Sahar Stephens
Northern California Fertility Medical Center
Available Lines of Communication
Doctor email
Nurse email
Nurse email
Direct line to doctor
Direct line to nurse
Direct line to nurse
Not available by personal cell phone
Medical SchoolWash U. St. Louis
ResidencyWash U. St. Louis
FellowshipU of Colorado Denver
Roseville (closed)
1130 Conroy Lane
Roseville, CA 95661
916-773-5529
44 assessments
2
7
Age
32
Treated
2020
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Tubal Blockage, Uterine Fibroids
2
7
Saw [Dr. Sahar Stephens] for initial consult and she was very nice and reassuring but and have not seen or been in direct contact since- I get updates from the nurses no calls or updates from the doctor herself...Gave us brief insight into what course of action she would like to take to try and conceive...It would be nice to get a phone call when my care plan is altered rather than having a nurse talk to me about it. I know it’s coming from the doctor and they are busy but it’s a little unnerving not being able to be in direct contact with the doctor.
If you are wanting a doctor that’s your primary contact of care, this clinic [Northern California Fertility Medical Center] wouldn’t be for you. Most of the doctors share responsibility it seems. I’ve seen all 4 so far...First cycle was medication 50 mg clomid, estrace, trigger shot, then IUI. I did not respond to clomid (no multiple dominant follicles). Failed IUI. Second cycle was medication 150 mg clomid, estrace, trigger, 2 consecutive day IUIs. No multiple follicles, negative IUI. Next phase will be injectable gonal F and IUI, vaginal suppositories. Awaiting stay at home Orders to be over before starting new cycle.
Age
32
Treated
2020
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Tubal Blockage, Uterine Fibroids
2
7
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She was knowledgeable and kind during initial consult. Gave us brief insight into what course of action she would like to take to try and conceive. But after initial consult there has been little contact with her directly. It would be nice to get a phone call when my care plan is altered rather than having a nurse talk to me about it. I know it’s coming from the doctor and they are busy but it’s a little unnerving not being able to be in direct contact with the doctor.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
If you are wanting a doctor that’s your primary contact of care, this clinic wouldn’t be for you. Most of the doctors share responsibility it seems. I’ve seen all 4 so far.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Saw for initial consult and she was very nice and reassuring but and have not seen or been in direct contact since- I get updates from the nurses no calls or updates from the doctor herself.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
First cycle was medication 50 mg clomid, estrace, trigger shot, then IUI. I did not respond to clomid (no multiple dominant follicles). Failed IUI. Second cycle was medication 150 mg clomid, estrace, trigger, 2 consecutive day IUIs. No multiple follicles, negative IUI. Next phase will be injectable gonal F and IUI, vaginal suppositories. Awaiting stay at home
Orders to be over before starting new cycle.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Very communicative and prompt.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Nurses communicate well the plan of care. Office staff and doctors were all kind and had good bedside manner. Weakness: lack of direct doctor /patient relationship. It’s more a team effort- nurses relay everything to patient.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
All cost was out of pocket. Our insurance wasn’t accepted.
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
No
What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
- Lost paperwork
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Nothing went wrong.
- Read less
Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
8
8
Age
40 - 41
Treated
2019 - 2020
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
5 IUI, 2 IVF, 1 Embryo Freezing, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Poor Egg Quality
8
8
Dr. Stephens is very straight-forward, which we appreciate. Whenever we met with her (whether in-person, or phone consult), she would go over our charts and review current standings...She would answer without prejudice and with her honest opinion. She was intelligent and non-judgmental, which made it easier to ask questions about alternative treatment or wellness options. My only concern would be, I don't know if she was talking about only-her experience, or all of the experience from the clinic. There are several doctors and quite a number of patients, I would prefer to know that they collectively reviewed charts (since you see all the Doctors, eventually, anyway) and that your primary Dr gave you recommendations based off of their collective experience & input. Typically, more knowledge and more experience would get you better treatment, theoretically.
She [nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center] was extremely patient while teaching the dosage and how to best give injections. You'll always get her voicemail, if you call the clinic, but she answers/returns phone calls and e-mails in the same day...For the clinic, the meds, consultations, etc.; the IUI rounds were about $3,000 each and the IVF (extraction-only) were about $15,000 each...You'll rarely see your personal Dr (although they are available via e-mail) and scheduling appointments with your personal Doctor is 3-4 weeks out. Good to know: NCFMC has several Doctors on staff, who have their own patients and they have a "duty" type of schedule. So they rotate, when they see their personal patients, when they are in the exam room, when they have to work the
Age
40 - 41
Treated
2019 - 2020
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European, East Asian
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
5 IUI, 2 IVF, 1 Embryo Freezing, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Poor Egg Quality
8
8
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
What I appreciated most about Dr. Stephens was the ability to talk candidly with her, about our predicament, what I've researched versus what she's worked with (or seen work). She would answer without prejudice and with her honest opinion. She was intelligent and non-judgmental, which made it easier to ask questions about alternative treatment or wellness options. My only concern would be, I don't know if she was talking about only-her experience, or all of the experience from the clinic. There are several doctors and quite a number of patients, I would prefer to know that they collectively reviewed charts (since you see all the Doctors, eventually, anyway) and that your primary Dr gave you recommendations based off of their collective experience & input. Typically, more knowledge and more experience would get you better treatment, theoretically.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Don't be afraid to be inquisitive, ask questions, and understand your case. Dr Stephens is nice and will take the time to answer your questions, but she's also not going to try to inundate you with information you may not understand or care about. She will tell you about your situation and give you her recommendations, then leave space for you to talk and ask questions. Also, be prepared to see other Doctors during your clinic appointments, you're only guaranteed to see Dr Stephens during your one-on-one appointments with her.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens is very straight-forward, which we appreciate. Whenever we met with her (whether in-person, or phone consult), she would go over our charts and review current standings. We always had a list of questions regarding our status, her experience and expectations from similar cases, possible options, and personnel + professional opinions. She answered all of our questions, remaining realistic and positive, without being overly optimistic. She would also discuss her recommended treatments and ensured we understood and were okay proceeding with her ideas, or if we wanted to something else.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
With a history of on-going birth control (Depo Provera or IUD), no past pregnancy, no other underlying issues (other than age >35) on the female side, proceeded with IUI using donor sperm. Started treatment with Clomid, with the first three IUIs varying from 2 follicles to 4 follicles. Upped the medication on rounds 4-6 to include Gonal-F, which increased the follicle count to 3-6 follicles on various attempts. Still no resulting pregnancy.
When we started IVF, I was put on birth control pills to "regulate" the period, as well as Gonal-F, Ganirelix, and Menopur. This had less than stellar results, which was four follicles, four eggs, three possible embryos, but none were viable that lasted past day 5. The next round of IVF the medication eliminated the b/c pills, added estrogen patches, and increased the Gonal-F daily dosage amount. Ganirelix and Menopur dosage remained the same. This was exponentially better, resulting in nine follicles, 14 eggs, seven embryos, 2 possible embryos (were good as of day 5), but returned from the genetics lab as known defective.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Courtney)
Courtney was fantastic! She was extremely patient while teaching the dosage and how to best give injections. You'll always get her voicemail, if you call the clinic, but she answers/returns phone calls and e-mails in the same day. She'll work extra hard with the pharmacy to get the medication you need, when you need it, and if you need an extra prescription/authorization written to get approval from the insurance, she'll work with them too. SHE will be your best friend, confidante, and mentor while using NFCMC.
For the rest of the Nursing staff, they're nice & polite. The moment after you remember you need to empty your bladder before the ultrasound, and use the restroom in the lobby, is when they'll finally call your name. Every.time.
Some of the phlebotomist are better than others, you'll either leave the chair with a smile, laugh, or a bruise.
Overall, they've got a very good routine and you'll rarely wait more than 10 minutes in the lobby for your appointment. (Which is great when you're trying to fit your appointments in during your lunch break.)
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Strengths: The office staff have a smooth routine down in the office, friendliness of the staff, tons of experience from several doctors and lots of patients, you'll get to know all of the doctors at NCFMC (they're all personable, so you can ask them questions after/ during your exam).
Weaknesses: the exam rooms are rather tight, so there's not a lot of room for your personal items or your partner. They recently moved their Roseville office into Sacramento. You'll rarely see your personal Dr (although they are available via e-mail) and scheduling appointments with your personal Doctor is 3-4 weeks out.
Good to know: NCFMC has several Doctors on staff, who have their own patients and they have a "duty" type of schedule. So they rotate, when they see their personal patients, when they are in the exam room, when they have to work the weekends/ holidays, etc. As such, you'll get to know all/most of the Doctors at NCFMC during the ultrasound visits. However, You won't see your assigned Doctor unless you schedule a one-on-one appointment, or its your lucky day when they're the one to walk into your exam room.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
The clinic cost were not covered by our insurance, but some of the medications were. For the clinic, the meds, consultations, etc.; the IUI rounds were about $3,000 each and the IVF (extraction-only) were about $15,000 each.
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
N/A - did not have embryos to transfer. :-(
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10
10
Age
38
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
5 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
Dr. Stephens is my primary doctor, which I am glad to see her in consultations and if I need to talk to her on the phone. I think she is the best. I really like her overall demeanor and the ways she explains things. ... Dr. Stephens has a calm and caring personality. She is good at explaining things and listing the options and pros and cons and helping guide you to the right decisions ... she did say if I had to do it again I may need more medications next time, which was true and now with better results this time around.
Clinic [Northern California Fertility Med Ctr] is great- the whole staff has been really nice. ... One thing I wish they took was Care Credit ... My nurse Courtney and all the others have been great ... Also I work in Sacramento and clinic is in Roseville, so sometimes harder to get to appts during work hours because it is a 30 min drive there and then back. ... The only bummer is when you go to appts you see different doctors each time
Age
38
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
5 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens is my primary doctor, which I am glad to see her in consultations and if I need to talk to her on the phone. I think she is the best. I really like her overall demeanor and the ways she explains things. The only bummer is when you go to appts you see different doctors each time, just luck of the draw if you get her or someone else once you actually start treatments and go to appts based on your cycle.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She is great.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens has a calm and caring personality. She is good at explaining things and listing the options and pros and cons and helping guide you to the right decisions
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
My husband and I started out slowly doing 5 IUI over a 2 year period, they recommend only 3 before moving on to IVF but supported my decision to do more. I took my awhile to warm up to idea of doing IVF and did first cycle in May of 2018. I only got 7 eggs retrieved and 1 made it to day 5 freezing, we transferred the 1 egg and didn't work out. Right now in the middles of round 2 and so far got 13 eggs retrieved, 3 made it to day 5 freeze and waiting on PGS test results to come back in next week or two. I am bummed the the first round didn't work out, but happy the second round is so far going better and hopeful for a successful pregnancy with one of those 3 frozen eggs. On the first round, my I didn't have as many follicles and they would have liked and did up my meds during the cycle but she did say if I had to do it again I may need more medications next time, which was true and now with better results this time around.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Courtney)
My nurse Courtney and all the others have been great
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Clinic is great- the whole staff has been really nice. One thing I wish they took was Care Credit, we had that credit card for an emergency pet surgery and has low interest for paying back and would have been great if they accepted it there. Also I work in Sacramento and clinic is in Roseville, so sometimes harder to get to appts during work hours because it is a 30 min drive there and then back.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
IUI were around 500 each, with some insurance coverage and then first IVF around 5,000 with insurance coverage. Insurance had a lifetime max that I hit with first IVF so now second IVF out of pocket and going to cost around 25,000 total with ICSI, PGS and 1 FET
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I only ever wanted to do single transfers so didn't get into the approach of doing multiple.
- Read less
Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
30
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
Dr Stephens gave us hope after two other doctors had given us discouragement. The diagnosis of unexplained infertility can be very discouraging but she showed us multiple treatment plans and gave us hope.... My husband and I felt like Dr Stephen was very patient and listened to our questions and concerns. She even took the time to explain results from a prior surgery i had had with another surgeon.... We started with a letrozole IUI cycle. We decided to start at the least invasive treatment and then work our way up.
The clinic [NoCa Fert Med Ctr] is always very clean and well kept. They are experts at what they do! From the time I called to schedule our initial consultation I knew I had made the right decision. They were quick to get me on the schedule the receptionist was very professional and able to answer all my questions. This made me feel very comfortable right from the start. The financial coordinators really know what they are doing and are able to quickly discuss coverage with you.
Age
30
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr Stephens gave us hope after two other doctors had given us discouragement. The diagnosis of unexplained infertility can be very discouraging but she showed us multiple treatment plans and gave us hope.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She take the time to listen unlike most doctors who are watching the clock.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
My husband and I felt like Dr Stephen was very patient and listened to our questions and concerns. She even took the time to explain results from a prior surgery i had had with another surgeon.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
We started with a letrozole IUI cycle. We decided to start at the least invasive treatment and then work our way up. This was what was recommended by Dr Stephens and was the best choice for my husband and I.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nursing staff is always very professional and compassionate. They always take the time to answer questions and make you feel important.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
The clinic is always very clean and well kept. They are experts at what they do! From the time I called to schedule our initial consultation I knew I had made the right decision. They were quick to get me on the schedule the receptionist was very professional and able to answer all my questions. This made me feel very comfortable right from the start. The financial coordinators really know what they are doing and are able to quickly discuss coverage with you. All of the staff are extremely knowledgeable in their profession and make you feel very comfortable. You know your in great hands at the Roseville Norhtern California Fertility Clinic.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
We did a letrozole IUI cycle and are now beginning our journey with IVF. So far with IUI we have spent approx $1500 on one cylce.
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
We are just beginning our journey into IVF after and unsuccessful IUI.
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10
10
Age
36 - 37
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Unexplained
10
10
Dr. Stephens is friendly, honest, trustworthy. She explains the process and procedures in terms I understand. She genuinely wants the best for her patients. She cares about her patients and does all she can to provide the best care while hoping to achieve the best outcome.... We have unexplained infertility so we started with IUI using clomid. My first round didn’t produce as many follicles as she had hoped for so the second IUI she increased my medication. After the second failed IUI, she gave me the option of doing surgery to see if there was anything else going on inside that we were unaware of.
I honestly can’t think of a weakness at this time. They are a very busy clinic [Nor CA Fert Med Ctr] but I never feel rushed. My questions are always answered and I never have to wait long. Sometimes I wish I could see Dr. Stephens a little more regularly, but I have come to know all of the other doctors and they are all just as friendly. I feel comfortable with them all, and they come into my examination room knowing where I’m at in the process and up to date. They all work very well as a team, the doctors, nurses, and staff.
Age
36 - 37
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Latino
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens is friendly, honest, trustworthy. She explains the process and procedures in terms I understand. She genuinely wants the best for her patients. She cares about her patients and does all she can to provide the best care while hoping to achieve the best outcome.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
I’d tell them they are in good hands.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens is a great doctor. I’m so happy we found her and the NCFMC facility. She’s always been upfront and honest and showed sympathy and understanding at all times. She explains the procedures and process in terms we can understand and feel comfortable with her.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
We have unexplained infertility so we started with IUI using clomid. My first round didn’t produce as many follicles as she had hoped for so the second IUI she increased my medication. After the second failed IUI, she gave me the option of doing surgery to see if there was anything else going on inside that we were unaware of. I elected for surgery. She found slight endometriosis and a cyst. Those were removed and we tried for a third IUI. The third failed. She informed me I could try for a 4th IUI or go on to IVF. WE elected for IVF at that point. The first round of IVF did not produce as many eggs as we had hoped for. We had 11 in total. My right side didn’t respond as well as she hoped and the two embryos we had remaining Cake back abnormal. We are in the process of our second IVF. This round she has increased my meds in hopes of retrieving more eggs.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Jamie Fife)
My Nurse Jamie is great. She explains everything well, returns my calls when I have a question, gives me outlines of dates and medications and instructions. All of the staff at NCFMC is very helpful and friendly.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I honestly can’t think of a weakness at this time. They are a very busy clinic but I never feel rushed. My questions are always answered and I never have to wait long. Sometimes I wish I could see Dr. Stephens a little more regularly, but I have come to know all of the other doctors and they are all just as friendly. I feel comfortable with them all, and they come into my examination room knowing where I’m at in the process and up to date. They all work very well as a team, the doctors, nurses, and staff.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I believe the average cost for the IUI process was about $1,100. For IVF, our first round was about 18k-20k. That included all of our appointments, ultrasounds, egg retrieval, genetic testing, and ICSI.
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10
10
Age
37 - 41
Treated
2014 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
5 IUI, 4 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
Dr Stephens was always available to answer all questions and concerns I had. She was compassionate during difficult times.... She was available for questions regarding my cycles. I would have preferred to see her more often than other Drs in the clinic, but all doctors kept great notes so there was a good continuity of care. Each time I met with a doctor, they knew what was going on.... Ask questions, and ask to see her as much as possible.
Everyone you encounter in the office [Northern California Fertility Medical Ctr] - receptionist, finance people, nurses, drs, assistants, etc - all are very friendly and take a genuine interest in you.... Once, I had to call the clinic for results a day later than promised (when they were supposed to call me). They were surprised I didn't receive a call and apologetic. They gave me my results shortly after my call.... The nurses were not as fluid as the drs were when assisting patients that were not "assigned" to them
Age
37 - 41
Treated
2014 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
5 IUI, 4 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She was available for questions regarding my cycles. I would have preferred to see her more often than other Drs in the clinic, but all doctors kept great notes so there was a good continuity of care. Each time I met with a doctor, they knew what was going on.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Ask questions, and ask to see her as much as possible.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr Stephens was always available to answer all questions and concerns I had. She was compassionate during difficult times.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Courtney)
Courtney was able to communicate without through email (my preferred method). This allowed almost all of our conversations to be documented and easy for me to refer back to. She was patient and throuough. Courtney's work days varied, so there would be times where she was not in the office - these times I would see a substitute nurse. The substitute nurse was not always familiar with my case, and I often had to remind them of my treatments. The nurses were not as fluid as the drs were when assisting patients that were not "assigned" to them
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I am fortunate that I have a very flexible schedule, so I can make appointment times work. I can see others having a more challenging time with scheduling if they have a more rigid schedule. Everyone you encounter in the office - receptionist, finance people, nurses, drs, assistants, etc - all are very friendly and take a genuine interest in you.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
We were fortunate that we have insurance to cover a portion of our procedures. Over the last 4 years we have spent approximately $100,000 meds, procedures, etc.
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
My embryos were all pgs tested, so we only transferred one at a time. Since I didn't have many "normal" embryos, I was OK with doing a single transfer - it gave me more opportunities for fet and to try to get pregnant
What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
- Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Once, I had to call the clinic for results a day later than promised (when they were supposed to call me). They were surprised I didn't receive a call and apologetic. They gave me my results shortly after my call.
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5
2
Age
38 - 39
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Male Factor
5
2
I thought she [Dr. Stephens] was very nice. I wish i was able to see her more often and she was a bigger part of my journey. We had very little interaction... she was technically my dr but didn't do any of my iui"s and i only saw her twice in the five month span... We started the first two rounds with a moderate dose of clomid. Unfortunately it didn't affect my body the way it was supposed to so i did another round of clomid before both of my iuis.
Each iui was about $1200 with my insurance covering a little of the dr visits.....the clinic [Northern CA Fertility Med Ctr] is always clean in the waiting room. i think that they need to work on cleanliness in the back too. I have been in for a lot of ultra sounds and the first two times i was there i got something wet on my feet at the bottom of the table.... my prescriptions were not sent in twice and my iui was canceled without any explanation...
Age
38 - 39
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Male Factor
5
2
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
I thought she was very nice. I wish i was able to see her more often and she was a bigger part of my journey. We had very little interaction and i felt very awkward with her when i cried on one visit. I think we were unable to have a connection because of the lack of time between us.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Make sure to ask for her for every visit.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens was very nice but i hated that she was technically my dr but didn't do any of my iui"s and i only saw her twice in the five month span only because i asked for an extra appointment with her. My unhappiness with my experience is mostly with ncfmc not Dr. Stephens.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
We started the first two rounds with a moderate dose of clomid. Unfortunately it didn't affect my body the way it was supposed to so i did another round of clomid before both of my iuis. The third time they doubled the dose of clomid and we tried to see if that made a difference, it did not. My iui was canceled and i went in the next month for a baseline ultrasound. During that visit i was told that i had a cyst on my ovaries and needed to go on birth control for a month. I did that and went back in for another ultrasound. The cyst cleared up and i was able to start injections. The injections worked and we did one more iui that was also unsuccessful.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
i was very disappointed in the call back time and how prepared she was for our conversation. i thought it was very cold and that wasnt what i was looking for when coming to a fertility clinic. I too cried in front of my nurse and felt a awkward period where she looked uncomfortable about it.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
the clinic is always clean in the waiting room. i think that they need to work on cleanliness in the back too. I have been in for a lot of ultra sounds and the first two times i was there i got something wet on my feet at the bottom of the table. The third time there was a puddle of lube at the end of the table. i am displeased with the call backs too. There have been multiple times when i call and do not hear back within two days.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Each iui was about $1200 with my insurance covering a little of the dr visits.
What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
- Failed to call with results
- Failed to order appropriate test
- Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
- Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
my prescriptions were not sent in twice and my iui was canceled without any explanation except that the medicine didn't work so you should talk to your dr and see where to go from here. He then left the room. Results were also given incorrectly and they had to call and tell us after we left that they read them wrong.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
36 - 37
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
10
10
With Dr. Stephens we were not having a discussion on clinical facts, instead we sat down had a very personable conversation while discussing options and facts. She took all the anxiety away and allowed my husband and I to walk away with hopes for a reality of having a baby while managing expectations...We opted to go with PGS due to our ages (Husband 44, I am 37) and after additional discussion with Dr. Stephens looking at all possible pros and cons we chose genetic testing and single embryo transfers for highest percentage of results.
I really liked how they [No Cal Fert Med Ctr] have very specialized professionals to discuss all needs regarding your care and if they don't know the answer they are not afraid to say they don't know, will find out and do call you with the findings....the nursing staff is amazing, super nice and caring. They also are available to answer any and all questions you might have... Dr. Stephens and all the doctors are open and willing to answer every and all questions.
Age
36 - 37
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens and Dr. Murray are the primary providers overseeing my treatments and both are AMAZING. I have felt very comfortable with both and they have walked me through every step along with answering every question I have. I could not have asked for better physicians during this process.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Relax! Do your research as to better educate yourself about fertility procedures which makes for a better patient, but don't assume you know anything and don't be afraid to ask any questions. Dr. Stephens and all the doctors are open and willing to answer every and all questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Our first visit was one filled with anxiety, you already know you cannot conceive on your own and now you are trying to find out if IVF can be a solution. With Dr. Stephens we were not having a discussion on clinical facts, instead we sat down had a very personable conversation while discussing options and facts. She took all the anxiety away and allowed my husband and I to walk away with hopes for a reality of having a baby while managing expectations.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
Antagonist IVF Cycle all freeze due to PGS - 225 iu Gonal-f for 10 days, 75 iu Menopur for 10 days, Cetrotide 5 days, Ovidrel 10,000. ICSI, PGS.
We have male factor infertility and undefined cause for myself. We opted to go with PGS due to our ages (Husband 44, I am 37) and after additional discussion with Dr. Stephens looking at all possible pros and cons we chose genetic testing and single embryo transfers for highest percentage of results.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Dottie )
the nursing staff is amazing, super nice and caring. They also are available to answer any and all questions you might have.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I really liked how they have very specialized professionals to discuss all needs regarding your care and if they don't know the answer they are not afraid to say they don't know, will find out and do call you with the findings.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I am fortunate and my insurance did cover 50% of IVF treatment, and because we did a frozen transfer due to PGS, the office gave us 50% off the 1st FET. Total out of pocket so far is $14,490.75. Our upcoming 2nd FET will cost $3,900.00
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Since we did PGS it is highly recommended to only transfer one embryo, however, I also wanted the safest possible outcome for myself and our potential baby so I only wanted to do single embryo transfers.
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10
10
Age
25 - 29
Treated
2014 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
IVF, 1 Embryo Freezing (cancer)
Diagnosis
Cancer, Other
10
10
Each time we see Dr. Stephens, she is very personable and gives us her full attention. She makes a point of getting to know our situation and creating an open discussion of options.... With my situation, there has been a lot of “hurry up and wait” and “wait and see” time periods. Each time we see Dr. Sahar she is patient with all of our questions, and understanding and receptive of our thoughts and/or concerns. She is upfront and honest about our options and the pros/cons to each treatment.
All of the nurses [at N. CA Fertility Medical Center] I’ve interacted with have been kind and caring. They especially took EXCELLENT care of me on the day of my egg retrieval - before, during and after....Of course I wish fertility treatments were more affordable but they do their best to work with you. They are transparent about their services and pricing. There’s no pressure, they provide your treatment options, the success rates, the pros and cons, and they let you decide on the treatment you feel comfortable with.
Age
25 - 29
Treated
2014 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IVF, 1 Embryo Freezing (cancer)
Diagnosis
Cancer, Other
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
With my situation, there has been a lot of “hurry up and wait” and “wait and see” time periods. Each time we see Dr. Sahar she is patient with all of our questions, and understanding and receptive of our thoughts and/or concerns. She is upfront and honest about our options and the pros/cons to each treatment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Each time we see Dr. Stephens, she is very personable and gives us her full attention. She makes a point of getting to know our situation and creating an open discussion of options.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Sue)
All of the nurses I’ve interacted with have been kind and caring. They especially took EXCELLENT care of me on the day of my egg retrieval - before, during and after.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
No complaints here. My experience has been great each time. Of course I wish fertility treatments were more affordable but they do their best to work with you. They are transparent about their services and pricing. There’s no pressure, they provide your treatment options, the success rates, the pros and cons, and they let you decide on the treatment you feel comfortable with.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
The egg retrieval was around $10,000, each embryo transfer can be up to $5,000 and each IUI cycle can be up to $2,000.
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Dr. Stephens has explicitly stated that she will only do eSET due to the young age of my eggs upon retrieval. I totally understand the reasoning and approach, although, I am of the mind that it would be beneficial financially to increase the chances of a successful transfer with multiple embryo transfer.
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6
5
Age
36
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
5 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor
6
5
Very compassionate doctor... I was happy with her [Dr. Stephens] as an informative doctor just disappointed in the outcome... it would be nice to see more of the doctor who is handling your specific case....Hormone levels where very high through my injection process resulting in not being able to be given the proper dose of hcg which could have effected the eggg quality and possibly why so many did not get to blast. Ended up switching from a fresh transfer to a freeze all because of high hormone levels.
Their [No Cal Fert Med Ctr] front desk in the past has always felt very cold and business like, but they have recently got new front deak employees who are much more pleasant and welcoming. Sometimes in general you feel like a body just being pushed through the line based on you see so many different doctors while going theough the iui and ivf process....Some of the sperm count numbers would come back different on the day of iui in comparison to what it said on the patient portal. Maybe it was lack of communication in interpreting those results but sometimes we were left comfused as to what the actual count was
Age
36
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
5 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor
6
5
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Very compassionate doctor. Since she was the only one i went through for our ivf i can not really compare how good or bad she was because i have nothing as far as other doctors to compare her to. I was happy with her as an informative doctor just disappointed in the outcome
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Go over all different sinerios that could arise while going theough hormone injections
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She was very nurtouring when talking and i felt that she was very real with the process.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
Tried 2 iui’s with clomid, forst was very low dose, second was a normal dose from talking to orher wmen. Both iui’s unsuccessful. Then moved on to ivf. Hormone levels where very high through my injection process resulting in not being able to be given the proper dose of hcg which could have effected the eggg quality and possibly why so many did not get to blast. Ended up switching from a fresh transfer to a freeze all because of high hormone levels. Tranfered two eggs both in which neither of them took.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Courtney Swanson)
My nurse coordinator was grat. She always resoonded very quickly to my questions both through phone and email, and i felt very comfortable with her
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Their front desk in the past has always felt very cold and business like, but they have recently got new front deak employees who are much more pleasant and welcoming. Sometimes in general you feel like a body just being pushed through the line based on you see so many different doctors while going theough the iui and ivf process. I understand the time urgency with these procedures bit it would be nice to see more of the doctor who is handling your specific case.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Insurance covered 50% of iui’s so we paid about 1,000 for two consecutive iuis. Ivf was around 12,000 for egg retrieval and transfer plus an additional 800 for having to change to a freeze all. None of the hormones where covered and that was an additional 4,000
What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
- Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Some of the sperm count numbers would come back different on the day of iui in comparison to what it said on the patient portal. Maybe it was lack of communication in interpreting those results but sometimes we were left comfused as to what the actual count was
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7
8
Age
38
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
7
8
Dr. Stephens has been cheerful, optimistic, realistic, and helpful. We were all hoping to see a positive result last round but she readjusted my meds and we are continue to "trouble shoot"...Dr. Stevens and the entire team at Norther California Medical Fertility Clinic has been helpful, positive, and generally reassuring.... All in all, I feel pretty comfortable with her...I would advise potential patients to get a clear picture of the treatment schedule and the financial plan.
Joann is my current nurse coordinator [at Northern CA Med] but she is newly assigned to me. I have had several coordinators in the 5 months we've been at the clinic. My current nurse coordinator has been very communicative and helpful...Overwhelmingly, they have been very professional and helpful but we did have disappointing a mix up early on in our treatments. At one point I left a message letting the clinic know I had ovulated (according to my predictor kit) but they didn't return my call for over 24 hours.
Age
38
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 3 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
7
8
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens has been cheerful, optimistic, realistic, and helpful. We were all hoping to see a positive result last round but she readjusted my meds and we are continue to "trouble shoot" with hopes of a positive result soon. All in all, I feel pretty comfortable with her.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
I would advise potential patients to get a clear picture of the treatment schedule and the financial plan. This is not an inexpensive endeavor so prospective patients should look into financial aid if needed -- hence, my current grant pursuit.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stevens and the entire team at Norther California Medical Fertility Clinic has been helpful, positive, and generally reassuring. I am now on my 3rd IUI treatment and I hope for a positive result this round!
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
1) Clomid (1 pill per day) and Estrace (2 pills per day), and IUI. Only had 1 follicle so we upped it.
2) Clomid (3 pills per day) and planned IUI but had to cancel due to a cycle calculation/scheduling error Had 1 follicle but we made a mistake with the cycle scheduling so had to cancel our scheduled IUI procedures that month.
3) Clomid (3 pills), Gonal F at 75 units, IUI. TWO follicles but a BFN.
4)Clomid (3 pills), Gonal F at 75 units, IUI. Two follicles again but BFN.
5) Clomid (3 pills), Estrace (2 per day), Gonal F at 125 units (only 4 days). 1 follicle . . .
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Joanne)
Joann is my current nurse coordinator but she is newly assigned to me. I have had several coordinators in the 5 months we've been at the clinic. My current nurse coordinator has been very communicative and helpful.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
The clinic is well organized with friendly staff. Because the five or so clinic doctors share cases, you never know who will be seeing you. That may be off-putting for some but it doesn't bother me. The ambiance leaves a little to be desired but that isn't really important.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Round 1 with clomid and estrace ran $1800 with meds, round 2 was $800 because we had to cancel it. Rounds 3 and 4 with Gonal F and IUI ran about $2300 each. This current round is running about $3000. All in all, we have spent about $10K with treatments and meds.
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
We haven't taken this step yet but we may be headed down that road.
What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
- Lost paperwork
- Canceled a cycle due to clinic error
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Overwhelmingly, they have been very professional and helpful but we did have disappointing a mix up early on in our treatments. At one point I left a message letting the clinic know I had ovulated (according to my predictor kit) but they didn't return my call for over 24 hours. When they didn't respond again, I just showed up to the clinic to explain the situation. They were very apologetic and rushed me in for an ultrasound. Unfortunately, it confirmed that I just missed my window. That round was an expensive wash -- it cost us over $800 in meds and appointments. It was a difficult month but things have been much better since that time.
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10
10
Age
26 - 27
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
4 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
Dr. Stephens was very warm to talk to and always explained treatment, diagnosis, and odds to a level my partner and I could easily understand. She was always realistic in expectations of procedures. She listened to us and gave us choices to enable us to have a part in directing our care.... We were diagnosed as unexplained infertility after routine infertility lab tests were performed. We did 4 rounds of IUI: 3 with clomid and 1 with injections.
[N. CA Fertility Medical Center is] Clean and organized but there were a few times they were running late with their schedule and I had to wait. But if that means they were giving quality empathetic care to all of their patients, I would not have them give that up for me to be seen on time.... All the nursing staff were fantastic: warm, friendly, understanding, and hopeful. I did not have any bad interactions with the nursing staff.
Age
26 - 27
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
4 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
I love this doctor. She is very nice, intelligent, and portrays an understanding of the emotional aspect of going through infertility. She always explained all testing and treatment options to us. I would recommend her 100%.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Feel free to ask her about anything. She will never hurry you and will always give a direct comprehendable response.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens was very warm to talk to and always explained treatment, diagnosis, and odds to a level my partner and I could easily understand. She was always realistic in expectations of procedures. She listened to us and gave us choices to enable us to have a part in directing our care.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
We were diagnosed as unexplained infertility after routine infertility lab tests were performed. We did 4 rounds of IUI: 3 with clomid and 1 with injections. All 4 ended in negative pregnancies. Since IUIs were not working, Dr. Stephens gave us a choice of continuing with the IUIs or going to IVF; she explained to us that the rates of success after 3-4 failed IUIs declines so we chose to move forward with IVF. We had 8 embryos to start with. We were going to do a fresh transfer of 1 embryo (she recommended transferring just 1 because of our unexplained infertility diagnosis and we are young - we were totally on board with that plan) but my estrogen levels were a little bit elevated after the egg retrieval and she told us there was less of a chance of the embryo implanting with my hormone levels being off. She gave us the option and we decided to do a freeze all. We were able to freeze 6 embryos (2 of them were not high enough quality to freeze). It was another few months before we could attempt a frozen transfer due to my cycles being off and the lab being closed for cleaning during the holidays. When it came time to do the frozen transfer, she planned for me to ovulate so that my body could create its own corpus luteum to produce my own progesterone so I wouldn’t have to do the progesterone in oil shots. I became pregnant upon the first embryo transfer, was released to my regular OB after viable pregnancy was confirmed with seeing a fetal pole and heartbeat on ultrasound. I carried that baby to term and was able to deliver vaginally.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Dotty)
All the nursing staff were fantastic: warm, friendly, understanding, and hopeful. I did not have any bad interactions with the nursing staff.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Clean and organized but there were a few times they were running late with their schedule and I had to wait. But if that means they were giving quality empathetic care to all of their patients, I would not have them give that up for me to be seen on time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I can’t recall specifics but I believe the IUIs were between $800-$1000 each and the IVF procedures were just under $10,000. My insurance covered most medications for all procedures
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I am really happy she gave us this option so my pregnancy was less high risk with 1 baby and chance of needing a c-section was lowered. I felt I was able to enjoy my pregnancy and not worry about all the high risk issues that come with having twins/multiples.
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8
0
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
8
0
We weren't really told about PGS/PGT testing as an option [by Dr. Sahar Stephens] to help balance multiple embryo transfer - but this was also back in 2015/2016 and perhaps that practice has now changed... really took the time to listen. She was compassionate, and answered all questions. I really appreciated her personally...is a very intelligent and methodical doctor. She listened well and provided compassion when necessary to the process. I never felt rushed when seeing Dr. Stephens and felt like she really cared about the our outcome.
I was constantly having to stay on top of my nurse during our cycle [at Northern California Fertility Medical Center]. Additionally, we weren't really educated on things like PGS testing...While we loved Dr. Stephens, we were less than impressed with this clinic during our time there. It was difficult to get a call back from the main nursing line and there were what I now know were pretty important pieces of information that weren't ever relayed to us. Specifically, we were never talked to about PGS testing. We were given a handout but it was really brushed over and made to sound like something people really didn't do so we didn't put much stock in it and moved on. I wish I had been more thoroughly educated on how it can improve success rates.
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Business Executive
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
8
0
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens is a very intelligent and methodical doctor. She listened well and provided compassion when necessary to the process. I never felt rushed when seeing Dr. Stephens and felt like she really cared about the our outcome.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
I had a very positive experience with Dr. Stephens so I don't really have any advice.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens really took the time to listen. She was compassionate, and answered all questions. I really appreciated her personally.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
I do not remember the specifics of the protocol used during my retrieval.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Miriam)
Miriam is no longer there but she was very disorganized. She didn't return calls or emails and I was constantly having to keep up on her to make sure I was on the right track during my treatment.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
While we loved Dr. Stephens, we were less than impressed with this clinic during our time there. It was difficult to get a call back from the main nursing line and there were what I now know were pretty important pieces of information that weren't ever relayed to us. Specifically, we were never talked to about PGS testing. We were given a handout but it was really brushed over and made to sound like something people really didn't do so we didn't put much stock in it and moved on. I wish I had been more thoroughly educated on how it can improve success rates.
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
We weren't really told about PGS/PGT testing as an option to help balance multiple embryo transfer - but this was also back in 2015/2016 and perhaps that practice has now changed.
What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
- Lost appointments
- Failed to call with results
- Provided conflicting information
- Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I was constantly having to stay on top of my nurse during our cycle. Additionally, we weren't really educated on things like PGS testing.
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10
10
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis
10
10
I love Dr. Stephens approach to care. She is knowledgeable and gentle with how she presents her knowledge. We patients are already entering this process worried and stressed about the outcome. Having a physician genuinely show they care and try to make the process easier counts so much. At the end of the day, she speaks to me like a human being and not just another woman struggling with infertility. She roots for us and we can feel that.
This clinic [N. CA Fertility Medical Center] is very friendly. They make making appointments easy. You have your nurse coordinator throughout your whole time your there. You become like a little family. When your coordinator is not available, the nurse covering is always prepped and knows exactly what is going on with your cycle/care.... [nurse] Awesome communicator. Very quick response to emails and phone calls.
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
I love Dr. Stephens approach to care. She is knowledgeable and gentle with how she presents her knowledge. We patients are already entering this process worried and stressed about the outcome. Having a physician genuinely show they care and try to make the process easier counts so much. At the end of the day, she speaks to me like a human being and not just another woman struggling with infertility. She roots for us and we can feel that. She’s gentle with not so god is news, but doesn’t shy away from giving us the truth. She’s the absolute best.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Expect honesty with a gentle bedside manner.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens always takes the time to explain every process and treatment. Answers questions and never appears rushed.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
My current cycle she used higher doses of stimulation based on my results from my last cycle. Higher higher gonal-F and Menopur doses
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Alyssa Schnoer)
Awesome communicator. Very quick response to emails and phone calls.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
This clinic is very friendly. They make making appointments easy. You have your nurse coordinator throughout your whole time your there. You become like a little family. When your coordinator is not available, the nurse covering is always prepped and knows exactly what is going on with your cycle/care.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
17,000
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Usually, the plan is for 2 embryo transfers at a time. However, this clinic has never made me feel like I can’t make my own decision on wether I want 1 or 2 embryo transfers.
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10
10
Age
36
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
10
Dr Stephens took the time to speak with me and answer any questions I have. She also suggested doing more tests to perhaps do an IUI instead of jumping straight to IVF as the first clinic I went to was going to do. She was warm to me and made me feel comfortable...She had a plan of action and didn’t want to just bypass and more tests and go straight to ivf like another clinic was going to do. She explained everything fully to us and she made sure we knew what to do next
I’ve been extremely happy so far. With the wait times to be seen, to speaking to people on the phone. I have been happy with the care I have received here [No Cal Fert Med Ctr ] on every level. I would recommend them to my family and friends...The nurses that I met with were so compassionate and caring. She kept telling me I know this is a lot of information and made sure I understand exactly what I needed to do next
Age
36
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She made me feel comfortable. She had a plan of action and didn’t want to just bypass and more tests and go straight to ivf like another clinic was going to do. She explained everything fully to us and she made sure we knew what to do next
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
To ask for dr Stephens because she was great!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr Stephens took the time to speak with me and answer any questions I have. She also suggested doing more tests to perhaps do an IUI instead of jumping straight to IVF as the first clinic I went to was going to do. She was warm to me and made me feel comfortable
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
I am just starting treatment. She did have a detailed plan for me to get more baseline tests done to determine whether we can/will start with an IUI or ivf. I will be getting the test done the week to determine what our plan is next
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nurses that I met with were so compassionate and caring. She kept telling me I know this is a lot of information and made sure I understand exactly what I needed to do next
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I’ve been extremely happy so far. With the wait times to be seen, to speaking to people on the phone. I have been happy with the care I have received here on every level. I would recommend them to my family and friends
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I’m still in the beginning phases. It was $225 for consultation and $180 for semen analysis
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I’m not that far yet
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10
10
Age
27 - 28
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 IUI, IVF, Egg Freezing, Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
Tubal Blockage
10
10
She was amazing at explaining the process of IUI and medications. My hsg showed a blockage from the radiologist but she was able to find an opening giving me a sense of hope. I went home after her appointments with a smile... She started me on Clomid 50mg for my first IUI. But it only yeilded 1 nature follicle so i has to increase safely over the course of the next cycle.
One weakness [for N CA Fertility Med Ctr-Roseville] i would mention is the training of new hires, they lost my first IUI payment and thank god i had my receipt or else they would have over charged me 1000$! Make sure the new hires at the front desk are aware of how to handle money and transactions before asking for another payment.... 1200$ per IUI 13000 per IVF
Age
27 - 28
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 3 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, IVF, Egg Freezing, Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
Tubal Blockage
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She was amazing at explaining the process of IUI and medications.
My hsg showed a blockage from the radiologist but she was able to find an opening giving me a sense of hope. I went home after her appointments with a smile
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Don’t forget to ask questions! There are no dumb questions
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She was very nice and up front about my first IUI procedure. She explained everything and was comforting in how high her hopes were for a positive outcome which is something every woman needs during this hard time.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
She started me on Clomid 50mg for my first IUI. But it only yeilded 1 nature follicle so i has to increase safely over the course of the next cycle.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Courtney )
Courtney explained everything in detail for me over the phone before i even met with her to go over my flow sheet and injectables!
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
One weakness i would mention is the training of new hires, they lost my first IUI payment and thank god i had my receipt or else they would have over charged me 1000$!
Make sure the new hires at the front desk are aware of how to handle money and transactions before asking for another payment.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
20$ co pays for new patient visit.
1200$ per IUI
13000 per IVF
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I would prefer 2 or 3 embryos but she’s very certain one is all I’ll need for a healthy baby after IVF
What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
- Lost paperwork
- Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
The medical assistants shouldn’t be going over genetic testing results without the providers knowing.
I was told i was at a high risk when in fact i was a low risk!
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10
9
Age
22
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
10
9
Doctor Stephens was very kind and shared a lot of information with us in regards to what’s next and what I need to work on for the future treatment. Also she explained the risks along with also giving me personal advice in regards to weight manangement and inducing period. ... even with being so young and seeking help I never flet judged by Doctor Stephens.
I would like to see improvement in communicating with patients that have not yet started treatment but have had a consultation. ... I love the clinic [N CA Fertility Medical Center] over all , whenever I have a question I immediately call them and get a response the same day. They are great. On top of that the portal communication is awesome. ... My experiences have honestly good, well just some [nurses] show more willingness than others but it’s the case in every job.
Age
22
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Latino
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
10
9
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Doctor Stephens was very kind and shared a lot of information with us in regards to what’s next and what I need to work on for the future treatment. Also she explained the risks along with also giving me personal advice in regards to weight manangement and inducing period.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Please follow Dr. Stephens advice and don’t elongate your process by avoiding what needs to get done to go forward with your treatment process. I have elogated my process because I’ve been trying to control my A1C as it needs to be below a 6.5 to start treatment.
You can do it !
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
I felt like a human because even with being so young and seeking help I never flet judged by Doctor Stephens.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
My experiences have honestly good, well just some show more willingness than others but it’s the case in every job.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I love the clinic over all , whenever I have a question I immediately call them and get a response the same day. They are great. On top of that the portal communication is awesome. I would like to see improvement in communicating with patients that have not yet started treatment but have had a consultation.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I paid for my consultation only
What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
- Canceled a cycle due to clinic error
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I was suppose to start a timely intercourse cycle last year after I called in that my period had arrived and I was told by a medical assistant the same day I was not going to be able to start the cycle due to my a1c being elevated and it needed to be below 6.5. I was told on the day my medications were going to be filled to start my first cycle of treatment.
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10
10
Age
35
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
4 IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis, Male Factor
10
10
I switched to this clinic from another local clinic specifically for IVF treatment. I wanted a more innovative and customized treatment. I definitely found this with Dr. Stephens. She is very easy to talk to, ask questions, and doesn't sugarcoat anything. While she was very candid about my treatment plan and the possible outcomes, she was not without compassion and warmth. She tailored an extremely aggressive protocol for me, utilized supplements, and some alternative and innovative treatment ideas. Extremely pleased I made the switch!
It's a very busy clinic [Northern California Fertility Medical Center], and things do fall through the cracks. I have had to be flexible and do things on their time more than mine. But whenever I made a phone call or followed up I got an answer quickly...I switched to this clinic from another local clinic specifically for IVF treatment. I wanted a more innovative and customized treatment. I definitely found this with Dr. Stephens....We had insurance coverage: IVF cycle with ICSI $6,000 medications $200.
Age
35
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
3rd of 3 Docs
Treatment
4 IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis, Male Factor
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
I switched to this clinic from another local clinic specifically for IVF treatment. I wanted a more innovative and customized treatment. I definitely found this with Dr. Stephens. She is very easy to talk to, ask questions, and doesn't sugarcoat anything. While she was very candid about my treatment plan and the possible outcomes, she was not without compassion and warmth. She tailored an extremely aggressive protocol for me, utilized supplements, and some alternative and innovative treatment ideas. Extremely pleased I made the switch!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Feel free to ask as many questions about the process or your possible outcome.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She always greets me with a smile and "nice to see you again" I never feel like she doesn't remember my history, my name, or where I am in the process or cycle. Very warm and caring, but without being condescending.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
CoQ10, DHEA, birth control pills for pre cycle. Microdose Lupron, Follistim 300iu, Menopur 150iu, (administered IM for better response) letrozole 5mg days 2-6 (endometriosis) 81mg Aspirin, dexamethasone (egg quality), PIO, e2 p4 suppositories. ICSI for male factor
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
It's a very busy clinic, and things do fall through the cracks. I have had to be flexible and do things on their time more than mine. But whenever I made a phone call or followed up I got an answer quickly.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
We had insurance coverage: IVF cycle with ICSI $6,000 medications $200
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
30 - 32
Treated
2014 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality
10
10
I absolutely adore Dr Stephens. She is up front and honest but treats me like a person and not just a "patient" she answers ALL my questions on appointments without making it seem like I am taking up her time a Or bugging her. She has set realistic goals for my plan for pregnancy. She answers my emails in 2 days tops! She is so sweet and kind and I feel like that is hard to come by with doctors in this field. If you are In the sac area I highly recommend her!
Strengths [at Northern California Fertility Medical Center] are the doctored and nurses. Weaknesses would be the financial coordinator. Worst communication EVER. Lost my IVF check. Wouldn't email back. Didn't keep track of payments- awful experience with them. [Monitoring is] always in and out! Very easy while working!...I love Dr Stephens. From the get go she has been up front with my treatment while also doing so with empathy. She is the reason why I switched RE's at my clinic
Age
30 - 32
Treated
2014 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
—
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
I absolutely adore Dr Stephens. She is up front and honest but treats me like a person and not just a "patient" she answers ALL my questions on appointments without making it seem like I am taking up her time a
Or bugging her. She has set realistic goals for my plan for pregnancy. She answers my emails in 2 days tops! She is so sweet and kind and I feel like that is hard to come by with doctors in this field. If you are In the sac area I highly recommend her!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Just ask questions and listen!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
I love Dr Stephens. From the get go she has been up front with my treatment while also doing so with empathy. She is the reason why I switched RE's at my clinic
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
My first IVF cycle I was on an antagonist plan with low dose gonal f and menopur. I ended up producing 15 eggs but due to low quality they arrested before day 5 except for two that were put in on day 3- BFN. He next cycle she upped my Meds to a higher dose to try and create more eggs, and chose a Lupron trigger to ensure I didn't develop OHSS. I got 30 eggs retrieved this cycle and 10 frozen blasts! Her plan coupled with my egg boot camp to change my quality.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Strengths are the doctored and nurses. Weaknesses would be the financial coordinator. Worst communication EVER. Lost my IVF check. Wouldn't email back. Didn't keep track of payments- awful experience with them
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Always in and out! Very easy while working!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
8k for IVF, 3-4K for Meds
What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
- Lost paperwork
- Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
It's all the financial team. They suck at communication and seem unorganized and flighty
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8
9
Age
43
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
4 IVF
Diagnosis
—
8
9
Dr. Stephens was the first female RE Dr. I had been treated by, and who I did my third fresh IVF cycle with. At our initial meeting I sensed she was a little reserved yet approachable, she had a direct approach about the cycle protocol we would be using and over the course of treatment I found her to be a caring Dr...The treatment used was Traditional IVF, beginning with ovarian suppression BCP, followed by IVF Cycle Type Mircodose Lupron, Gonal- F, Menopur. I believe the protocol used was primarily based on my previous IVF treatment at another center in 2003, it then produced positive results, a healthy pregnancy and birth. With Dr. Stephens protocol it's my opinion that do to my age (43) at the time of treatment ovarian suppression was unnecessary, in doing so this may have been a factor as to why fewer follicles developed.
I have nothing but wonderful things to say about my care coordinator [at NCFMC] nurse Miriam. She made everything run smoothly, she was very friendly and most of all caring. She also understood things on another level as she too was an infertility patient...The treatment used was Traditional IVF, beginning with ovarian suppression BCP, followed by IVF Cycle Type Mircodose Lupron, Gonal- F, Menopur. I believe the protocol used was primarily based on my previous IVF treatment at another center in 2003, it then produced positive results, a healthy pregnancy and birth. With Dr. Stephens protocol it's my opinion that do to my age (43) at the time of treatment ovarian suppression was unnecessary, in doing so this may have been a factor as to why fewer follicles developed.
Age
43
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European, Latino, Native American
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 4 Docs
Treatment
4 IVF
Diagnosis
—
8
9
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens was the first female RE Dr. I had been treated by, and who I did my third fresh IVF cycle with. At our initial meeting I sensed she was a little reserved yet approachable, she had a direct approach about the cycle protocol we would be using and over the course of treatment I found her to be a caring Dr.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Don't base a permanent opinion of her on your first encounter.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens has a straight forward approach yet compassionate and understanding at the same time.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
The treatment used was Traditional IVF, beginning with ovarian suppression BCP, followed by IVF Cycle Type Mircodose Lupron, Gonal- F, Menopur.
I believe the protocol used was primarily based on my previous IVF treatment at another center in 2003, it then produced positive results, a healthy pregnancy and birth.
With Dr. Stephens protocol it's my opinion that do to my age (43) at the time of treatment ovarian suppression was unnecessary, in doing so this may have been a factor as to why fewer follicles developed.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Miriam)
I have nothing but wonderful things to say about my care coordinator nurse Miriam. She made everything run smoothly, she was very friendly and most of all caring. She also understood things on another level as she too was an infertility patient.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Strengths: I feel this clinics strengths are their staff from the Dr.'s to their nursing staff, and embryologist team. They made you feel welcomed.
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
No strong approach. We had three with different grades, so all three were transferred.
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10
10
Age
28 - 29
Treated
2014 - 2015
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
10
10
She [Dr. Stephens] made me feel good about my body again. She made my self esteem build up again. ... She made us feel comfortable and understand that we’re not alone. ... She explained to me every step of the path we were taking. ... My first round of IVF she made sure to keep tracking my egg counts. Then after getting a negative test result she made sure that the next round she followed even more closely.
They [No CA Fertility Medical Center] always were following up and very clear and up front about all coats ... They made sure from the very first call I made into their office till the last appointment to make sure they were very professional and compassionate. Their office was very clean and made sure to keep client privacy number one. ... They [nurses] became to know me on first name basis. They were praying just as much as I was to get pregnant
Age
28 - 29
Treated
2014 - 2015
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Sales Representative
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 3 Docs
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She wanted to know more about my husband and I. She made us feel comfortable and understand that we’re not alone. She made me feel good about my body again. She made my self esteem build up again. She explained to me every step of the path we were taking. She made sure that I felt like it’s not just me in this and it was a team to get a result
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Give faith in her. She knows what’s she’s talking about and will help you through the whole thing
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Her and her staff really took personal al interest in mine and my husbands treatment. They cared. They were very heartfelt
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
My first round of IVF she made sure to keep tracking my egg counts. Then after getting a negative test result she made sure that the next round she followed even more closely. She made sure to keep adjusting my hormone amounts to do for injection
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
They became to know me on first name basis. They were praying just as much as I was to get pregnant
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
They made sure from the very first call I made into their office till the last appointment to make sure they were very professional and compassionate. Their office was very clean and made sure to keep client privacy number one. They always were following up and very clear and up front about all coats
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Our first round of treatment was covered under insurance. Second round was out of pocket and was around $10000
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10
10
Age
37 - 41
Treated
2015 - 2019
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality
10
10
Well I’m over 40 and my husband has a low sperm count so she [Dr. Stephens] was very helpful with being honest with our possible outcomes and gave helpful advice and other options for our situation ... She is just amazing honest and helpful very caring and friendly ... . She felt like she really cared and wanted to do all she could to help our situation . If I had any concerns or questions she was always there to answer them or get someone who could
All around helpful friendly and kind. They [Northern California Fertility Med Center] make you feel welcome and like family they really get to know you and do what they can to help you and make you feel safe and comfortable in any way they can without any false promises or misleading ... Absolutely professional [nursing staff] and friendly always made me feel like a person they cared about and truly wanted to help. They are very knowledgeable as well
Age
37 - 41
Treated
2015 - 2019
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Latino
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 4 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She was always honest in a kind way and willing to explain anything and always help . She felt like she really cared and wanted to do all she could to help our situation . If I had any concerns or questions she was always there to answer them or get someone who could
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Come with all your questions and ready to listen to her advice and trust her
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She is just amazing honest and helpful very caring and friendly
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
Well I’m over 40 and my husband has a low sperm count so she was very helpful with being honest with our possible outcomes and gave helpful advice and other options for our situation
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Absolutely professional and friendly always made me feel like a person they cared about and truly wanted to help. They are very knowledgeable as well
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
All around helpful friendly and kind. They make you feel welcome and like family they really get to know you and do what they can to help you and make you feel safe and comfortable in any way they can without any false promises or misleading
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Cost where high but all relevant unfortunately my insurance didn’t cover anything but if I had the money I would keep trying until successfull
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9
9
Age
24 - 26
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
5 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Male Factor
9
9
She [Stephens] was very thoughtful and always answered all my questions . She made sure I knew what we were getting into. Personally she is a very nice doctor. Although she wasn’t the only doctor I saw I know she was reviewing my charts with the other doctors that I saw.... The first IVF I did we used max medications and stims. But we didn’t get any follicles. The second IVF we used minimal meds and got one follicle, but at the egg retrieval no eggs were there.
The clinic [Northern CA Fert Med Ctr] is very clean and everyone there is friendly. Every time I had to call and talk to someone, I would leave a voicemail and they always got back to me within a couple hours, sooner if it was needed.... Susan [nurse] was very helpful and I felt very comfortable asking her about anything. She highlighted my flowsheets and it made it a lot easier to follow the directions.... for IVF I paid 2,000-3,000 on meds the first time, and 1,500 the second time.
Age
24 - 26
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
5 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Male Factor
9
9
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She was very thoughtful and always answered all my questions . She made sure I knew what we were getting into. Personally she is a very nice doctor. Although she wasn’t the only doctor I saw I know she was reviewing my charts with the other doctors that I saw.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Be strong. It’s a tough road but hopefully it will end well
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
The first IVF I did we used max medications and stims. But we didn’t get any follicles. The second IVF we used minimal meds and got one follicle, but at the egg retrieval no eggs were there.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Susan)
Susan was very helpful and I felt very comfortable asking her about anything. She highlighted my flowsheets and it made it a lot easier to follow the directions.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
The clinic is very clean and everyone there is friendly. Every time I had to call and talk to someone, I would leave a voicemail and they always got back to me within a couple hours, sooner if it was needed.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I don’t remember how much I paid for the IUIs and IVF. I know for IVF I paid 2,000-3,000 on meds the first time, and 1,500 the second time.
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Never got that far
- Read less
Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained, Other
10
10
Dr Stephens was very friendly and compassionate every time I met with her. She did both of my hysteroscopy procedures, and a couple of our cycle review visits. She has empathy and understanding, and is very knowledgeable and personable. While I enjoy other doctors at this clinic too, she's my favorite.... For Round 2, she's maxing out my dosages to get as many eggs as possible since I have a genetic condition and Round 1 results were worse than expected.
Courtney [a nurse at No CA Fertility Medical Center] isn't a bubbly/exciting personality, but she knows what she's doing and is helpful when you need it. If you're looking for a cheerleader nurse, she's probably not the one for you.... My main issue was with the lab technicians drawing blood poorly. Everything else has been great! The office staff are available readily via email so that's nice to have access for billing & insurance questions too.
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Operations
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained, Other
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr Stephens was very friendly and compassionate every time I met with her. She did both of my hysteroscopy procedures, and a couple of our cycle review visits. She has empathy and understanding, and is very knowledgeable and personable. While I enjoy other doctors at this clinic too, she's my favorite.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
No advice, she's great!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She's very warm and caring
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
For Round 2, she's maxing out my dosages to get as many eggs as possible since I have a genetic condition and Round 1 results were worse than expected.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Courtney)
Courtney isn't a bubbly/exciting personality, but she knows what she's doing and is helpful when you need it. If you're looking for a cheerleader nurse, she's probably not the one for you.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
My main issue was with the lab technicians drawing blood poorly. Everything else has been great! The office staff are available readily via email so that's nice to have access for billing & insurance questions too.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Round 2 fees without insurance but including a cash discount are about $12250, not including meds, PGS, anesthesia, storage.
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
n/a
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10
9
Age
34
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
—
Diagnosis
Male Factor
10
9
She [Dr. Stephens] is great at making sure you understand everything she saying and getting all your questions no matter what they are answered. Even though she sees a lot of patience you would never know it because she makes you feel important... She was not a pose to transfer into embryos for certain age groups. If embryos were PGS tested then the policy is to only transfer one... Make sure you go in with all your questions and don’t be afraid to ask them because she will answer them
The reception area and the clinic [Northern CA Fertility Med Ctr] is very nice but it has a very awkward feeling in the waiting room, I’m not sure what to suggest to maybe change this. The wait times are usually fairly quickly. The facility is kept very clean... Nursing staff was always very kind and caring during appointments. And always called back right away... Initial consultation was @$250, bloodworm package was $300...
Age
34
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
—
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
—
Diagnosis
Male Factor
10
9
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She is great at making sure you understand everything she saying and getting all your questions no matter what they are answered. Even though she sees a lot of patience you would never know it because she makes you feel important
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Make sure you go in with all your questions and don’t be afraid to ask them because she will answer them
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She took her time and talked in depth about our situation, I never felt rushed and she always made sure I understood everything and all questions were answered
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Nursing staff was always very kind and caring during appointments. And always called back right away
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
The reception area and the clinic is very nice but it has a very awkward feeling in the waiting room, I’m not sure what to suggest to maybe change this. The wait times are usually fairly quickly. The facility is kept very clean
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Initial consultation was @$250, bloodworm package was $300.. I don’t remember how much the saline ultrasound was.
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
She was not a pose to transfer into embryos for certain age groups. If embryos were PGS tested then the policy is to only transfer one
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10
8
Age
31 - 33
Treated
2015 - 2017
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
4 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Other
10
8
Dr Stephens has worked very hard over the last 2 years to try and solve my infertility issues. With continued set backs we kept moving forward. I wish the outcome would be more positive but she has tried her best...Letrozole due to endometriosis. Upping doses when the first ones didn't work.
Twice prescriptions were not called in when they said they were doing it. Both times I was in need of medications to start the next morning. I am in the middle of a Fertility cycle now and need my meds tomorrow morning and I have to call in the morning again to try and get them called in again...Dr Stephens has worked very hard over the last 2 years to try and solve my infertility issues. With continued set backs we kept moving forward. I wish the outcome would be more positive but she has tried her best...Letrozole due to endometriosis. Upping doses when the first ones didn't work.
Age
31 - 33
Treated
2015 - 2017
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
4 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Other
10
8
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr Stephens has worked very hard over the last 2 years to try and solve my infertility issues. With continued set backs we kept moving forward. I wish the outcome would be more positive but she has tried her best.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She's great.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She's an awesome Dr. Easy to talk to and very informative.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
Letrozole due to endometriosis. Upping doses when the first ones didn't work.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
I have had at least 2 occasions in which my medications were not called in and I was in need of them the very next day. I am actually waiting to call tomorrow morning on one that was supposed to be faxed in last night for Fertility meds that I need in the morning.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Clean, friendly
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I can't even add up all of the money I have spent on surgeries the last several years. 5,000 yearly at least in surgeries and Fertility meds if not more.
What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Twice prescriptions were not called in when they said they were doing it. Both times I was in need of medications to start the next morning. I am in the middle of a Fertility cycle now and need my meds tomorrow morning and I have to call in the morning again to try and get them called in again.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
9
9
Age
28
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IUI, 1 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Diminished Ovarian Reserve, PCOS, Poor Egg Quality, Uterine Fibroids
9
9
Dr. Stephens looked at our fertility struggle individually. She didn't compare us to other couples. Our protocol wasn't standard, and she made sure we agreed with every step of the process.
Dottie [Northern California Fertility Medical Center nurse] is the absolute best. She came in on her day off to be there the day we started our IVF process. She always made sure she was up to date on our progress...We saw all the doctors at one point for monitoring...t first this was hard with monitoring, but we found the diverse opinions to be helpful.
Age
28
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 4 Docs
Treatment
1 IUI, 1 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Diminished Ovarian Reserve, PCOS, Poor Egg Quality, Uterine Fibroids
9
9
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr.Stephens looked at our fertility struggle individually. She didn't compare us to other couples. Our protocol wasn't standard, and she made sure we agreed with every step of the process.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens is one of the newest doctors in the clinic, but she is also the one who is most up to date on new methods, and isn't afraid to try things that aren't standard. If there is ever any question she will consult her team of colleagues.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens and her staff knew us by name, and knew exactly where we were in the process.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Dottie)
Dottie is the absolute best. She came in on her day off to be there the day we started our IVF process. She always made sure she was up to date on our progress. Her instructions were clear, and she was compassionate. She would call and check on me during the process.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
We saw all the doctors at one point for monitoring. They work together to be open 7 days a week. At first this was hard with monitoring, but we found the diverse opinions to be helpful. It required me to miss work quite often as the monitoring appts were mostly mid morning to allow for change in medications for the evening.
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10
10
Age
34 - 37
Treated
2015 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
5 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
She is amazing, so caring and kind. I am so glad I have her as my primary doctor. I only wish I could have had her at each IUI but I know the way your cycle works that is not possible. I had one other doctor do my IUI that was not very nice....Dr Stephens is great! She is so friendly, empathic and kind...Also on my first IUI, they set the timer and left me in the room and didn’t tell me how long the time was set for or offer to hand me my purse so I could look at my phone. I wish they would have explained better the process so I could have been prepared.
Clinic [No Cal Fert Med Ctr] is great... I wish there was multiple locations. Also on my first IUI, they set the timer and left me in the room and didn’t tell me how long the time was set for or offer to hand me my purse so I could look at my phone. I wish they would have explained better the process so I could have been prepared....Everyone is great...Dr Stephens is great! She is so friendly, empathic and kind
Age
34 - 37
Treated
2015 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
5 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She is amazing, so caring and kind. I am so glad I have her as my primary doctor. I only wish I could have had her at each IUI but I know the way your cycle works that is not possible. I had one other doctor do my IUI that was not very nice.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Pick her
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr Stephens is great! She is so friendly, empathic and kind
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
No other reason for infertility so did IUI multiple times
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Everyone is great
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Clinic is great, only bummer is it is out of the way from my home. I wish there was multiple locations. Also on my first IUI, they set the timer and left me in the room and didn’t tell me how long the time was set for or offer to hand me my purse so I could look at my phone. I wish they would have explained better the process so I could have been prepared.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I don’t remember exactly. Seems like each IUI was around 500 but that’s with some insurance coverage
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8
10
Age
34
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
5 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
—
8
10
During my consultation with Dr. Stephan’s I immediately felt comfortable and at ease. She had an easy personality and had a slideshow and picture of what to expect during treatment. She allowed for plenty of time for us to ask questions and answered them without making it seem like we were bothering her....During my consultation with Dr. Stephans she was calm, informative and open for questions and taking the time to answer questions without seeming rushed or put off.
I liked that this clinic [N. CA Fertility Medical Ctr] had an online patient portal with any needed information, frequently asked questions, and a way to communicate with nurses. The front desk staff were nice and easy to work with and make appointments with....Nursing staff was organized, clear and considerate....During my consultation with Dr. Stephan’s I immediately felt comfortable and at ease. She had an easy personality and had a slideshow and picture of what to expect during treatment.
Age
34
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
3rd of 3 Docs
Treatment
5 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
—
8
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
During my consultation with Dr. Stephan’s I immediately felt comfortable and at ease. She had an easy personality and had a slideshow and picture of what to expect during treatment. She allowed for plenty of time for us to ask questions and answered them without making it seem like we were bothering her.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Ask as many questions as you can!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
During my consultation with Dr. Stephans she was calm, informative and open for questions and taking the time to answer questions without seeming rushed or put off.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
I only had a consultation
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Nursing staff was organized, clear and considerate.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I liked that this clinic had an online patient portal with any needed information, frequently asked questions, and a way to communicate with nurses. The front desk staff were nice and easy to work with and make appointments with.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I believe my consultation fee was $150
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9
8
Age
36
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
9
8
Dr Stephens is extremely kind and patient. She called me personally...Dr Stephens is calm, cool and collected. She explains things thoroughly and follows through with things. She makes you feel comfortable and at ease. Dr. Stephens gets back to you in a timely manner. She addresses concerns and is very honest.
Communication could be better. Dealing with waiting for a nurse call back can be tough. Appointments can be hard to schedule. A friend is going through BIG and showed me how egg donors bios and pictures are online. I did several egg donations years ago. I would not have done it if my info was that easy to access. This seems like a privacy issue. I would say putting it on the portal would be better. Maybe more people would donate.
Age
36
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 3 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
9
8
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr Stephens is calm, cool and collected. She explains things thoroughly and follows through with things. She makes you feel comfortable and at ease. Dr. Stephens gets back to you in a timely manner. She addresses concerns and is very honest.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
To have questions ready because it's easy to forget when in the moment.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr Stephens is extremely kind and patient. She called me personally.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Communication could be better. Dealing with waiting for a nurse call back can be tough. Appointments can be hard to schedule. A friend is going through BIG and showed me how egg donors bios and pictures are online. I did several egg donations years ago. I would not have done it if my info was that easy to access. This seems like a privacy issue. I would say putting it on the portal would be better. Maybe more people would donate.
- Read less
Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2019 - 2020
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
IUI
Diagnosis
PCOS, Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
10
10
I appreciate [Dr. Sahar Stephens] being sensitive to how she relayed critical information...always addressed my concerns...is such a smart and caring provider. She absolutely knows what is necessary everytime my body reacts to medications. She responds promptly and understands how awful it is to go through treatments...Don't be afraid to ask questions. She has nurses and her assistant to help you!
Strengths for this clinic [Northern California Fertility Medical Center] is that they truly cared about my husband and I. From the front desk, billing, medical assistants and everyone made me feel at ease. Scheduling appointments were easy and they were always able to accommodate me. Weaknesses is the location and the building is older...I appreciate [Dr. Sahar Stephens] being sensitive to how she relayed critical information...always addressed my concerns...is such a smart and caring provider. She absolutely knows what is necessary everytime my body reacts to medications. She responds promptly and understands how awful it is to go through treatments...Don't be afraid to ask questions. She has nurses and her assistant to help you!
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2019 - 2020
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 4 Docs
Treatment
IUI
Diagnosis
PCOS, Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens is such a smart and caring provider. She absolutely knows what is necessary everytime my body reacts to medications. She responds promptly and understands how awful it is to go through treatments.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Don't be afraid to ask questions. She has nurses and her assistant to help you!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens always addressed my concerns. I appreciate here being sensitive to how she relayed critical information.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Strengths for this clinic is that they truly cared about my husband and I. From the front desk, billing, medical assistants and everyone made me feel at ease. Scheduling appointments were easy and they were always able to accommodate me.
Weaknesses is the location and the building is older.
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9
8
Age
38
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
9
8
My wife and I appreciate Dr. Stephen's bedside manner and kindness. ... Very thorough on our consultation appointment. Very kind, compassionate and patient. We appreciate that she takes the time to address our concerns and direct us to the appropriate staff to help us get the answers we are seeking. We have had hardships conceiving and have had struggles with our insurance not covering treatments. Dr. Stephen's has been empathetic and understanding of our feelings during the process.
Our insurance was denying us because we had not had "intercourse", when my wife and I are a same-sex couple. Racheall [coordinator at NCFMC] did not represent us properly when placing insurance claims and described being "uncomfortable" when I asked her to communicate with our insurance and ensure it was known that we are a same-sex couple when putting in insurance criteria for approval.
Age
38
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Native American
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 3 Docs
Treatment
1 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
9
8
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Very thorough on our consultation appointment. Very kind, compassionate and patient. We appreciate that she takes the time to address our concerns and direct us to the appropriate staff to help us get the answers we are seeking. We have had hardships conceiving and have had struggles with our insurance not covering treatments. Dr. Stephen's has been empathetic and understanding of our feelings during the process.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Be candid of your specific circumstances and your expectations, as well as listen and ask questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
My wife and I appreciate Dr. Stephen's bedside manner and kindness. We had an issue with one of the staff treating us poorly and she addressed it in a manner we were really happy with. We hope to continue forward with treatment and conceive a baby.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
Dr. Stephen's recommended we do the HSG procedure before undergoing treatment. We went forward with treatment under clomid and used ovidrel, and Tabitha prematurally ovulated one cycle and after IUI did not conceive. We did the HSG and found Tabitha had clear pathways in her fallopian tubes, so we are unsure why we have not been able to conceive.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Nursing staff are friendly and helpful.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I really dont care for the insurance coordinator Rachaell. She was very rude and lacked any compassion for my wife and I. Our insurance was denying us because we had not had "intercourse", when my wife and I are a same-sex couple. Racheall did not represent us properly when placing insurance claims and described being "uncomfortable" when I asked her to communicate with our insurance and ensure it was known that we are a same-sex couple when putting in insurance criteria for approval. We brought this to the attention of Dr. Stephen's and now we no longer work with Rachaell and have an alternative contact person.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
450 for IUI
350 Ultrasound (they cap cost at 2 during 1 cycle)
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
We are interested right now in the IUI procedure with donor sperm and have not discussed eSET.
What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
- Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
As mentioned before, Rachaell who handled our insurance was rude and not able to respectfully care for my wife and my needs. When we addressed it with Dr. Stephen's, Rachaell was removed from being our contact person.
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10
7
Age
33 - 36
Treated
2016 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF, Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Male Factor, PCOS, Unexplained
10
7
I met Dr. Stephens on my very first visit to NCFMC. From the very beginning she was warm and kind. She went over everything with my husband and I very thoroughly. We both respected and appreciated how much time she spent with us. When I suffered my two miscarriages she was empathetic and reassuring, she never lost hope or allowed me to do so. ... She is an extremely positive person, if you are needing someone who is more blunt or you are needing her to be more blunt you have to ask questions.
I had a hard time with reception [NCFMC] a handful of times. ... One time I was going to be about 15 minutes late and I called to let them know. I was told that was too bad and I would have to reschedule. Another time a receptionist got into a altercation with me over a payment I was not aware of. It was unprofessional and extremely stressful. ... Courtney was an amazing nurse, I was extremely lucky to have her assigned to me
Age
33 - 36
Treated
2016 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 3 Docs
Treatment
1 IVF, Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Male Factor, PCOS, Unexplained
10
7
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
I met Dr. Stephens on my very first visit to NCFMC. From the very beginning she was warm and kind. She went over everything with my husband and I very thoroughly. We both respected and appreciated how much time she spent with us. When I suffered my two miscarriages she was empathetic and reassuring, she never lost hope or allowed me to do so.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She is an extremely positive person, if you are needing someone who is more blunt or you are needing her to be more blunt you have to ask questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens was always warm and kind to me. She was willing to answer any and all of my questions. My nurse was always available to help me when Dr. Stephens was not.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
First treatment: egg retrieval, glonal F, menapur, estrogen, progesterone
Second treatment: fresh transfer: gonal f, progesterone oil, estrace and letrozole
Third treatment: frozen transfer: gonal f, progesterone oil, estrace and letrozole
Fourth treatment: frozen transfer: gonal f, progesterone oil, estrace and letrozole
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Courtney Swanson)
Courtney was an amazing nurse, I was extremely lucky to have her assigned to me. She was always, always available. She explained and would re-explain anything I needed. She is organized and thorough.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
The clinic was clean, efficient, always on time. All of the doctors and nurses treated you like you were their patient even if they had never met with you before. The only thing I can complain about is the front desk. I had a hard time with reception a handful of times. I had to drive about 45 min to the clinic and there was always heavy traffic. One time I was going to be about 15 minutes late and I called to let them know. I was told that was too bad and I would have to reschedule. Another time a receptionist got into a altercation with me over a payment I was not aware of. It was unprofessional and extremely stressful.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Egg retrieval was roughly 25,000
Embryo transfers roughly 2,500
Cost of meds with each treatment roughly 1,000
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
She and I believe the clinic, prefer to transfer one embryo at a time given the risks that are associated with multiple pregnancies. However, they give you all of the information and allow you to make the best decision for you and your body.
- Read less
10
10
Age
34 - 38
Treated
2015 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Poor Egg Quality, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained, Other
10
10
Dr Stephens is an excellent doc. She listens to what your goal is as a family and provides options, makes recommendations for treatment. She’s performed two surgeries on me as well. Both went extremely well and I always felt I was in the best hands. ... The docs consult with each other as needed to insure they are providing the best care possible to their patients. ... Dr Stephens and all my nurses [NCFMC] have always listened to all of my concerns and answered questions as best they could (sometimes the answer is just unknown with infertility).
Everyone at NCFMC is so kind and compassionate. ... They are open everyday to support their patients. They have an excellent team of doctors, embryologists and nurses. ... They also work hard to stay up to date on new developments in infertility treatment. ... The docs consult with each other as needed to insure they are providing the best care possible to their patients. ... They will transfer 2 if it’s something you feel strongly about
Age
34 - 38
Treated
2015 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Engineer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Poor Egg Quality, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained, Other
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr Stephens is an excellent doc. She listens to what your goal is as a family and provides options, makes recommendations for treatment. She’s performed two surgeries on me as well. Both went extremely well and I always felt I was in the best hands.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
As with any trip to a doc for a consult, come prepared with questions so you can get the most out of your appt.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Everyone at NCFMC is so kind and compassionate. Dr Stephens and all my nurses have always listened to all of my concerns and answered questions as best they could (sometimes the answer is just unknown with infertility). I’ve always felt they truly want to see my family grow and are always rooting us on through our challenges.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
We started with a diagnosis of RPL and MFI. We opted to skip IUI and go straight to IVF w/ PGS to increase our odds of a successful pregnancy. Ovarian reserve is good so we started with a standard antagonist cycle. Monitored every other day, bumped up my Gonal-F once. Good results at egg collection, 3 5day blasts all aneuploid. Second round discussed donor egg option, but said we could try again with my eggs as well. 3 months of recommended vitamin protocol (D3, CoQ10, DHEA). Stopped DHEA because of its effects on me. Second retrieval antagonist cycle with higher Follistim to start. Better egg numbers, 6 5day embryos, 3 euploid girls! First transfer diagnosed ectopic (my second after a ruptured ectopic). Opted to have last tube removed in preparation for second transfer. Second transfer negative results. Both transfers were low medicated with trigger to induce more of my own progesterone due to multiple follicles and to encourage a good lining. Progesterone supplementation was added as well.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Dottie and Wendy )
I’ve had the best experiences with the nursing staff. They are all kind and helpful. I always get a return call same day when I have a question and have never had someone treat my questions like they were silly. I’ve gotten to know the staff well in our years of treatment and know they genuinely care about us and are hopeful we will be successful soon!
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I can’t really say anything negative about this clinic. They are open everyday to support their patients. They have an excellent team of doctors, embryologists and nurses. The docs consult with each other as needed to insure they are providing the best care possible to their patients. They also work hard to stay up to date on new developments in infertility treatment. We travel 3 hours one way to see them and continue to go there even though we’re now closer to another clinic.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Last IVF freeze all cycle 2018 $12,250 with ICSI and biopsy for PGS. Meds $3,500 (high protocol). PGS $1,200. FET1 discounted 50% $1,650. Cash pricing.
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
eSET is recommended by our clinic for all PGS embryos due to the increased risks associated with twin pregnancies. They will transfer 2 if it’s something you feel strongly about (it was an option for us with RPL and our history). We have opted for an eSET each time.
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10
8
Age
29
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
5 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
PCOS, Tubal Blockage
10
8
I really enjoyed being under the care of Sahar Stephens. She was very warm and patient. ... We have done everything possible including treating my PCOS with a change in diet and exercise, seeing a fertility acupuncturist suggested by our clinic, and taking the required vitamins to improve our chances ... Dr. Stephens was always warm and patient when she performed our IUI insemination's.
Overall we have no complaints about this clinic [Northern California Fertility Medical Center]. I can't stress enough how important it is to ask questions about any step of the process you don't understand. Everyone is always patient and helpful ... We did not have any complaints regarding our nurse ... each cycle for the insemination and medication was about $3000.00. Which does not include donor sperm, acupuncture, and supplements.
Age
29
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
5 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
PCOS, Tubal Blockage
10
8
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens was always warm and patient when she performed our IUI insemination's. If we had questions in the office or if I emailed her she always answered all of our questions until we fully understood.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Don't be afraid to ask questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
I really enjoyed being under the care of Sahar Stephens. She was very warm and patient. Always answered all of our questions. But after 3 medicated IUI cycles at her clinic and a total of 5 IUI's during 2018 my partner and I are completely heart broken. We have done everything possible including treating my PCOS with a change in diet and exercise, seeing a fertility acupuncturist suggested by our clinic, and taking the required vitamins to improve our chances for success we still did not conceive.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
We were assuming that my right tube was blocked after having a hsg exam done. So we decided to do medicated cycles which included letrozole, gonal-f pen, and a trigger shot for my 3 IUI cycles. The first cycle resulted in 2 follicles on the right and 1 on the left, my second cycle resulted in 2 follicles on the left, and my third cycle resulted in 1 follicle on the left. The first two cycles we used the same sperm donor and the last cycle we used a different sperm donor.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Courtney)
We did not have any complaints regarding our nurse
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Overall we have no complaints about this clinic. I can't stress enough how important it is to ask questions about any step of the process you don't understand. Everyone is always patient and helpful
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
each cycle for the insemination and medication was about $3000.00. Which does not include donor sperm, acupuncture, and supplements.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
8
9
Age
28 - 29
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
8
9
Dr. Stephens is really personable and really takes the time to make sure you understand every step that will take place, and that you are comfortable with the decisions and process. She understands how emotionally taxing this process can be, and is very down to earth.... It’s an interesting concept at NCFMC, you don’t see your own doctor very often, and are treated by a team of doctors. Dr Stephens is personable and easy to talk to. I’ve mostly seen her for consultations and follow up appts, and she did my retrieval.
It’s an interesting concept at NCFMC, you don’t see your own doctor very often... Strengths- upfront about costs, close to my home, open everyday of the year, no batch testing or retrievals, on time with everything, very courteous front desk staff. Weaknesses- old interior, smaller office, can get backed up, hard to actually contact the doctors on the phone... As active duty military we paid 6800 for the retrieval, and 1650 for the FET.
Age
28 - 29
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
8
9
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
It’s an interesting concept at NCFMC, you don’t see your own doctor very often, and are treated by a team of doctors. Dr Stephens is personable and easy to talk to. I’ve mostly seen her for consultations and follow up appts, and she did my retrieval. As a patient, I always feel like I know what’s going to happen and what to expect which is a difficult thing in the fertility world. She answers her calls and emails in a timely matter, and is always willing to explain herself and why she feels a certain protocol is right for you.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Don’t expect to see her at every appt.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephens is really personable and really takes the time to make sure you understand every step that will take place, and that you are comfortable with the decisions and process. She understands how emotionally taxing this process can be, and is very down to earth.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
I was put on the average retrieval and ivf track for my first round. I did letrozole, gonal-F, menopur, centroide, and was triggered with hcg before my retrieval. That all went as predicted and we ended up with 9 frozen embryos.
My transfer cycle started as a stimulated cycle, with letrozole and gonal-F with estrogen suppositories, but my ovaries did not want to cooperate and I was switched over to a replacement cycle to include PIO and estrogen injections, as well as combination suppositories. They transferred a 5 day AB embryo. Unfortunately while the embryo implanted, it ended in an early miscarriage.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Courtney )
My nurse coordinator Courtney is well organized and keeps in good contact with you. The nursing staff is nice enough, but like everywhere there are good and bad ones. Some are good at blood draws, some aren’t.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Strengths- upfront about costs, close to my home, open everyday of the year, no batch testing or retrievals, on time with everything, very courteous front desk staff.
Weaknesses- old interior, smaller office, can get backed up, hard to actually contact the doctors on the phone
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
As active duty military we paid 6800 for the retrieval, and 1650 for the FET. Medications cost about 4000 altogether
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I was apprehensive about this. I wanted to transfer 2, but she wanted to do 1. We decided that this first transfer we would do one, but try two next time. She is worried about the chance of miscarriage and multiples.
What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
- Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
A few times we weren’t told about the upfront costs of certain tests, and then charged after the fact.
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10
10
Age
30
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis
10
10
Dr. Stephen's was incredible she puts herself in "your shoes" and says if I were you I would do this. She is a doctor with impeccable bedside manners! When we found out we were pregnant she seemed just as happy as we were. Previous doctors I have seen were not compassionate whatsoever and leaving to offices I told my husband I would not be returning because infact I felt like just a number or statistic!
This clinic [No Cal Fert Med Ctr] compared to others was a lot bigger, especially the waiting room. ... Their scheduling and the ladies and gentlemen at the front were all warm and welcoming. There was no need to feel awkward when walking in! ... My coordinator was incredible! She was so personable and made such a stressful experience exciting! She was there whenever I had the silliest of questions
Age
30
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
3rd of 3 Docs
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
I honestly have nothing bad to say about Dr. Stephens. The day we did our first ultrasound she unfortunately was not our Dr. We had another outstanding doctor, Dr. Murray who is just as warm and compassionate; Dr. Stephens made it a point to find us and congratulate us on top of it ensured she did our final Ultrasound with the clinic. She is incredible and can't wait to schedule our FET!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Advise I would give, to ensure you write all your questions down and bring something to write with! She will cover all your questions and some and you don't want to miss out of forget!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr. Stephen's was incredible she puts herself in "your shoes" and says if I were you I would do this. She is a doctor with impeccable bedside manners! When we found out we were pregnant she seemed just as happy as we were. Previous doctors I have seen were not compassionate whatsoever and leaving to offices I told my husband I would not be returning because infact I felt like just a number or statistic! We elected to pay all out of pocket instead of a location that insurance would cover just for Dr. Stephens!
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
I have endometriosis, I am unsure of the protocol. But she used the specific protocol because of my illness.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Erica, not sure her last name.)
My coordinator was incredible! She was so personable and made such a stressful experience exciting! She was there whenever I had the silliest of questions
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
This clinic compared to others was a lot bigger, especially the waiting room. The only thing I would suggest which would be extremely hard is to have at least one other restroom in the waiting room.
Their scheduling and the ladies and gentlemen at the front were all warm and welcoming. There was no need to feel awkward when walking in!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I can't remember specifics, we did do a loan and got the option for a fresh and frozen transfer which was roughly 10,900. All meds were paid out of pocket which I believe was 5,000, and I paid for ultrasounds and one lab to confirm pregnancy. Also prior to treatment I had a 600$ scan.
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
She gave her opinion but ultimately left the decision up to us. I liked that she didn't seem offended when we went against her advice, she was 100% supportive!
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8
10
Age
30
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS, Unexplained
8
10
She [Dr. Stephens] is a very nice person. She made me feel welcome as soon as I walked in. She was open to answering any and all questions and made sure to address any concerns that I had. I didn’t feel like I was being rushed through the appointment. She was very thorough in explaining all treatment options. ... She was very open about our fertility issues and our treatment options.
The clinics [NCFMC] biggest strength is the way they treat their patients. They are very kind, welcoming, and helpful. The clinics biggest weakness is call return times. They are not always prompt in returning patient phone calls. ... The nursing staff is always very friendly. Anytime I call or come in they are always very nice and very helpful. ... During my last cycle I had an unclear at home pregnancy test result. The clinic had me go in for bloodwork to test for pregnancy. They did not call with the results when they were supposed to.
Age
30
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS, Unexplained
8
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She is a very nice person. She made me feel welcome as soon as I walked in. She was open to answering any and all questions and made sure to address any concerns that I had. I didn’t feel like I was being rushed through the appointment. She was very thorough in explaining all treatment options.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Come in ready with any questions or concerns.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She was very kind from the get-go. She was very open about our fertility issues and our treatment options. She made me feel like I was in a safe environment and could talk openly. She doesn’t try to rush through appointments.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
Because I am still under 30, we decided to go with a treatment of femara, trigger injections, and timed intercourse. With my age this treatment is generally successful. While I have not had a successful pregnancy yet, I have had follicles mature and and ovulating, which was not happening before treatment.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nursing staff is always very friendly. Anytime I call or come in they are always very nice and very helpful.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
The clinics biggest strength is the way they treat their patients. They are very kind, welcoming, and helpful. The clinics biggest weakness is call return times. They are not always prompt in returning patient phone calls.
What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
- Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
During my last cycle I had an unclear at home pregnancy test result. The clinic had me go in for bloodwork to test for pregnancy. They did not call with the results when they were supposed to.
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8
9
Age
30
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained, Other
8
9
She [Dr. Stephens] was kind of cold at times when I was sensitive. ... She was very clinical. ... She didn't give me the hcg shot because she didn't want me to over stimulate. It was a mistake because the hcg trigger during my second egg retrieval gave me better results on number of good embryos. ...I'm glad she only transferred one ... Not very sensitive to my emotions at times but was a great doctor.
The regular nurses, not the IVF ones, were disorganized. Didn't call me back on time. I had to call many times until someone [No Cal Fert Med Ctr] called me back. Their strength is that once someone moved on to IVF, I felt like they were more organized and got back to me sooner when I had questions. The egg retrieval nurses were excellent. ... Not having my trigger shot during egg retrieval gave me bad egg quality. Only one out of eleven eggs was good enough to transfer. Nurses failed to call back sometimes. ...
Age
30
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
East Asian
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained, Other
8
9
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She was very clinical. Not very sensitive to my emotions at times but was a great doctor. I loved how she didn't want to over stimulate me during injections or didn't want me to get high risk twins even when I asked for it.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She does care even if she seem like she doesn't. She will get you pregnant!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She was kind of cold at times when I was sensitive. But she gave me the baby I wanted so I don't care much anymore.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
She didn't give me the hcg shot because she didn't want me to over stimulate. It was a mistake because the hcg trigger during my second egg retrieval gave me better results on number of good embryos.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Dottie)
Dottie was reliable and answered all my questions. She listened to me when I was feeling depressed. I felt like she truly cared.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
The regular nurses, not the IVF ones, were disorganized. Didn't call me back on time. I had to call many times until someone called me back. Their strength is that once someone moved on to IVF, I felt like they were more organized and got back to me sooner when I had questions. The egg retrieval nurses were excellent.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
We had to do 2 egg retrieval and pay for keeping our embryos frozen. About 40k total! Also did one round of IUI!
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I'm glad she only transferred one since twins are high risk!
What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
- Failed to call with results
- Failed to send your chart to another clinic
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Not having my trigger shot during egg retrieval gave me bad egg quality. Only one out of eleven eggs was good enough to transfer. Nurses failed to call back sometimes.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
8
5
Age
34 - 37
Treated
2014 - 2017
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
1 IUI, 1 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing, 1 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
—
8
5
Understanding and compassionate. Encouraging and thorough. But unfortunately couldn't get the procedure to work. [Dr. Stephens] Didnt really ever explain what my diagnosis was. Ordered better treatment options only after each failure. More aggressive approach the next time. We were unable to do a 4th round due to finances. Each round getting progressively more expensive.
Wait times were long. Staff [Northen California Fert Med Ctr] in front had a disconnect from staff in back. Front seemed like strictly office not much compassion or attention to remembering you from one visit to the next. Back staff nurses were patient kind and warm. Welcoming you and encouraging you for success. ... [Nurses] I felt abandoned when going through this and my nurse coordinator retired. ...
Age
34 - 37
Treated
2014 - 2017
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
Sales Representative
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 3 Docs
Treatment
1 IUI, 1 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing, 1 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
—
8
5
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Understanding and compassionate. Encouraging and thorough. But unfortunately couldn't get the procedure to work. Didnt really ever explain what my diagnosis was. Ordered better treatment options only after each failure. More aggressive approach the next time. We were unable to do a 4th round due to finances. Each round getting progressively more expensive.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Push for what you want. Be prepared they may not have all the answers and it may never work.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Patient calm and understanding . But couldnt explain why we were having multiple failed cycles.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: My nurse coordinator retired in the middle of my first cycle)
I felt abandoned when going through this and my nurse coordinator retired.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Wait times were long. Staff in front had a disconnect from staff in back. Front seemed like strictly office not much compassion or attention to remembering you from one visit to the next. Back staff nurses were patient kind and warm. Welcoming you and encouraging you for success.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
1 iui.. testing.. meds.. ultrasounds.. dr visits.. 1st round ivf.. 2nd round fet.. 3rd and 4th round fet.. credit card finance charges. All out of pocket..at least 50,000 plus
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
In the beginning with a fresh transfer she was pretty firm on 1 embryo transfer for the sole purpose of 1 successful cycle resulting in 1 healthy baby. When that didnt work we agreed on a transfer of 2 embryos for the next 2 unsuccessful cycles.
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10
10
Age
29 - 31
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
10 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Unexplained
10
10
Sahar Stephens at first was so blunt with the truth it hurt but after a hour or two conversation we left knowing it happens to a lot of couples and they are able to make it happen if everything was done properly. She comes off very quiet but she is very knowledgeable and loves what she does... She always made it personable. Even though she would give us the statistics she would always talk to us about us and how it will happen and sometimes it just takes some time.
The clinic [N. Cal Fertility Med Ctr] is very quiet and clean. The staff is very welcoming and entergetic. They are very quick so you won’t be left in the waiting room forever. I was nervous bringing my daughter in there around everyone who also is suffering but I came to realize they are the ones who help make her and I wanted people to see they can make this happen.... [Nurse] Replies very fast and very well educated
Age
29 - 31
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 5 Docs
Treatment
10 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Sahar Stephens at first was so blunt with the truth it hurt but after a hour or two conversation we left knowing it happens to a lot of couples and they are able to make it happen if everything was done properly. She comes off very quiet but she is very knowledgeable and loves what she does
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Go in with a open mind and don’t be upset if the answer you hear at first isn’t the one you wanted. They can work miracles and try to help everyone’s dreams come true
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She always made it personable. Even though she would give us the statistics she would always talk to us about us and how it will happen and sometimes it just takes some time.
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
I was on letrazole and entrace then a trigger shot 10000mg
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Kayla)
Replies very fast and very well educated
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
The clinic is very quiet and clean. The staff is very welcoming and entergetic. They are very quick so you won’t be left in the waiting room forever. I was nervous bringing my daughter in there around everyone who also is suffering but I came to realize they are the ones who help make her and I wanted people to see they can make this happen.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
Around 3500-4000
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10
10
Age
38 - 39
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Uterine Fibroids, Other
10
10
From the beginning she [Dr. Stepens\ has outlined exactly what route we should take. She suggested a uterine septum surgery which she performed & went over the procedure in detail with pictures in our post op appointment. ... She treats us like she is our friend explaining this process to us. She’s also very good at calling us back when we have questions. ... Dr Stephens takes the time to explain everything in a way I can understand
So far they [Northern California Fertility Medical Center] have been amazing. I have no complaints. When I leave a message in my portal they usually call & respond back via message within an hour or less. They then call back the following day to make sure I understand what they went over ... [Nursing staff] Caring & thoughtful ... She [doctor] suggested a uterine septum surgery ... $1600
Age
38 - 39
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Uterine Fibroids, Other
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She treats us like she is our friend explaining this process to us. She’s also very good at calling us back when we have questions. From the beginning she has outlined exactly what route we should take. She suggested a uterine septum surgery which she performed & went over the procedure in detail with pictures in our post op appointment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She is kind & very patient
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr Stephens takes the time to explain everything in a way I can understand
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
She wants ya to try IUI first because she has high hopes of that working first
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Caring & thoughtful
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
So far they have been amazing. I have no complaints. When I leave a message in my portal they usually call & respond back via message within an hour or less. They then call back the following day to make sure I understand what they went over
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
$1600
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10
10
Age
30 - 34
Treated
2015 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Male Factor
10
10
Dr Stephens is knowledgeable and caring. She always had the answers to my questions and concerns. She has amazing bedside manner and is very clear when explaining all information. I can not wait for my second IVF cycle! ... She was caring, gentle and very informative. I couldn’t ask for a better Doctor ... We transferred two embryos. One took. I’m glad we used that approach.
The location [No Cal Fert Med Ctr] is close to the freeway. Has very friendly office staff and is clean. I felt welcome and comfortable as a patient. They allow an acupuncturist to come treat you at the facility! They are also close to many resturants! ... Dotty [nurse] was always available and went out of her way to make sure I understood the process. ... I believe it was around $18,000 for one round of IVF
Age
30 - 34
Treated
2015 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Male Factor
10
10
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Dr Stephens is knowledgeable and caring. She always had the answers to my questions and concerns. She has amazing bedside manner and is very clear when explaining all information. I can not wait for my second IVF cycle!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Go to that office!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She was caring, gentle and very informative. I couldn’t ask for a better Doctor
Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.
We used IVF with ICSI. When my ovaries weren’t responding we upped the medication. Kept progressing and now I have my two year old.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Dotty)
Dotty was always available and went out of her way to make sure I understood the process. She was sent from God
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
The location is close to the freeway. Has very friendly office staff and is clean. I felt welcome and comfortable as a patient. They allow an acupuncturist to come treat you at the facility! They are also close to many resturants!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
I believe it was around $18,000 for one round of IVF
Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
We transferred two embryos. One took. I’m glad we used that approach.
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8
8
Age
35
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
4 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
PCOS
8
8
She [Dr. Stephens] was understanding and compassionate. She has a great bedside manner. When I was frsutrated in not getting pregnant the first couple trys she listened and adjusted course. She did not ever make me feel like I was just a number, she remembered things that I had shared with her and would ask at the next visit as a follow up. ... She was patient and answered every question and concern, no matter how many times I asked.
They [No Cal Fert Med Ctr] are located in a hidden spot by the freeway. The whole staff if great and so knowledgeable. I was nervous starting that journey and they made me feel comfortable and appreciated. They not only paid attention to me but also made my husband feel important also. ... They [nursing staff] were great. The team is always upbeat and happy to see you.
Age
35
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
4 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
PCOS
8
8
How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She was understanding and compassionate. She has a great bedside manner. When I was frsutrated in not getting pregnant the first couple trys she listened and adjusted course. She did not ever make me feel like I was just a number, she remembered things that I had shared with her and would ask at the next visit as a follow up.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
Speak up and ask questions, she's happy to walk you through it.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?
She was patient and answered every question and concern, no matter how many times I asked.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
They were great. The team is always upbeat and happy to see you.
Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
They are located in a hidden spot by the freeway. The whole staff if great and so knowledgeable. I was nervous starting that journey and they made me feel comfortable and appreciated. They not only paid attention to me but also made my husband feel important also.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.
My insurance does not cover the treatment so I paid out of pocket.
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