Anitha Nair
Shady Grove Fertility
Available Lines of Communication
doctor, nurse available by email
doctor, nurse available by email
doctor, nurse available by directline
doctor, nurse available by directline
doctor available by personal cell phone
doctor available by personal cell phone
Medical SchoolTexas Health
ResidencyGeorgetown
FellowshipTexas Health
Washington DC
2021 K Street NW
Washington, DC 20006
202.296.2595
Arlington
901 N Stuart Street Suite 610
Arlington, VA 22201
703.574.3772
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17 assessments
10
9
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2019 - 2020
Success with this Doc
30 Eggs Frozen
Treatment
1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
—
10
9
Dr. Nair was direct and honest. Initial consult was very informative and she was incredibly positive at the idea of being a single mother by choice. She saw me in person when I started treatment and hormone levels were very elevated, she explained everything and I understood my process clearly. She called to deliver the final news as well for my successful treatment...She answered all of my questions, she was open about her availability and that she was in two different locations so I might need to travel to see her. She saw me in person as I started treatment when my hormone levels were elevated early. She called once my treatment was complete to deliver all of my final news and was very excited for our results.
Twice I wasn't informed of changes in my protocol [at Shady Grove Fertility] and needed to call the emergency line to know my dosage for that evening...Loved that it [monitoring] was very early morning. Basically walk in even though there are appointments, dependent upon how many people were there. Staff was friendly and moved as quickly as they could...The appointment system is pointless for walk in blood work and ultrasound, it didn't matter if you had an appointment or not, it was only dependent on how many people were there. Also, I needed to call the clinic at least twice for my nightly dosage because I didn't receive a note through the portal or a call. The emergency hotline is good and I used it a few times.
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2019 - 2020
Success with this Doc
30 Eggs Frozen
Race
Black or African-American
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Consultant
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
—
10
9
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Nair was direct and honest. Initial consult was very informative and she was incredibly positive at the idea of being a single mother by choice. She saw me in person when I started treatment and hormone levels were very elevated, she explained everything and I understood my process clearly. She called to deliver the final news as well for my successful treatment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Understand that you will not be able to see the doctor every visit and that you are in good hands with the rest of the clinical staff.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Nair was professional, caring, honest and direct. She answered all of my questions, she was open about her availability and that she was in two different locations so I might need to travel to see her. She saw me in person as I started treatment when my hormone levels were elevated early. She called once my treatment was complete to deliver all of my final news and was very excited for our results.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
Started with standard Gonal 112 and started Menopur 1 vial on day 4 perhaps? Needed to dial back the gonal down to eventually I think 25-50. I triggered a day earlier than anticipated. We didn't want to hormones to outpace the growth of the follicles.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Jenn)
Jenn was great and communicated through the patient portal. I asked a lot of questions and she was always able to get back to me within a day or point me in the right direction for who would have my answers. She was friendly and professional.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
The appointment system is pointless for walk in blood work and ultrasound, it didn't matter if you had an appointment or not, it was only dependent on how many people were there. Also, I needed to call the clinic at least twice for my nightly dosage because I didn't receive a note through the portal or a call. The emergency hotline is good and I used it a few times.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Shady Grove Fertility.
Loved that it was very early morning. Basically walk in even though there are appointments, dependent upon how many people were there. Staff was friendly and moved as quickly as they could.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
$11,000
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
- Failed to call with results
- Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
Initial lab work had the results sent to the clinic but didn't hear anything back to confirm is they were good or not. Wrote nurse in portal and said everything looks good, would have told you if it was otherwise. I thought regardless, I shouldn't have to ask if results were good. Twice I wasn't informed of changes in my protocol and needed to call the emergency line to know my dosage for that evening.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
38 - 43
Treated
2015 - 2020
Success with this Doc
17 Eggs Frozen
Treatment
3 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis, Tubal Blockage
10
10
[Dr. Nair is] Warm, honest, compassionate...She truly cares about her patients, and can evaluate each patient’s specific needs to determine the best course of action. She tells the truth, shares empathy, and always strives for the best outcomes for each patient...was willing to be as aggressive and patient as I was willing to be. It took a maximum amount of ovarian stimulation each cycle, and I took 4-6 days longer than average to get to the right blood level numbers (showing optimal ovarian stimulation) each cycle. Other doctors would have likely cancelled my first cycle when it took so long. Dr Nair did discuss this possibility and ramifications with me, but did let me keep trying a bit longer. Turns out, I’m just a slow goer; we successfully harvested 6 eggs the first round, which I was ecstatic about given my poor indicators. She helped me maximize each of 3 cycles, through medication decisions, and was my cheerleader throughout the process. We harvested 18 eggs over 3 cycles (over 2ish years) and froze 17 mature eggs. A few years later, my new husband and I are starting the process to thaw and fertilize and hopefully transfer an embryo! As with the freezing procedures, I trust and valie her recommendations 100%.
My medication costs were at the highest end of the spectrum, due to my situation. Dr Nair’s team [at Shady Grove Fertility] gave me tips on how to find the most cost effective pharmacies to fill them...many positives include efficiency, a proven track record, multiple locations and ease of access, and great historical data on outcomes. Despite this “Big Center” status (for lack of a better term), I have never felt like “just” a number or “just” a source of revenue.
Age
38 - 43
Treated
2015 - 2020
Success with this Doc
17 Eggs Frozen
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis, Tubal Blockage
10
10
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Warm, honest, compassionate, and expert. I fully trust her advice and recommendations and feel like I could not have a better doctor for this journey. She truly cares about her patients, and can evaluate each patient’s specific needs to determine the best course of action. She tells the truth, shares empathy, and always strives for the best outcomes for each patient. She is a Godsend.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
This is the doctor that you want to work with! She’s on your side and in your fight as much as you are.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr Nair is exactly what you want in a fertility doctor: open, honest, transparent, warm. She has an excellent bedside manner, and gently shares all data (good & not so good) so that you can make the best decisions. She also inquires and cares about your emotional health, not just your physical health. I cannot recommend her enough.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
During early processes for elective egg freezing at age 37, it became apparent that I had diminished ovarian reserves and might not have the outcome I wanted. Dr Nair delivered these facts gently and compassionately, and was willing to be as aggressive and patient as I was willing to be. It took a maximum amount of ovarian stimulation each cycle, and I took 4-6 days longer than average to get to the right blood level numbers (showing optimal ovarian stimulation) each cycle. Other doctors would have likely cancelled my first cycle when it took so long. Dr Nair did discuss this possibility and ramifications with me, but did let me keep trying a bit longer. Turns out, I’m just a slow goer; we successfully harvested 6 eggs the first round, which I was ecstatic about given my poor indicators. She helped me maximize each of 3 cycles, through medication decisions, and was my cheerleader throughout the process. We harvested 18 eggs over 3 cycles (over 2ish years) and froze 17 mature eggs. A few years later, my new husband and I are starting the process to thaw and fertilize and hopefully transfer an embryo! As with the freezing procedures, I trust and valie her recommendations 100%.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Jennifer young)
So caring and communicative! She was proactive and checked in on procedures I had with my general ob/gyn to see how I was recovering!
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Shady Grove’s many positives include efficiency, a proven track record, multiple locations and ease of access, and great historical data on outcomes. Despite this “Big Center” status (for lack of a better term), I have never felt like “just” a number or “just” a source of revenue.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
My medication costs were at the highest end of the spectrum, due to my situation. Dr Nair’s team gave me tips on how to find the most cost effective pharmacies to fill them. The per cycle cost was hefty, yes, but I truly felt that I got what I paid for, from start to finish.
Describe Anitha Nair's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
Not yet!
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Ask this reviewer a question about their experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
8
8
Age
39 - 41
Treated
2017 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 3 IVF, 3 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
Unexplained
8
8
The times when she [Dr. Nair] has called to give me the bad news herself have always meant a lot to me. She really does seem to care, which is nice. ... That would be my only complaint - that she talks and moves so fast through the material. That being said, you don't feel rushed. ... 3 unsuccessful IUIs. Then 1 IVF using antagonist protocol. Then microdose Lupron protocol with PGS for the 2nd.
They [Shady Grove] have appointments very early in the morning so I have managed to have 6 fertility treatments without having to reveal to my work what is going on, because I can get in and out of there without being late every day. ... There are 3 different people I've dealt with regarding payment and insurance on the exact same issue and no one seems to be communicating with one another, or really trying all that hard to fix any problems.
Age
39 - 41
Treated
2017 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI, 3 IVF, 3 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
Unexplained
8
8
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
She is extremely intelligent and a wealth full of information. She does explain things in a way that makes sense, however she covers a lot of material very quickly. I'm always so glad that my husband is present when we meet in person, because we do always leave having to "compare notes" in a sense that we need to combine what each of us understood. That would be my only complaint - that she talks and moves so fast through the material. That being said, you don't feel rushed. You can ask as many questions as you want. It's just a matter of can you keep up to ask the right questions. I always take lots and lots of notes when we meet. The times when she has called to give me the bad news herself have always meant a lot to me. She really does seem to care, which is nice.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Take notes. Ask lots of questions. Don't be afraid to slow her down and ask for clarification/repetition if you need it.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Somewhere in between - the sheer numbers of patients going in and out of that clinic definitely made me feel like a number. However, Dr. Nair always made an effort to know me and my story.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
3 unsuccessful IUIs. Then 1 IVF using antagonist protocol. Then microdose Lupron protocol with PGS for the 2nd. Then microdose Lupron without PGS - could only do a fresh transfer for the 3rd. Getting ready to start a Lupron stop protocol.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
1. Always schedule the earliest appointment you can. They are efficient for sure, but if you have to get to work by a certain time, it can be very stressful on the days when they are not running on time.
2. Know your health insurance and DOUBLE CHECK everything that you are quoted from the financial counselors. And monitor your bills very closely. If I didn't understand what I do about health insurance, I think we would be out of a lot of money. There are 3 different people I've dealt with regarding payment and insurance on the exact same issue and no one seems to be communicating with one another, or really trying all that hard to fix any problems. I still have a credit on my account after I paid for a service that they assured me I owed - turns out I was right. But they won't let you start your treatment until you are financially "cleared" and you have paid in full. Just watch all of that very, very closely. And don't be afraid to second guess when someone else is asking for money - like the desk when you check out - the communication between parties is terrible there. I've paid I don't know how many co-pays that we unnecessary until I smartened-up and realized I could just speak up.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Shady Grove Fertility.
They have appointments very early in the morning so I have managed to have 6 fertility treatments without having to reveal to my work what is going on, because I can get in and out of there without being late every day.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
$1500 out of pocket max per year through my insurance plan. Plus cost of meds which was usually less than $500 per IVF treatment with my insurance.
Describe Anitha Nair's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
Haven't encountered this situation yet.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
9
Age
35 - 38
Treated
2016 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
9
I always felt like she [Dr. Anitha Nair] really cared about me as an individual. She asked about my work, never rushed when I had lots of questions, was candid yet compassionate in all of her communication. And even though my transfer was scheduled while she was on vacation, she called me to check in that morning!...She was fully present during our visits. She never rushed or seemed annoyed when I had a lot of questions. She treated me like an educated, informed adult (which is more than I can say for my prior doctor).
It was easy to get an appointment [at Shady Grove Fertility], and the locations are convenient. All of the staff were competent and kind. I did have to call to remind the insurance/billing specialist about my authorizations, after not hearing from them before a procedure...My nurse the first time was very good. She sometimes didn’t get back to me as quickly as I would have liked, but overall was compassionate and answered my questions and served as a very helpful resource. The other nurses and staff who I interacted with during monitoring appointments, etc. were all wonderful.
Age
35 - 38
Treated
2016 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
9
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
I always felt like she cared about the smallest details, and that she had my best interests at heart. She was fully present during our visits. She never rushed or seemed annoyed when I had a lot of questions. She treated me like an educated, informed adult (which is more than I can say for my prior doctor).
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Have your list of questions ready, and she will answer all of them!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
I always felt like she really cared about me as an individual. She asked about my work, never rushed when I had lots of questions, was candid yet compassionate in all of her communication. And even though my transfer was scheduled while she was on vacation, she called me to check in that morning!
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
We did a pretty standard (antagonist?) IVF protocol for a fresh transfer. It was the first cycle we had tried, after 3 failed IUIs at another clinic that declined to let us try a fresh transfer. I did not take BCP because I’ve had bad reactions in the past, and Dr. Nair was supportive of me declining that component. I responded well to the protocol.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility.
My nurse the first time was very good. She sometimes didn’t get back to me as quickly as I would have liked, but overall was compassionate and answered my questions and served as a very helpful resource. The other nurses and staff who I interacted with during monitoring appointments, etc. were all wonderful.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
It was easy to get an appointment, and the locations are convenient. All of the staff were competent and kind. I did have to call to remind the insurance/billing specialist about my authorizations, after not hearing from them before a procedure.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Shady Grove Fertility.
It definitely felt a little bit like a cattle call, but a well run one. I went in the morning before work and it was always packed but moved along fairly quickly.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
I had really good insurance coverage for the cycle, including meds. I had already met my out of pocket max, thanks to IUIs done earlier in the year, so my IVF cycle cost very little. I paid an office visit copay when I saw the doctor. The most expensive part was the cost for a nurse to help me at home with my injections the first few days (I was nervous!!). And also the embryo storage, which insurance did not cover.
Describe Anitha Nair's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
I was happy to do eSET, and Dr. Nair was fully supportive given my age and history.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
21
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
10
10
when I met Dr. Nair she showed me true kindness and compassion. She is honest, knowledgeable, and most importantly she gave me hope.... She was honest and thorough when explaining our options and let us feel in control of our treatment plan. Dr Nair worked together with us as a team and assured we were comfortable in our decision making process...Dr Nair suggested that while taking clomid if I produced too many mature eggs that cycle I should not go through with IUI
Most weaknesses are just small inconveniences such as location and parking situation. In my opinion their main weakness is that the receptionist fails to answer and return phone calls. In person she is very unfriendly. The clinical staff at Shady Grove is absolutely wonderful...The financial counselor is thorough in explaining what is covered by insurance and what is owed. They offer a generous 25% off discount for military families
Age
21
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European, Native American
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
When Dr. Nair first introduced herself to my husband and I she approached us with a welcoming voice and a kind smile. She made us feel comfortable and patiently listened to everything we had to say. Dr Nair showed empathy and compassion when I opened up to her about our previous miscarriages. She was honest and thorough when explaining our options and let us feel in control of our treatment plan. Dr Nair worked together with us as a team and assured we were comfortable in our decision making process. Overall Dr. Nair has many strengths and as far as I have seen she has not shown any weaknesses.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
I highly recommend seeing Dr. Nair. She is everything we have been looking for in a doctor. There aren’t many like her.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
I know what it’s like to feel like a number, I was treated as such by previous doctors who refused to provide further treatment for me... but when I met Dr. Nair she showed me true kindness and compassion. She is honest, knowledgeable, and most importantly she gave me hope.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
Dr Nair suggested that while taking clomid if I produced too many mature eggs that cycle I should not go through with IUI and take the chance conceiving multiples of 3 or more due to the increased risks of preterm labor and low birthweight.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Olga Mejia)
Our nurse was very organized and informative. She made sure we were satisfied and understood our treatment plan.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
The clinic has more strengths than weaknesses for sure. Most weaknesses are just small inconveniences such as location and parking situation. In my opinion their main weakness is that the receptionist fails to answer and return phone calls. In person she is very unfriendly.
The clinical staff at Shady Grove is absolutely wonderful. They go above and beyond to satisfy patient needs. They even provide visuals to help further understand procedures. The financial counselor is thorough in explaining what is covered by insurance and what is owed. They offer a generous 25% off discount for military families, and a 5%-25% off discount for qualifying patients who make under 95k per year. Overall i’m high Satisfied.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
Initial consultation along with diagnostics was covered by Tricare. (No copay or deductible) otherwise consultation is $175. IUI costs $1,800. Clomid $100-$500. 25% off Military discount. IVF $10-$15k.
Describe Anitha Nair's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
Dr Nair suggested transferring no more than 2 embryos.
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Ask this reviewer a question about their experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
34
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Other
10
10
Dr. Nair was extremely compassionate and kind throughout the entire IVF process...Dr. Nair sat down with us and walked us through their predictive model and what to expect. I felt she always had our best interest and safety in mind. For example, we were highly encouraged to only transfer one embryo...The stakes are high, both personally and financially, and Dr. Nair understands that.... Her gentle, kind, and compassionate demeanor really helped put me at ease and have full confidence in her and the team.
I was extremely satisfied with the care we received at Shady Grove Fertility... The only department at SGF I was not impressed with was the financial department. They were extremely disorganized and created a lot of unnecessary confusions in terms of treatments, cost, payments, etc....Debbie Rice was absolutely wonderful! She was kind and compassionate and I really connected with her. I emailed and spoke to her by phone almost daily throughout the IVF process.
Age
34
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Other
10
10
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
I was extremely satisfied with the care we received at Shady Grove Fertility and Dr. Nair. Dr. Nair had actually come recommended from a friend of mine who had been her patient and is now the mother of beautiful twins. Dr. Nair sat down with us and walked us through their predictive model and what to expect. I felt she always had our best interest and safety in mind. For example, we were highly encouraged to only transfer one embryo. While we only ended up with two embryos at the end of the process, instead of the four that the model predicted, both were A++ embryos and the one transferred resulted in our beautiful baby boy. I felt jilted by the fertility experience after a year of failed treatments abroad resulting in no pregnancies. Dr. Nair's kind and compassionate demeanor immediately allowed me trust her and trust the IVF process with Shady Grove Fertility.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Don't ignore their pre-IVF checklist. I had been undergoing fertility treatments for a year abroad (in Hong Kong) resulting in no pregnancies. While my husband's sperm analysis results showed issues, our doctor in Hong Kong did not look into why. I happen to see that an appointment with a urologist was recommended so I scheduled one with Dr. Shin. Dr. Shin identified the issue - my husband had a varicocele. We decided to move forward with IVF while at the same time my husband had the surgery to correct it. We are hoping this will help with conceiving children naturally in the future. Also, ask as many questions as you need to until you feel comfortable moving forward with the IVF process. The stakes are high, both personally and financially, and Dr. Nair understands that.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Nair was extremely compassionate and kind throughout the entire IVF process. She acknowledged the difficulties and discomforts. I felt that we were in great hands and I didn't have to micro manage the process. Though the personal and financial stakes where high, I fully and completely trusted her. When the outcome wasn't quite what was predicted (for example, the predictive model showed we would have four embryos at the end instead of two) she took my concerns into consideration and explained the results. Her gentle, kind, and compassionate demeanor really helped put me at ease and have full confidence in her and the team. She also knew I'd gone through a year of failed infertility treatments with a doctor (abroad) that I felt took our money knowing the treatments would fail. Knowing my sensitivities and distrust she paired me with Debbie Rice as my nurse, someone who was equality dependable, compassionate, and kind which really made it a smooth process.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
I took 17 days of birth control pills and then started taking the IVF medications. I started with Gonal F 150 IU and Menopur 75 IU and went in for monitoring daily. Each day they would call me with the results and let me know how to proceed with my medication. Adjustments were made to the dosages. For example, at on monitoring session the blood tests showed a spike in my progesterone which caused them to adjust the medication down, until the levels went down, and then they adjusted the medication up again. I also had a cyst in one of my ovaries which impacted the growth of follicles on that side. I felt bloated as the follicles matured but otherwise ok. Once they were close to reaching maturity, I was given very specific instructions on how and when to take Cetrotide - the trigger shot. Egg retrieval was the only time I felt I had not been prepared as I was in a lot of pain following the procedure. Fortunately, I filled the pain medication prescription they gave me and that helped alleviate the pain. Throughout the whole treatment, I was in daily contact with my nurse, Debbie Rice, or a backup if she was out of the office. My questions and concerns were promptly responded to. I felt very well informed and always knew exactly what I needed to do.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Debbie Rice)
Debbie Rice was absolutely wonderful! She was kind and compassionate and I really connected with her. I emailed and spoke to her by phone almost daily throughout the IVF process. She would give me very clear instructions and would explain if adjustments to my protocol were made and why. She also relayed questions I had to Dr. Nair or answered them when she could and even made me laugh, despite the insurmountable amount of stress I felt. She was gentle when she delivered the news about the final embryo count and allowed me to cry and process the news. I actually did not take a home pregnancy test in advance of the blood test following the transfer. When she delivered the news that I was pregnant it was a true surprise and I could tell she was reveling in our joy. She is amazing!
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Something to strongly consider when selecting a clinic is the quality of the embryologist and labs. Before I went through this process, I focused a lot on the doctor but having been through the process I now truly understand and appreciate the vital role the embryologist play in your IVF success. Once egg retrieval happens, they take over, carefully caring for each of the embryos and ensuring they develop properly. Also, I did acupuncture with Autumn at SGF throughout the cycle. She was so kind and knowledgeable. Each treatment I felt really helped me physically and emotionally and I would highly recommend it. On a personal note, I really appreciated that several members of my IVF team had been patients themselves. This allowed me to feel supported and understood during each phase. The only department at SGF I was not impressed with was the financial department. They were extremely disorganized and created a lot of unnecessary confusions in terms of treatments, cost, payments, etc. They tried to get me to pay for things that I didn't have to or had already paid for. Also, our insurance covered none of the treatment so we paid a lump sum for one IVF cycle. Despite the fact that all care was included, they billed my insurance for some of the appointments and procedures. I caught the claims and it was a headache to reverse but I felt it was so wrong for them to do that.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
We have Aetna insurance and they have negotiated rates with Shady Grove Fertility. Therefore, we paid $7,500 for the IVF cycle and about $3,000 for medication. I have to admit that one of the big draws to Shady Grove Fertility was the Shaded Risk Plan. After doing a lot of research and crunching numbers, we realized that it was not the right fit for us. One of the big reasons is because medication is not included. On top of the lump sum, you are paying $3-5k in medication for each cycle. Additionally, research indicated that they lean towards selecting couples for the program that have a higher chance of succeeding in the first cycle. Therefore, when they told us we were approved for the program I was hoping it was because they thought we'd be successful on the first cycle. It's a high stakes financial gamble where you have to hedge your bets. For some the program is worth it, for others it's not so do your research.
Describe Anitha Nair's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
We were highly encouraged to transfer one embryo. I have to admit that before starting IVF the thought of twins for the price of one cycle was extremely appealing. Though, after a lot of research I realized the risks. In the end, I agreed with Dr. Nair's advice of having one healthy baby at a time.
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
- Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
The only department at SGF I was not impressed with was the financial department. They were extremely disorganized and created a lot of unnecessary confusions in terms of treatments, cost, payments, etc. They tried to get me to pay for things that I didn't have to or had already paid for. Also, our insurance covered none of the treatment so we paid a lump sum for one IVF cycle. Despite the fact that all care was included, they billed my insurance for some of the appointments and procedures. I caught the claims and it was a headache to reverse but I felt it was so wrong for them to do that.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
4
Age
41
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
2 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Tubal Blockage
10
4
Dr. Nair always made herself available to my questions and concerns. She battled me on issues she felt would optimize my chances at conception but often deferred to my decisions about my own health...The only pharmaceutical intervention I allowed was Levothyroxine to lower my thyroid levels. I am otherwise in very good health. I am not sure the intervention was necessary but I was persuaded to try. The doctors group would not allow my IUI attempt without that intervention although my thyroid levels were normal for a woman not attempting to conceive.
Shady Grove has good equipment and many locations... one front staff member is regularly rude to patients, expressing how clearly she did not want to be there or she did not want you there. That said, the blood draw staff, run by an excellent head nurse, were professional while also friendly. The nursing staff who performed my sedated HCG were disengaged with me as a human being. They tried to rush me out of the center, and I was not yet then able to stand without help.
Age
41
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Black or African-American, Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Tubal Blockage
10
4
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Nair is knowledgeable, thoughtful, and takes time to listen to your thoughts. She understands the patient has authority over her own body. She was not as well located as I wished. Often I needed to visit the office where she wasn't practicing, but she just can't be at every location.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Explain your concerns. She will listen and try to work with you. She donor have the highest knowledge of holistic alternatives, but she won't shun that conversation. Most important, trust that wants you have a successful conception. Know yourself, educate yourself, and talk to her.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Nair always made herself available to my questions and concerns. She battled me on issues she felt would optimize my chances at conception but often deferred to my decisions about my own health.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
The only pharmaceutical intervention I allowed was Levothyroxine to lower my thyroid levels. I am otherwise in very good health. I am not sure the intervention was necessary but I was persuaded to try. The doctors group would not allow my IUI attempt without that intervention although my thyroid levels were normal for a woman not attempting to conceive.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Morgan)
Morgan was the third nurse assigned me. The first quit the group abruptly. The second was rude and pushy and exhibited bullying behavior. I immediately requested a change from the nursing supervisor and Dr. Nair. I was then assigned Morgan. She was far more even keeled and respectful and more than willing to assist.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Shady Grove has good equipment and many locations but there are some staffing challenges that likely relate it's set up as a baby making factory rather than a caring physician's office. In the Shady Grove location, one front staff member is regularly rude to patients, expressing how clearly she did not want to be there or she did not want you there. That said, the blood draw staff, run by an excellent head nurse, were professional while also friendly.
The nursing staff who performed my sedated HCG were disengaged with me as a human being. They tried to rush me out of the center, and I was not yet then able to stand without help. Again, the facility is run like a baby-making machine and with machines this large, a few bad pieces will likely get in. I did officially complain about the staff's conduct for the HCG procedure. I was not told what resulting follow up there was but I hope some retraining was done.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
I paid approximately $150 for all services including my sedated HCG. Please note I have one of the best insurance plans out there.
Describe Anitha Nair's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
N/A
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
- Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
This critique relates to the second nurse assigned me who demanded I start taking a prescription before I would be seen by my doctor. Obviously that was not true. When I demanded a conversation with Dr. Nair she concurred that I could proceed and obviously had access to her as my assigned fertility doctor. I requested a new nurse and was reassigned.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF, Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Other
10
10
She [Dr. Anitha Nair] was extremely honest and candid. We appreciated that she didn't "water down" the explanations of treatment. When things did not work out with our first transfer she was quick to recommend a more aggressive protocol that resulted in a pregnancy and live birth. Once we were pregnant she was very kind, keeping us as a patient as long as she was allowed and having us come in for several early scans to reassure us the pregnancy was progressing well.
Shady Grove is what I assume all clinics are like when you are undergoing elective and extremely profitable medical procedures-cold and focused on payment. Their financial services staff was extremely frustrating. They were unable to answer basic questions and would often tell us contridictorary things. It's the doctors and nurses that make the treatment process survivable...Our primary nurse was extremely positive and good with answering followup questions via email. The nurses that administered our clinical care (blood tests primarily) were wonderful. They made a real effort to get to know us and we're kind and positive throughout the long months we spent visiting them nearly daily.
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF, Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Other
10
10
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
She was extremely honest and candid. We appreciated that she didn't "water down" the explanations of treatment. When things did not work out with our first transfer she was quick to recommend a more aggressive protocol that resulted in a pregnancy and live birth. Once we were pregnant she was very kind, keeping us as a patient as long as she was allowed and having us come in for several early scans to reassure us the pregnancy was progressing well.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Make sure you like working with your assigned nurse, or request a transfer.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
She went above and beyond to call me and answer questions even outside of office hours.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
We were dealing with a specific issue-a balanced translocation-so the protocol was more straight forward then in cases where you don't know why you aren't getting pregnant. For our embryo transfers, after the first one didn't work Dr Nair recommended an endometrial biopsy which helped us diagnose a mild infection that could be treated and led to a more favorable environment for our second (successful) transfer.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Albano )
Our primary nurse was extremely positive and good with answering followup questions via email.
The nurses that administered our clinical care (blood tests primarily) were wonderful. They made a real effort to get to know us and we're kind and positive throughout the long months we spent visiting them nearly daily.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Shady Grove is what I assume all clinics are like when you are undergoing elective and extremely profitable medical procedures-cold and focused on payment. Their financial services staff was extremely frustrating. They were unable to answer basic questions and would often tell us contridictorary things.
It's the doctors and nurses that make the treatment process survivable.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
Most of our procedures were covered by insurance. Genetic testing was around $8000 out of pocket and embryo freezing and storage was $3000 plus $500/year.
Describe Anitha Nair's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
I'm glad that Dr. Nair recommended a single transfer. She clearly explained that especially since we were using genetically tested and therefore competent embryos, the research has shown that either both embryos or neither embryos will stick. We did not want to risk the complications of twins.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
10
10
She [Dr Anitha Nair] was very helpful in helping us decide how to move forward. We only spoke with her during the planning stages, however. Not during the treatments or between IUIs. But, the staff was so responsive, there wasn't really a need to reach out to her...Dr. Nair was very thorough with her explanations and allowed me to ask as many questions as possible. She was warm and easy to talk to, but also made sure I understood the reality of the situation, as I was not getting younger, and we had been trying for several years.
Although I was assigned a nurse [at Shady Grove Fertility], she left the clinic and I wasn't told right away. I was assigned another nurse, and the same thing happened. My current nurse has been helpful, but sometimes take a little too long to answer emails. And I have not met her in person...The clinic has the process down pat. It is extremely efficient and that is great when you still have a full time job. They are timely with getting your results, and overall very friendly. I honestly cannot think of any weaknesses at this time.
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
She was very helpful in helping us decide how to move forward. We only spoke with her during the planning stages, however. Not during the treatments or between IUIs. But, the staff was so responsive, there wasn't really a need to reach out to her.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Do your own homework and ask all the questions you need.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Nair was very thorough with her explanations and allowed me to ask as many questions as possible. She was warm and easy to talk to, but also made sure I understood the reality of the situation, as I was not getting younger, and we had been trying for several years.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
For my first IUI, we did 50mg Clomid days 3-7, then a blue pill to help with thickening the lining that we started on day 13 and continued until a negative pregnancy test. I also too progesterone the day after the IUI until a negative pregnancy test. For the first IUI, I also did a trigger shot. The second IUI we upped it to 100mg Clomid, no blue pill needed, no trigger needed (surged on my own), and am taking progesterone.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility.
Although I was assigned a nurse, she left the clinic and I wasn't told right away. I was assigned another nurse, and the same thing happened. My current nurse has been helpful, but sometimes take a little too long to answer emails. And I have not met her in person.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
The clinic has the process down pat. It is extremely efficient and that is great when you still have a full time job. They are timely with getting your results, and overall very friendly. I honestly cannot think of any weaknesses at this time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
My insurance did not cover anything, except some of the medications. Each IUI cost $1600 and medication cost somewhere between $140 and $200
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
29 - 30
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Anovulation
10
10
I was fortunate enough to have quick (3 cycles) success so I didn't have a ton of interaction with Dr. Nair. That being said, she personally came down to the clinic and did my ultrasound (without my asking) and answered my questions when one of my cycles wasn't going according to plan. I was impressed with her knowledge and compassion...Laura was an excellent nurse and answered all of my (many) questions throughout the process. She delivered bad news delicately and good news with excitement. She was very encouraging even when a cycle seemed to be going poorly.
Shady Grove is a big practice but the staff tries to get to know everyone and there tends to be some consistency in who you see for your ultrasounds. The wait times are sometimes long but I always felt I was getting first-rate care and attention...Laura was an excellent nurse and answered all of my (many) questions throughout the process. She delivered bad news delicately and good news with excitement. She was very encouraging even when a cycle seemed to be going poorly.
Age
29 - 30
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Ashkenazi Jewish
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Lawyer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Anovulation
10
10
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
I was fortunate enough to have quick (3 cycles) success so I didn't have a ton of interaction with Dr. Nair. That being said, she personally came down to the clinic and did my ultrasound (without my asking) and answered my questions when one of my cycles wasn't going according to plan. I was impressed with her knowledge and compassion.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
The process feels like it takes forever, regardless of how quickly you achieve pregnancy, but trust your doctors and don't be afraid to ask questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Nair, and the nurse that works with her, was always so encouraging and kind. I had a cycle end in a chemical pregnancy during a snow storm and Dr. Nair made a point of calling even though she couldn't make it into the office to see how I was doing and answer my questions.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
Because I wasn't ovulating, at least with any regularity, Dr. Nair started me on 50mg of Clomid with an Ovidrel trigger. Follicle growth was monitored by ultrasound. I stopped responding to 50mg after my first cycle so, after a failed round of 50mg, the dosage was increased to 10mg for the second half of my second cycle and for my third (successful) cycle.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Laura)
Laura was an excellent nurse and answered all of my (many) questions throughout the process. She delivered bad news delicately and good news with excitement. She was very encouraging even when a cycle seemed to be going poorly.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Shady Grove is a big practice but the staff tries to get to know everyone and there tends to be some consistency in who you see for your ultrasounds. The wait times are sometimes long but I always felt I was getting first-rate care and attention.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
I was very fortunate to have insurance coverage for my treatment, lab work, and medications.
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Ask this reviewer a question about their experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
32 - 34
Treated
2014 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
8 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
Without past fertility issues, Dr. Nair recommended starting with natural cycle IUIs. She was very willing to let me determine how aggressive I wanted to be, and when to decide to ratchet it up. She gave me the option to reassess the treatment plan after either 3 or 6 cycles. I originally said 6 cycles but after 5 IUIs I was frustrated and asked to add medication. Dr. Nair was supportive, and recommended a Clomid cycle. When that failed, Dr. Nair suggested an injectable cycle with Clomid, While I was willing to throw in the kitchen sink at that point, Dr. Nair was careful to balance my frustration with a careful consideration of avoiding multiples. I really respected that she wasn't just focused on a positive outcome - she was truly committed to the best outcome *for me* and my situation.
Nursing staff [at Shady Grove Fertility] is wonderful. Their communication by email and phone was very dependable and quick, and weekend nursing support was always available. When there was one clerical mix-up about what blood test I was to have (it wasn't clear whether it was a nursing error or lab error), the nurses took responsibility and figured out a plan to move forward.
Age
32 - 34
Treated
2014 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Lawyer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
8 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
I loved working with Dr. Nair - she is kind, thoughtful, confident in her recommendations and shows that she takes an individual patient's circumstances into account when recommending treatment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Don't be afraid to ask questions - Dr. Nair is wonderful at answering them and explaining her treatment plan.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Nair was clearly invested in my care, as were all of the staff, nurses, and lab technicians. I always felt supported and well cared for. Dr. Nair was so warm and thoughtful in treating me, and her joy at my (eventual!) pregnancy was genuine and quite touching.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
Without past fertility issues, Dr. Nair recommended starting with natural cycle IUIs. She was very willing to let me determine how aggressive I wanted to be, and when to decide to ratchet it up. She gave me the option to reassess the treatment plan after either 3 or 6 cycles. I originally said 6 cycles but after 5 IUIs I was frustrated and asked to add medication. Dr. Nair was supportive, and recommended a Clomid cycle. When that failed, Dr. Nair suggested an injectable cycle with Clomid, While I was willing to throw in the kitchen sink at that point, Dr. Nair was careful to balance my frustration with a careful consideration of avoiding multiples. I really respected that she wasn't just focused on a positive outcome - she was truly committed to the best outcome *for me* and my situation.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Heather)
Nursing staff is wonderful. Their communication by email and phone was very dependable and quick, and weekend nursing support was always available. When there was one clerical mix-up about what blood test I was to have (it wasn't clear whether it was a nursing error or lab error), the nurses took responsibility and figured out a plan to move forward.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
This clinic is the largest one in the DC area. I was a bit wary that it would feel like a factory given its size, but I found the clinic to be very well run, efficient, and caring. The front desk staff and lab technicians quickly came to know me by name, and I always felt like I was in good hands. Although I never made it to IVF, I was impressed by the size and quality of the embryology lab compared to others in the area, and their cutting edge research and adapting protocols.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
My insurance covered the fertility treatments, although my insurance plan changed throughout the treatment. On average, my IUI costs ranged from $200 to $400 per cycle, not including drugs or donor sperm.
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
- Failed to order appropriate test
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
There was one mix-up when the wrong blood test was performed (a beta HCG rather than mid-cycle LH/E2). It was never clear whether this was a nursing error or lab error. In any event, the clinic owned the mistake and offered compensation for the test. It ultimately had no bearing on my cycle.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
35
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
10
10
She [Dr Anitha Nair] never rushed us through explanations and treated us with compassion. She scheduled an extra ultrasound at 9-10 weeks during her limited free time, even though "officially" I was ready to be passed off to my normal OBGYN at that point. That assuaged many of my fears at the time.
People complained to me that the Office [Shady Grove Fertility - K Street] felt like a cattle call during the morning blood draws, but whenever I would go (including first thing in a.m.), I was usually the only one there, or one of maybe 2-3 patients. So I always zipped in and out and had personal attention...Other people seemed to have a much stronger personal relationship communicating daily/directly with their nurses. Mine was more neutral/less responsive.
Age
35
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European, Ashkenazi Jewish
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Lawyer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
10
10
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
She never rushed us through explanations and treated us with compassion. She scheduled an extra ultrasound at 9-10 weeks during her limited free time, even though "officially" I was ready to be passed off to my normal OBGYN at that point. That assuaged many of my fears at the time.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
We were prepared to begin IVF with PGD but became pregnant (again) -- naturally -- just before that cycle would have started. We did one last round of testing based on some new information I had researched relating to the MTHFR genetic mutation. Turned out I had such a mutation and I was put on a prescription folate ASAP (worrisome, because I was already a tiny bit pregnant when I started the folate and didn't know if we had discovered the problem fast enough). I also used progesterone suppositories (as I had under my OBGYN for my prior two miscarriages) during the first trimester. I had weekly ultrasounds and blood work to confirm the advancing pregnancy.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Shady Grove Fertility.
Other people seemed to have a much stronger personal relationship communicating daily/directly with their nurses. Mine was more neutral/less responsive.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
People complained to me that the Office felt like a cattle call during the morning blood draws, but whenever I would go (including first thing in a.m.), I was usually the only one there, or one of maybe 2-3 patients. So I always zipped in and out and had personal attention.
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
- Failed to send your chart to another clinic
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
Timing was unfortunate -- I was scheduled for my HSG during Christmas/New Years when the Office was closed. So I had to go to a different outside Radiological center and SGF failed to send over my paperwork/referral info; my husband had to literally run next door (both offices were on K Street) and hand deliver my paperwork before I could begin my procedure. That was nervewracking and unexpected.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
9
Age
34
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
Other
10
9
Dr. Nair was compassionate and patient with me and my husband. She also made exceptional medical diagnoses, and whenever our path changed, she fully explained her reasoning to me. I felt like she was our partner in this journey, and she truly wanted us to achieve a healthy pregnancy...I kind of felt that all the focus was on getting me pregnant, not on keeping me pregnant. I would recommend patients always do their own research and be their own advocate to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
[Shady Grove - Washington DC's] Strengths - Best front desk staff, great monitoring hours, very organized, very compassionate. Mostly kept appointments on time. Good success statistics, and an ideal result for me. Weaknesses - sometimes ran very late for morning monitoring. So many women doing IVF at the same time! Always saw a different doctor for monitoring appointments -- somewhat stressful, but you get used to it.
Age
34
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
Other
10
9
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Nair was compassionate and patient with me and my husband. She also made exceptional medical diagnoses, and whenever our path changed, she fully explained her reasoning to me. I felt like she was our partner in this journey, and she truly wanted us to achieve a healthy pregnancy.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Be open to things changing as you progress. Trust Dr. Nair and SGF, but ask lots of questions so you still feel like you understand what is going on and why.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
She and all the other doctors at SGF took plenty of time to educate me and my husband and were open and warm at each appointment. I rarely felt rushed, I was always able to ask my questions, and I was always given an honest response with realistic expectations.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
Menupur (started at 75, ended at 225)
Gonal F (started at 150, ended at 225)
6 mornings of Cetrotide .25
HCG trigger 10,000 after 13 days of stimulation
Then endometrin and estrogen after transfer.
11 mature eggs (mostly from lef tovary because right was damaged following previous ectopic surgery).
8 eggs fertilized
2 morula embryos transferred on day 5 -- neither had made it to blastocyst
1 blastocyst to freeze on Day 6
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility.
I had two separate nurses (was transferred halfway through), and both were great, although they seemed very busy. It was wonderful to communicate via email and phone, and they were both very clear with what, if any, changes needed to be made each day. I asked a lot of questions, and sometimes I felt like I was annoying them, but I always got the info I needed in the end.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Strengths - Best front desk staff, great monitoring hours, very organized, very compassionate. Mostly kept appointments on time. Good success statistics, and an ideal result for me.
Weaknesses - sometimes ran very late for morning monitoring. So many women doing IVF at the same time! Always saw a different doctor for monitoring appointments -- somewhat stressful, but you get used to it.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
Insurance covered a nice portion of the cycle and injections for me. My total came out to about $7,500 (including egg freezing).
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
- Failed to order appropriate test
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
After my positive pregnancy tests, Dr. Nair should have ordered thyroid blood work for me, as good levels are critical to maintaining a successful pregnancy. I had to request this, and by that time, my levels were already through the roof. Luckily, I did not miscarry, but I kind of felt that all the focus was on getting me pregnant, not on keeping me pregnant. I would recommend patients always do their own research and be their own advocate to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
7
Age
31 - 34
Treated
2012 - 2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, PCOS, Tubal Blockage
10
7
When I met with Nair, she always spoke honestly but kindly. She clearly had reviewed my records before our meetings so we didn't need to explain things again. She always called after a failed cycle and was incredibly kind after a chemical pregnancy/missed carriage. She also left surgery to come down for our first ultrasound after our positive pregnancy test.
My nurse forgot to provide the trigger shot which resulted in less eggs retrieved. I still had plenty but was quite stressful... Shady Grove has multiple clinics in the DC metro area. Testing is very process driven, which I appreciated. I knew exactly what and when things were going to happen and I simply followed that process. Some folks might not appreciate being another cog in the fertility factory but I found it comforting...
Age
31 - 34
Treated
2012 - 2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, PCOS, Tubal Blockage
10
7
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
I didn't find anything at fault with Nair. She always made sure we had appropriate information and we never left the office without either speaking with a financial person or nurse to answer any additional questions.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
None.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
When I met with Nair, she always spoke honestly but kindly. She clearly had reviewed my records before our meetings so we didn't need to explain things again. She always called after a failed cycle and was incredibly kind after a chemical pregnancy/missed carriage. She also left surgery to come down for our first ultrasound after our positive pregnancy test.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
We did 3 IUI's even though they didn't work. It was frustrating but our insurance required it.
The clinic was participating in a medical study that required less injections but we did not participate, though the early results seemed promising.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Heather Glass)
I had several primary nurses during my tenure at Shady Grove; some were better than others. I had one, who is no longer there, who did not like to communicate over email. Giving my busy schedule, email was much better than phone. My suggestion would be to establish which method you prefered communication when first meeting with your nurse coordinator.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Shady Grove has multiple clinics in the DC metro area. Testing is very process driven, which I appreciated. I knew exactly what and when things were going to happen and I simply followed that process. Some folks might not appreciate being another cog in the fertility factory but I found it comforting; this is all very normal, well managed, and well understood.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
My IUI and egg retrieval were covered by insurance. My FET's were not. Shady Grove has self-pay costs. Each FET was approximately $4000 plus cost of medications.
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
- Lost paperwork
- Failed to call with results
- Failed to send your chart to another clinic
- Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
- Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
1 - My nurse forgot to provide the trigger shot which resulted in less eggs retrieved. I still had plenty but was quite stressful.
2 - There was an active shooter near a clinic on a day I was scheduled for blood work and ultrasound. This resulted in the clinic closing. No information was provided to patients; the voicemail at the clinic was not even updated. I was not informed of what I needed to do until noon that day, which is after the clinics stop monitoring. I spoke to someone at the head office about lack of emergency preparedness and was not provided a satisfactory answer. For example, all retrievals and transfers are done in the Rockville office and I asked for plans if that office is closed. The response was simply, " we would never close that office."
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Ask this reviewer a question about their experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
10
10
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
10
10
after hearing about the new research from Dr. Nair we agreed that single transfer was safer...She was warm and understanding and she spoke to us frankly with respect...She was amazingly compassionate and thorough. She explained everything to us in a respectful manner and remained kind and realistic while explaining procedures and risks. We never needed to see her between appointments so I can’t speak to how responsive she is but she was always a delight to work with and her attitude and outlook was contagious.
Shady Grove only does single embryo transfer...The weaknesses are how busy it can be in the mornings for blood draws and exams but they are quick and understand everyone is busy. Bring something to do and be patient. Be kind to the staff because you will see them every morning for a long time and you get to know them...The nursing staff is organized, efficient, and compassionate...Started with clomid to induce ovulation with timed intercourse, that lasted for one cycle before we decided to move on to IUI with clomid. She gave us the option of starting with IUI or IVF and we chose IUI. Ultimately the decision was up to us and she adjusted based on our preferences.
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European, Ashkenazi Jewish, Native American
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
She was amazingly compassionate and thorough. She explained everything to us in a respectful manner and remained kind and realistic while explaining procedures and risks. We never needed to see her between appointments so I can’t speak to how responsive she is but she was always a delight to work with and her attitude and outlook was contagious.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Ask questions and trust her.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
She was warm and understanding and she spoke to us frankly with respect.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
Started with clomid to induce ovulation with timed intercourse, that lasted for one cycle before we decided to move on to IUI with clomid. She gave us the option of starting with IUI or IVF and we chose IUI. Ultimately the decision was up to us and she adjusted based on our preferences.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility.
The nursing staff is organized, efficient, and compassionate.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
The weaknesses are how busy it can be in the mornings for blood draws and exams but they are quick and understand everyone is busy. Bring something to do and be patient. Be kind to the staff because you will see them every morning for a long time and you get to know them.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
Copays mostly with $100 bill overall. My treatment was covered by my employer’s insurance.
Describe Anitha Nair's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
Shady Grove only does single embryo transfer and after hearing about the new research from Dr. Nair we agreed that single transfer was safer.
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Ask this reviewer a question about their experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
4
7
Age
38
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
1 IUI, IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Poor Egg Quality
4
7
She [Dr. Anitha Nair] was indifferent about my options. She present the risk of each procedure but didn't' seem to have a strong opinion on what option would get me my baby. She would do whatever I wanted which is great to a point.... She is nice and all but she doesn't seem to out of the box to try something new or give you an example of what worked for her other patients that might work for your situation. Do your homework and come with questions.
The clinic [Shady Grove-Arlington] is nice, clean, and equipment is new. The facility is nice, I don't have any issues with scheduling an appointment. I like how the clinic is near a metro which was great because it was on my way to work.... Overall the nurses were attentive and nice.... After my IVF fail, I realized I wasn't on the most aggressive protocol which I thought she would put me on after my failed medicated IUI. Again, you are your own advocated.
Age
38
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
South Asian
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Marketer or PR
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 IUI, IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Poor Egg Quality
4
7
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
She indifferent about my options. She present the risk of each procedure but didn't' seem to have a strong opinion on what option would get me my baby. She would do whatever I wanted which is great to a point.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Just proceed with caution. She is nice and all but she doesn't seem to out of the box to try something new or give you an example of what worked for her other patients that might work for your situation. Do your homework and come with questions..
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
She was indifferent. She seems compassionate but I didn't believe it.
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
After my IVF fail, I realized I wasn't on the most aggressive protocol which I thought she would put me on after my failed medicated IUI. Again, you are your own advocated.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility.
Overall the nurses were attentive and nice.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
The clinic is nice, clean, and equipment is new. The facility is nice, I don't have any issues with scheduling an appointment. I like how the clinic is near a metro which was great because it was on my way to work.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
Everything had a cost to it... so expect at that.
Describe Anitha Nair's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
My main doctor only wanted to transfer 2 but the actually doctor doing the transfer did 3 which I agreed to since they quality fo the embryos weren't great If I didn't transfer the third one , it would most likely died.
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Ask this reviewer a question about their experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
7
7
Age
44 - 48
Treated
2013 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
9 IUI, 3 IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Poor Egg Quality
7
7
She [Dr. Nair] is sweet and honest. She was pregnant/on leave when I had issues with fibroids and so it was very hard... Anyway once dr Nair was back from leave - she handled it well with me and we went on to have a good relationship...When I dealt with her , [I was treated like] a human....Make sure all your tests are up to date. Advocate for yourself, same as with any doctor....You really have to keep track of your own care, or no one else will.....
[Shady Grove - DC K St] Strength- the LAB weakness- it can feel like a factory at times or a Big Business. You really have to keep track of your own care, or no one else will....[nurses] kept switching - but timely results...I had to deal with other docs and they did not seem to be on th same page. I had just spent thousands on IVF and THEN they discovered a Fibroid and said "nothing would implant with that in there." After 3 failed cycles.....apparently no one realized my uterine tests were not up to date.
Age
44 - 48
Treated
2013 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
9 IUI, 3 IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Poor Egg Quality
7
7
How was your experience with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
She is sweet and honest. She was pregnant/on leave when I had issues with fibroids and so it was very hard: I had to deal with other docs and they did not seem to be on th same page. I had just spent thousands on IVF and THEN they discovered a Fibroid and said "nothing would implant with that in there." After 3 failed cycles.....apparently no one realized my uterine tests were not up to date. Anyway once dr Nair was back from leave - she handled it well with me and we went on to have a good relationship.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
Make sure all your tests are up to date. Advocate for yourself, same as with any doctor.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility?
When I dealt with her , a human. The clinic, a number
Describe the protocols Anitha Nair used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
Hi dose protocol
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility.
They kept switching - but timely results .
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Strength- the LAB
weakness- it can feel like a factory at times or a Big Business. You really have to keep track of your own care, or no one else will.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anitha Nair at Shady Grove Fertility.
More than 60k
Describe Anitha Nair's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
Excellent advice
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
- Failed to order appropriate test
- Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
See previous statement
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