happier! The clinic was super efficient and I hardly had to wait longer than 10 minutes to see her or any of her team members. This was incredible considering I often had to wait over 1 hour at the previous fertility clinic I was a patient at.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
She delivers her messages in a short, sweet and more direct manner. Have your questions all prepared before seeing her so you can shoot them out and get the answers as efficiently as possible
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
To be honest, I didn’t see too much of Dr Akopians during the treatment, but when I saw her, she was kind, informative and helpful. The team I saw every other visit in between though - ranging from the nurses to the phlebotomists, the receptionists and ultrasound team were incredibly warm, welcoming, comforting and kind. They helped the difficult process a lot easier to handle and manage.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Julia fletcher )
Julia was super helpful and kind. She was compassionate and patient, and provided answers I needed almost all of the time
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
Strengths:
- clean and welcoming environment
- very efficient
- staff are all very helpful and kind
- incredibly thorough
It’s not a weakness, because it’s effective, but SCRC was on the more expensive side
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
It was more on the expensive side, but I can’t complain because we got the results we wanted and couldn’t be happier. We would rather pay a premium and get these results instead of the large amount we paid at our previous fertility clinic that didn’t give us the results we wanted and had a terrible experience with their team
Dr. Akopians was compassionate, yet very direct. She always explained things in a clear, concise manner which was very helpful given how emotionally draining the process can be on the patient...methodical and smooth...Her dedication to getting the best results meant that there were adjustments we had to make (thyroid, vit D, uterine polyps etc) before we could get started with the embryo transfer process. Her approach was to get the biggest chance I could at having a successful outcome...
The nursing staff was warm and friendly throughout the entire process. They were always available to answer questions and I truly felt supported at SCRC with how attentive they were...Scheduling appointments is relatively easy...I appreciated being able to be in and out without waiting too long, especially at the Pasadena location...all the major procedures are done at the Beverly Hills location which, if you don't live very close, could be a negative. Many more patients visit this location so wait times are longer.
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
As a patient, the experience with Dr. Akopians was methodical and smooth. Her dedication to getting the best results meant that there were adjustments we had to make (thyroid, vit D, uterine polyps etc) before we could get started with the embryo transfer process. Her approach was to get the biggest chance I could at having a successful outcome. After one chemical pregnancy and a miscarriage, I finally got pregnant and gave birth to a healthy baby girl.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Trust in Dr. Akopians's process and throw the timeline you have in your head out the window as unexpected things will pop up.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Dr. Akopians was compassionate, yet very direct. She always explained things in a clear, concise manner which was very helpful given how emotionally draining the process can be on the patient.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Southern California Reproductive Center.
The nursing staff was warm and friendly throughout the entire process. They were always available to answer questions and I truly felt supported at SCRC with how attentive they were.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
Strengths: Scheduling appointments is relatively easy and the high volume of the clinic means there is a fairly efficient working system. I appreciated being able to be in and out without waiting too long, especially at the Pasadena location.
Weaknesses: Only weakness is that all the major procedures are done at the Beverly Hills location which, if you don't live very close, could be a negative. Many more patients visit this location so wait times are longer.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Southern California Reproductive Center.
They generally had a window on Tuesday mornings for ultrasound monitoring so I was able to pick a time within that slot that worked for me.
During the consultation, Dr. Akopians was very thorough. She answered all my questions and wasn’t pushy. I didn’t see her every appointment. Over the phone, I thought she was too straight to the point at first but that’s not the case at all. She’s a very warm and caring doctor. She doesn’t beat around the bush and tells you how it is which I completely appreciate. I had trust in her and her experience...
Mariam and Sophie [nurses at Southern California Reproductive Center] answered all my questions promptly, didn't make me feel crazy or stupid, was always warm and friendly...Pasadena wait time is pretty fast. I loved the clinical team, ultrasound techs and office manager. You have to go to the Beverly Hills office for some things though including the actual IUI procedure. Parking was inconvenient there, the front staff was not as friendly nor was the ultrasound tech...
How was your experience with Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
During the consultation, Dr. Akopians was very thorough. She answered all my questions and wasn’t pushy. I didn’t see her every appointment. Over the phone, I thought she was too straight to the point at first but that’s not the case at all. She’s a very warm and caring doctor. She doesn’t beat around the bush and tells you how it is which I completely appreciate.
I had trust in her and her experience – felt like I was in good hands every step of the way.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center?
My first pregnancy at the age of 32 was relatively fast and easy. I got pregnant after 3-4 months of TTC. 3 years later, I assumed getting pregnant second time around would be the same. I regret waiting over a year. I wish I went to see her sooner.
Describe the protocols Alin Lina Akopians used in your cycles at Southern California Reproductive Center and their degree of success.
1st cycle, I took clomid for my IUI but we didn't go through with IUI last minute because my uterine lining wasn't thickening. We tried naturally at home and wasn't successful.
2nd cycle, she monitored me. She thought I was the rare percentage of patients whose uterine lining thinned from clomid. I supplemented clomid with some injection and progesterone. We didn't do IUI in office but tried naturally at home and it wasn't successful.
3rd cycle, I took clomid, did injections at home and inserted progesterone. Went into the office for IUI and now I'm 31 weeks pregnant with twins.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Southern California Reproductive Center. (Assigned nurse: Mariam)
Very patient. Answered all my "urgent" questions. Everything is urgent and frantic after a year of trying unsuccessful and having a miscarriage. Mariam and Sophie answered all my questions promptly, didn't make me feel crazy or stupid, was always warm and friendly.
Describe your experience with Southern California Reproductive Center.
Pasadena wait time is pretty fast. I loved the clinical team, ultrasound techs and office manager. You have to go to the Beverly Hills office for some things though including the actual IUI procedure. Parking was inconvenient there, the front staff was not as friendly nor was the ultrasound tech. One thing BH location as for them is the male phlebotomist. Most phlebotomists have a hard time finding my veins so they poke me couple of times or have to dig and they have to use butterfly needles. He drew multiple vials and it was painless.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alin Lina Akopians at Southern California Reproductive Center.
Cash patient. 3 cycles cost around 3,000-4,000.
What specific things went wrong at Southern California Reproductive Center?
Lost appointments
Scheduled the wrong procedure
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Southern California Reproductive Center.
Wrong scheduling, confusion and long wait time was done at the BH location not the Pasadena one.