This is the most recent data from the CDC. The CDC cautions that it should not be used to compare doctors and clinics. This data represents the outcomes of IVF cycles when using a person's own eggs.
For more information please see our FAQs.
Where you see a “?” on the chart, a clinic has done fewer than 20 cycles in this category and age range, so the CDC says showing percentages from this small data set would be misleading and unreliable.
I have seen Dr. Christensen only twice in all my visits. I have had close to 15 visits now. I seem to have a new physician every visit and they don’t seem very well versed in my charts to tell me what’s going on or what’s going to happen next. Every appointment seems rushed and they are almost always running behind schedule. I feel like it’s hurry up and get in and on so they can move to the next patient as fast as possible.
I honestly can’t say there is a true strength of this clinic [Sanford Reproductive Medicine]. There are many weaknesses. They don’t protect your privacy. They don’t listen to your concerns or questions. They prescribe the basic regimen and if that doesn’t work they don’t try something else. They push for IVF even though they have never run any testing to explain infertility.
How was your experience with Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
I saw Dr. Christensen only on my consultation and one visit after that. I don’t see him or hear from him. If I message him it’s alway a staff member that gets back to me. The consultation went good but it went down hill after that.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Do your research on different clinics before coming here. I am from out of town and they schedule my appointments all over the place. I have been to three different locations now because they don’t fit me in very well. You might only see the Dr once or twice in total over the course of a year, everything else is done by his staff. Questions don’t get answered in very good detail, if they get answered at all. If there is one thing about you that isn’t average, they won’t take that into consideration. Everything is by the book and old school. Not much for new practice and not great bed side manners. Feels like your always annoying them if you have questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
I have seen Dr. Christensen only twice in all my visits. I have had close to 15 visits now. I seem to have a new physician every visit and they don’t seem very well versed in my charts to tell me what’s going on or what’s going to happen next. Every appointment seems rushed and they are almost always running behind schedule. I feel like it’s hurry up and get in and on so they can move to the next patient as fast as possible.
Describe the protocols Steffen Christensen used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
I have went though 6 medicated cycles with his team and 3 IUIs. One ultrasound for each cycle. It’s like throwing a dart at a dart board for timing my cycles. They haven’t had one cycle correct on timing yet. I have been having 50 day cycles and ovulating on day 8 of my cycle. The meds they have had me on only made my body loose it normal cycle and ovulation times. They switched up my cycle meds a few different times and each time it only got worse. They tried IUIs thinking that would help and it didn’t do anything. My lining and egg size has only gone down hill since going to the clinic.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Nurses were very rude. They rushed you in and out as fast as possible. There wasn’t a lot of privacy either when it came to being there. They left door open. They even once sent me someone else results on accident. Not professional at all.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
I honestly can’t say there is a true strength of this clinic. There are many weaknesses. They don’t protect your privacy. They don’t listen to your concerns or questions. They prescribe the basic regimen and if that doesn’t work they don’t try something else. They push for IVF even though they have never run any testing to explain infertility.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Most medicated cycle meds where about $200 a cycle plus ultrasound. My ultrasounds where covered under my insurance. Then the IUIs are about $1,000 out of pocket, none where covered under my insurance. I will not be doing IFV with this clinic but the paperwork said it was around $15,000-$17,000.
What specific things went wrong at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost appointments
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Lost results
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Failed to consider drug intolerance
Canceled a cycle due to clinic error
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Lack of privacy. Lack of getting the correct meds sent to the correct pharmacy. Sending me to wrong locations for the appointments. Running behind every time.
With Dr. Hansen, most times during the treatment process, he truly made us feel like a human...ease our anxiety. He genuinely cared for what you had to say and would tailor our treatments how he could to both please us and to have the best outcomes possible....always open to trying different tests or options but we would always first discuss the pros and cons.
Sanford is always timely in getting back to me whether it be about my cycle, a bill, or any lab results. They are effective in their communication skills and they are very trustworthy. Stacy, the receptionist, always recognizes me and my husband immediately and it is so refreshing to have her be the first one to greet me. The weaknesses would probably just include the fact that our community is smaller so they have less resources for some of the testing which can get in the way at times.
How was your experience with Keith Hansen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
From the start of meeting Dr. Hansen, we had a lot of trust with him. He has a way of entering the room and helping to ease any anxiety you may have. Our treatment course included 4 IUIs, 1 FET with unfortunately no success yet. Even though we haven't had the outcome that we of course are looking for, we have trust in Dr. Hansen that we will meet that outcome. Dr. Hansen's strengths include his ease with communication, his experience with so many different types of patients, his sense of humor to help calm the room, and his all around trustworthiness. In regards to his weaknesses, we can honestly say we have not seen any weaknesses from him thus far which is always comforting.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Keith Hansen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Do your own research. There were of course times that I would bring up other tests or treatment options that I had researched online and that had not been presented to me in our clinic. Dr. Hansen was always open to trying different tests or options but we would always first discuss the pros and cons.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Keith Hansen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
With Dr. Hansen, most times during the treatment process, he truly made us feel like a human. He would walk into the room with a big smile and he of course always had jokes to tell us to help ease our anxiety. He genuinely cared for what you had to say and would tailor our treatments how he could to both please us and to have the best outcomes possible.
Describe the protocols Keith Hansen used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
With our 4 IUIs, each time we increased my medication protocol to increase our chances. There was one month that we were on track to having an IUI done but we had too many follicles that matured and Dr. Hansen didn't feel comfortable with the high risk of multiples that could occur. Our clinic advised us to not pursue the IUI for that month and to also not try naturally to conceive. We did perform our trigger shot so that we would not have numerous cysts form from the follicles not releasing the eggs. Despite Dr. Hansen's advice to not progress further, we ended up doing our trigger shot and tried naturally for the month. We did end up getting pregnant (most likely with multiples based on how high my HCG was) but it resulted in a chemical pregnancy. It was a hard loss so I can definitely see why we were advised not to try on our own.
Months later we had an egg retrieval done with Dr. Hansen. We ended up getting excellent results with the medication protocol we were put on and it resulted in 18 embryos frozen. The goal at the beginning was to have a fresh transfer done but with my PCOS diagnosis, we ended up having way more follicles than anticipated. With the risk of ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome, we were advised to just end the egg retrieval in a freeze all. We then transferred one embryo a couple months later which unfortunately ended in a miscarriage.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Sanford Reproductive Medicine. (Assigned nurse: Amy, RN- for IVF purposes)
Amy, RN is the one we have primarily been in communication with when it comes to our IVF cycles. She is one of the most compassionate nurses I have ever met. She truly cares for our journey and has never treated us like a number. Amy is always willing to discuss anything and never rushes me when I have a million questions to ask her. Amy was on the phone with me when she told us we were going to miscarry with our IVF transfer. I began to cry but immediately also wanted to know next steps. She was so compassionate about our loss and took the time to acknowledge what we had lost but was also very open to discussing what next steps were.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The strengths of Sanford's fertility clinic are numerous. They are heavily relied on due to there not being another option to fall back on unless you are willing to travel out of state. Sanford is always timely in getting back to me whether it be about my cycle, a bill, or any lab results. They are effective in their communication skills and they are very trustworthy. Stacy, the receptionist, always recognizes me and my husband immediately and it is so refreshing to have her be the first one to greet me.
The weaknesses would probably just include the fact that our community is smaller so they have less resources for some of the testing which can get in the way at times.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
For ultrasound monitoring appointments, Sanford was efficient but they didn't make it feel like they were rushing you on your way. They always took their time to be thorough and they are very well versed in their duties.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Keith Hansen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
IUI treatment cycles cost roughly $3100 (with medications)
IVF retrieval and fresh transfer cost roughly $20,000 (with medications)
IVF frozen transfer cost roughly $4,500-7,000 (7,000 if you had to redo additionally testing such as SIS or TET)
Describe Keith Hansen's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
For our first embryo transfer we had a very lengthy discussion about this with Dr. Hansen. Based on my age and the fact that we had conceived naturally one time, we made a joint decision to only transfer one day 5 4AA embryo. We do not regret that decision even though it resulted in a miscarriage. Next transfer, we have decided we want to attempt transferring two embryos simply to increase our chances. Dr. Hansen was very supportive for both cases.
they [Dr. Tiffany Von Wald] explained every part of the procedure, made sure you felt comfortable, explained the risks, and made sure you had a thorough understanding of what to expect...For my PCOS I was put on metFORMIN, Levothyroxine, and a few vitamins that I continue taking. I took Follistim 100mg and Menopur 1 vial for several days, I became overstimulated and had to travel to Sioux Falls, reduce the medication amount by 50%, and be monitored closely for the rest of the visits
They [Sanford Reproductive Medicine nurses] explained everything, were friendly, easy to talk to, and had an overall positive outlook. They were quick to respond to any message and made you feel welcome...The staff was amazing! The clinic, however, I have some notes. The billing system could use some work, it was hard to estimate how much you were actually going to spend as a lot of the estimates were incorrect. We get bills months after anything was completed, it's hard to tell what you are getting charged for. In the beginning, they didn't send it to insurance so that was frustrating.
How was your experience with Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr. Von Wald and her partner Dr. Hansen were great, they explained every part of the procedure, made sure you felt comfortable, explained the risks, and made sure you had a thorough understanding of what to expect.
I was only able to go as far as the egg retrieval due to COVID-19, and so far I haven't experienced any negative aspects of these doctors up to this point.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Infertility is a hard road to travel, we all know that because we are experiencing it right now. This facility understands that, the doctors are compassionate and experienced.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Everyone at the Sanford clinic is beyond friendly, they know your name when you walk in the down even if you have never been there before. They are thorough with all their explanations and very quick to get back to you on any communication. The doctors, nurses, and office staff give you the impression that they really care about you and want a positive outcome just as much as you do.
Describe the protocols Tiffany Von Wald used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
For my PCOS I was put on metFORMIN, Levothyroxine, and a few vitamins that I continue taking. I took Follistim 100mg and Menopur 1 vial for several days, I became overstimulated and had to travel to Sioux Falls, reduce the medication amount by 50%, and be monitored closely for the rest of the visits. The rationale was to make sure I didn't get Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Amy and Katie were excellent! They explained everything, were friendly, easy to talk to, and had an overall positive outlook. They were quick to respond to any message and made you feel welcome
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The staff was amazing! The clinic, however, I have some notes. The billing system could use some work, it was hard to estimate how much you were actually going to spend as a lot of the estimates were incorrect. We get bills months after anything was completed, it's hard to tell what you are getting charged for. In the beginning, they didn't send it to insurance so that was frustrating.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
10,000
Describe Tiffany Von Wald's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
I wasn't given a lot of information as to what would be better after PGS testing, single or double, but that could also be because I haven't completed the transfer yet due to COVID19 delays.
She [Dr. Von Wald] takes time with me and my husband, answers all our questions, is timely, shows compassion, and is extremely positive and hopeful. She is quick to respond to phone questions and never makes us feel like our questions are silly...My husbands semen analysis was pretty good, but had some room for improvement, so she recommended some vitamins he take...She looked me in the eyes, took time with me, explained and reexplained, and answered all my questions.
[The nurses at Sanford Reproductive Medicine are] So very kind, uplifting and positive!...We opted for the genetic testing for our demand analysis. When the results came in, we were informed via the automated app, instead of a nurse calling us... is clean, prompt, kind, positive, smiley and thorough. During your initial assessment, you’ll meet with doctor, genetic testing department, and the billing department. They lay out everything for you and answer every single questions.
How was your experience with Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
She takes time with me and my husband, answers all our questions, is timely, shows compassion, and is extremely positive and hopeful. She is quick to respond to phone questions and never makes us feel like our questions are silly.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Your time with her is your time! Make sure you use it and get all your questions answered. She will stay and answer them all!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
She looked me in the eyes, took time with me, explained and reexplained, and answered all my questions.
Describe the protocols Tiffany Von Wald used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
My husbands semen analysis was pretty good, but had some room for improvement, so she recommended some vitamins he take. We started those immediately in February (and then COVID hit). In May for me, we did 5mg of letrozole for 5 days (cd3-7). On cd11, I came back for a follow up ultrasound and confirmed 3 mature follicles (16mm, 19mm and 22mm) and a uterine lining of 9.8mm. They then administered my HCG trigger shot. We came back the next day for insemination. They wanted >1 million motile sperm and we’re able to inject 16 million. I am now in my 2ww and am on a vaginal progesterone.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
So very kind, uplifting and positive!
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Sanford clinic in Sioux Falls is clean, prompt, kind, positive, smiley and thorough. During your initial assessment, you’ll meet with doctor, genetic testing department, and the billing department. They lay out everything for you and answer every single questions.
What specific things went wrong at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
We opted for the genetic testing for our demand analysis. When the results came in, we were informed via the automated app, instead of a nurse calling us.
Dr. Hansen was great at explaining everything with compassion in a way which you can understand and did a great job of outlining what would be involved in treatment and how each step worked. He was great at answering both my questions and my husbands also. He never let me feel like I was going to spend thousands of dollars on a "hope." He gave me insightful information that helped me feel more hopeful about my chance to conceive.
The clinic [Sanford Reproductive Medicine] is well organized and a caring friendly environment. Any questions you go in with will be answered to the best of their ability before you leave, so dont hesitate to ask! Everyone you come in to contact with greets you with a smile and makes you feel like a priority...New patient labs... $943 Ovarian function test $578 Assessment of fallopian tubes $2,891 Video visit $59 Seman Analysid $175 SCSA $320 Office visits $184 Ultrasounds $193 Estradiol labs $165 each Progesterone $124 each.
How was your experience with Keith Hansen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr. Hansen was great at explaining everything with compassion in a way which you can understand and did a great job of outlining what would be involved in treatment and how each step worked. He was great at answering both my questions and my husbands also. He never let me feel like I was going to spend thousands of dollars on a "hope." He gave me insightful information that helped me feel more hopeful about my chance to conceive
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Keith Hansen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Doctor Hansen has many years of experience and he cares for his patience so listen to what he has to say and do your best to ask any questions you have because he will explain the answers well in a way you will understand.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Keith Hansen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
I never felt like a number during his care, but hope to be another one of his successful numbers!
Describe the protocols Keith Hansen used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
At this time due to COVID-19 there are no treatments being done but Dr. HANSEN is great about helping us get everything we can do done during this time.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The nursing staff is kind and caring and great at communicating your needs.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The clinic is well organized and a caring friendly environment. Any questions you go in with will be answered to the best of their ability before you leave, so dont hesitate to ask! Everyone you come in to contact with greets you with a smile and makes you feel like a priority.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Keith Hansen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
New patient labs... $943
Ovarian function test $578
Assessment of fallopian tubes $2,891
Video visit $59
Seman Analysid $175
SCSA $320
Office visits $184
Ultrasounds $193
Estradiol labs $165 each
Progesterone $124 each
Describe Keith Hansen's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
We have met with her [Dr. Tiffany Von Wald]once before as she did our IUI procedure and then had a consult with her for our 2nd try with fertility doctoring. Right away I felt she was ready to get down to business as I had already tried the meds and other procedures. She was willing to listen to our plan of action and agreed with our decision. She is very compassionate and determined to help us achieve pregnancy...
[Sanford Reproductive Medicine has] Friendly front desk staff who keeps our information private, ultrasound techs are professional and answers questions about findings , lab is quick to get me in and out. Overall a very nice place to help us achieve a pregnancy. Clean and well set up...IUI was around $700 Visits are $150-$200..
How was your experience with Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
We have met with her once before as she did our IUI procedure and then had a consult with her for our 2nd try with fertility doctoring. Right away I felt she was ready to get down to business as I had already tried the meds and other procedures. She was willing to listen to our plan of action and agreed with our decision. She is very compassionate and determined to help us achieve pregnancy.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
This was our 2nd time giving Sanford a try as we took a break and went to another facility and came back being treated as a human with focusing on me and my infertility issues.
Describe the protocols Tiffany Von Wald used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
I went back on Myo-inositol and cinnamon as well as metformin. She gave suggestions for vitamins for my husband to try as well.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Very sweet and friendly nursing staff. Always smiling and ready to listen. They are fast in responding to questions.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Friendly front desk staff who keeps our information private, ultrasound techs are professional and answers questions about findings , lab is quick to get me in and out. Overall a very nice place to help us achieve a pregnancy. Clean and well set up
Describe the costs associated with your care under Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Dr Von Wald was considerate and caring at my initial visit for testing and workup...She was hopeful in iui working as we had no visible issues for not conceiving, very accommodating to my husband's travel work schedule, explained different things we could try. Vitamins, antioxidants, etc...took her time to go over all testing and possible procedures, didn't feel rushed, made it personal and felt cared about.
The nurses [at Sanford Reproductive Medicine] seemed great from the little I have been at the clinic. Very quick to respond via app or phone with answers...Only frustration was trying to figure out insurance,, I had trouble getting answers, but the financial advisor with the clinic was able to get answers and help a ton...very accommodating to my husband's travel work schedule, explained different things we could try. Vitamins, antioxidants, etc.
How was your experience with Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr Von Wald was considerate and caring at my initial visit for testing and workup. We didn't get to go further into iui, etc as covid happened and halted all elective procedures. She was hopeful in iui working as we had no visible issues for not conceiving, very accommodating to my husband's travel work schedule, explained different things we could try. Vitamins, antioxidants, etc.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Have something to take notes as alot of info and hard to remember everything. Have questions written too as I was anxious and can't always remember what I wanted to ask. She is very kind and takes the time to answer questions!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
The Dr took her time to go over all testing and possible procedures, didn't feel rushed, made it personal and felt cared about.
Describe the protocols Tiffany Von Wald used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
I was only able to get testing done before covid happened, she did all the typical tests, blood work, ultrasound, was going to do hsg test but have to wait. Was going to do iui with meds to induce ovulation. Still planning on this after covid calms down and can resume elective procedures.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The nurses seemed great from the little I have been at the clinic. Very quick to respond via app or phone with answers.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The clinic is great, only went once as unable to continue procedures at this time due to covid. Take notes, ask questions. Only frustration was trying to figure out insurance,, I had trouble getting answers, but the financial advisor with the clinic was able to get answers and help a ton.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
We have really good insurance so specialist copay was $40, all the testing and blood work ran about $400, plus $300 for husband. We were told iui would be covered by insurance after deductable was met.
Dr. Hansen is thorough, warm, and empathetic. He spends ample time reviewing information in a complete and understandable manner. He is knowledgeable and nonjudgmental...he is the one I prefer and trust most...Letrozole (7.5mg) and Menopur before trigger shot and IUI. 2/4 IUI resulted in pregnancy, but unfortunately both resulted in miscarriage. Dr. Hansen conducted extensive testing (blood work, endometrial biopsy) related to the losses, but all results were appropriate.
The wait for an initial appointment [at Sanford Reproductive Medicine] can be lengthy. The clinic is conveniently located and labs are completed there. The nurses are not flexible with protocols, so it may be best to escalate messages or other requests directly to providers...Come with questions and expect them to be answered fully and completely...
How was your experience with Keith Hansen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr. Hansen is thorough, warm, and empathetic. He spends ample time reviewing information in a complete and understandable manner. He is knowledgeable and nonjudgmental. Of all of the providers in the clinic, he is the one I prefer and trust most.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Keith Hansen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Come with questions and expect them to be answered fully and completely.
Describe the protocols Keith Hansen used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
Letrozole (7.5mg) and Menopur before trigger shot and IUI. 2/4 IUI resulted in pregnancy, but unfortunately both resulted in miscarriage. Dr. Hansen conducted extensive testing (blood work, endometrial biopsy) related to the losses, but all results were appropriate.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The wait for an initial appointment can be lengthy. The clinic is conveniently located and labs are completed there. The nurses are not flexible with protocols, so it may be best to escalate messages or other requests directly to providers.
What specific things went wrong at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr. Von Wald has a warm demeanor...She will answer any questions you may have about treatment plans or any concerns you have. I had an unsuccessful second embryo transfer. Dr. Von Wald called me with the news...[she]did not recommend more than two embryos transferred at a time...She explained options to try for a baby again and gave me her recommendations for the best course of treatment.
[nurse of Sanford Reproductive Medicine] She explained procedures and injections to my husband and me. She even marked where each injection should be placed...The whole IVF cycle with meds, ultrasounds, egg retrieval, and transfer was approximately $20000. The second transfer was approximately $5000...The billing side of things is probably the biggest weakness. They warn you that you have to pay a large amount before you do the procedure but we kept getting bills for things that should have been paid for already.
How was your experience with Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr. Von Wald has a warm demeanor. She is professional but not stuffy. She will answer any questions you may have about treatment plans or any concerns you have. I had an unsuccessful second embryo transfer. Dr. Von Wald called me with the news. She was kind, compassionate, and forthcoming. She explained options to try for a baby again and gave me her recommendations for the best course of treatment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Make sure you ask questions if you have any. It’s so important to fully understand everything you’ll be going through. Dr. Von Wald is so knowledgeable and kind.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
The doctor and staff always made sure both me and my husband understood the upcoming procedures. They were quick to respond to concerns I had. I never felt uneasy asking questions.
Describe the protocols Tiffany Von Wald used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
I did Lupron and Gonal-F injections prior to my egg retrieval. I had regular lab work as well as ultrasounds. I had to have a hysteroscopy due to a polyp on my uterus before I could do my first embryo transfer so I wasn’t able to do a fresh embryo transfer. Leading up to the transfer I was prescribed estrogen patches and progesterone injections as well as a progesterone pills. These were to be continued to support pregnancy through the first trimester.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Sanford Reproductive Medicine. (Assigned nurse: Kati)
Kati is very knowledgeable. She explained procedures and injections to my husband and me. She even marked where each injection should be placed. She has always been very fast at responding to any electronic messages I send as well.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The front desk lady is so sweet and welcoming. The waiting area is very calming. The office itself is inside of the hospital I got a little lost the first time I visited. The billing side of things is probably the biggest weakness. They warn you that you have to pay a large amount before you do the procedure but we kept getting bills for things that should have been paid for already.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
They wanted you to have a balance under $500 (I think). The whole IVF cycle with meds, ultrasounds, egg retrieval, and transfer was approximately $20000. The second transfer was approximately $5000.
Describe Tiffany Von Wald's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
My doctor did not recommend more than two embryos transferred at a time.
He [Dr. Steffen Christensen] was straight forward, helpful and made me feel like my concerns were heard and met. He made sure that we got more information on my endometriosis and what further issues I might have from that...definitely felt like we had hope of conceiving...Trigger shot of Ovidrel and then timed intercourse. They believe that doing this will result in pregnancy and don't want to be too aggressive because I do have one working side.
[The nurses at Sanford Reproductive Medicine are] Wonderful, responsive and full of compassion. Also willing to answer the most mundane questions one could possibly come up with, and I definitely did...I see a remote clinic in Thief River Falls, MN for 90% of my treatments, diagnostics etc. which can be difficult because I'm around babies and pregnant women all the time. But their team is great with Telemed and have me in within a few minutes and out the door back to work in a great time frame. Living in a rural area having the remote clinic has been a life saver for travel time.
How was your experience with Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
He was straight forward, helpful and made me feel like my concerns were heard and met. He made sure that we got more information on my endometriosis and what further issues I might have from that. That we were in good hands, and definitely felt like we had hope of conceiving.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Be prepared to see everyone on the fertility team, but know that they all care and are really thoughtful when it comes to treatments/procedures and everything. Also that their entire team is dedicated to you, and great at responding!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
I am under Christensen, but I have seen every member of their fertility team and have been impressed with their compassion and helpfulness.
Describe the protocols Steffen Christensen used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
I have one tube and an ovary on the missing tube side that likes to produce eggs more than the side that's completely healthy and working. We went with Femara/Letrozole 5mg for 5 days on CD5-CD10 to get follicles growing, checking their growth on CD10-CD14 depending on when my cycle falls. Trigger shot of Ovidrel and then timed intercourse. They believe that doing this will result in pregnancy and don't want to be too aggressive because I do have one working side.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Wonderful, responsive and full of compassion. Also willing to answer the most mundane questions one could possibly come up with, and I definitely did.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The Fargo clinic is truly a wonderful safe place. They don't allow children and that is really helpful knowing the sensitivity of the situation at hand. I see a remote clinic in Thief River Falls, MN for 90% of my treatments, diagnostics etc. which can be difficult because I'm around babies and pregnant women all the time. But their team is great with Telemed and have me in within a few minutes and out the door back to work in a great time frame. Living in a rural area having the remote clinic has been a life saver for travel time.
She [Dr. Cain] always took notes, remembered who we were at appointments, looked up things if needed, was very thorough in her explanations and went over a treatment plan with options and allowing us to choose versus telling us what to do....since I was having a regular cycle we opted out of medications and did natural cycle. She was open to doing things how we wanted...We only met with a nurse once otherwise is was Dr. Cain that did most of the stuff with us
[Sanford Reproductive Medicine] Has a quite and calm feel, different from the hustle and bustle of a regular clinic. The financial consultant is kind of out in the open with just a small make shift wall for a barrier which I feel would be nice to know if needed to talk to them. I feel like it’s not very private for the people having conversations with her, I can always hear the conversations while I wait. Children are also not allowed in the building, also nice to know before appointments
How was your experience with Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
She’s a genuine person and shows compassion. She explains things well and usually remembered who we were at each appointment. She was great with our IUI and explained outcomes and have the knowledge base to answer questions. She was also very experienced in her line of work. The only downfall is that she is leaving the clinic. However, she did make sure to tell us in person before we got the mail notification.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Have questions ready at your consult appointment and be ready for lots of testing even if your OBGYN has started baseline testing, they will likely re do it all.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
She always took notes, remembered who we were at appointments, looked up things if needed, was very thorough in her explanations and went over a treatment plan with options and allowing us to choose versus telling us what to do.
Describe the protocols Kristen Cain used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
She allowed us to choose and since I was having a regular cycle we opted out of medications and did natural cycle. She was open to doing things how we wanted.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
We only met with a nurse once otherwise is was Dr. Cain that did most of the stuff with us. The staff that did our rooming process were kind and just asked a bunch of questions. I have spoken a lot over email and phone to the nurses more often then in person. They are extremely kind and have a great way of showing compassion over the phone when giving out less desirable news. They are quick to respond and call in a timely manner with results.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
It’s a very nice clinic. Has a quite and calm feel, different from the hustle and bustle of a regular clinic. The financial consultant is kind of out in the open with just a small make shift wall for a barrier which I feel would be nice to know if needed to talk to them. I feel like it’s not very private for the people having conversations with her, I can always hear the conversations while I wait. Children are also not allowed in the building, also nice to know before appointments.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
I think costs are all very similar from clinic to clinic. We have some insurance coverage but still paid a majority out of pocket I feel. Labs have cost about 200-400, baseline testing was around 200, I had a saline sonogram which was about 400 and our IUI was close to 500. Like I said these are all estimates and with some insurance coverage.
Describe Kristen Cain's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
She [Dr. Von Wald] was compassionate and patient. I would guess, like most doctors, she receives a lot of the same questions on a day to day basis but she was always willing to take the time to answer any and all of them. I never felt rushed out of the office and my husband and I were never overly stressed throughout the experience (so far)...She gave us expectations based on the history of the hospital and everything held true in terms of statistics. I was very impressed with how dialed in the numbers were. She was compassionate and patient.
They [staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine] are very thorough and polite. We are treated in a very professional manner but also with compassion. That, in my mind, is a fine line to walk at times and they do a good job of it...Some had even been through the process themselves so they were able to give advice only someone who had been through the process could give. They were polite, efficient, gentle- overall exceptional...I do not have exact numbers in front of me but the IUI was about $5,000 and the IVF process is around $22,000 (depending on genetic testing- which we chose not to do)
How was your experience with Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr Von Wald is very thorough, practiced and specific. She gave us expectations based on the history of the hospital and everything held true in terms of statistics. I was very impressed with how dialed in the numbers were. She was compassionate and patient. I would guess, like most doctors, she receives a lot of the same questions on a day to day basis but she was always willing to take the time to answer any and all of them. I never felt rushed out of the office and my husband and I were never overly stressed throughout the experience (so far).
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Come prepared and do some research beforehand. A lot of people have gone through these appointments and are very open about their experiences.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr Von Wald and the nurses do a wonderful job. They are very thorough and polite. We are treated in a very professional manner but also with compassion. That, in my mind, is a fine line to walk at times and they do a good job of it.
Describe the protocols Tiffany Von Wald used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
Oofta- there are so many: We started with some medications for both my husband and myself. We tried IUI with no luck. We then decided to abandon the IUI option and moved to the IVF process. My husband treated a small tumor in his pituitary gland to help his motility (related to testosterone levels) with medication (sorry I do not remember the name of it). I was given lots of shots in order to produce eggs and then we did the retrieval and were able to freeze 2 eggs. We will be doing implantation next week (hopefully). I am happy to have a conversation as the treatment is A LOT to try and remember and type haha.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
They were fantastic. Some had even been through the process themselves so they were able to give advice only someone who had been through the process could give. They were polite, efficient, gentle- overall exceptional.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Knowledgable, efficient, and very professional. They are specialists and we never doubted the care we would get. However, it is extremely expensive at this location and we didn't have any other options. Our closest second option is Minneapolis and that is 4 hours away. ALMOST close enough to make it worth the time to save almost half the cost.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
I do not have exact numbers in front of me but the IUI was about $5,000 and the IVF process is around $22,000 (depending on genetic testing- which we chose not to do)
Describe Tiffany Von Wald's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
My husband wanted to try both eggs (for twins) but we were discouraged from doing so. I think it was considered less safe for myself and the potential babies.
She was the first doctor who took the time and let us ask every question we had. During our first consultation we were able to be with her for over an hour, she made us feel very comfortable. ... But, I did feel like Dr. Dahl led us in the wrong direction. After getting another opinion/consultation about our Male Factor portion we were told that we should not have been continuing with IUIs. I felt like if we were given the raw facts we could have saved our money to go towards a treatment with a higher chance of a positive outcome.
I wish the clinic [Sanford Reproductive Medicine] employees (receptionists) realize a lot of things are time sensitive and not all patients have the same protocol/challenges. I felt like receptionist often tried to give recommendations that should have been made by nurses. ... When we decided to start our treatment again we were told we were going to start that month from the first nurse. A week later the second nurse told us that we would only monitor that cycle. It was very frustrating that the nurses were not in the same page.
How was your experience with Stephanie Dahl at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
She was the first doctor who took the time and let us ask every question we had. During our first consultation we were able to be with her for over an hour, she made us feel very comfortable. Our first doctor consulted Dr.Dahl during our treatments, it was nice to have both doctors talking with each other. But, I did feel like Dr. Dahl led us in the wrong direction. After getting another opinion/consultation about our Male Factor portion we were told that we should not have been continuing with IUIs. I felt like if we were given the raw facts we could have saved our money to go towards a treatment with a higher chance of a positive outcome.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Stephanie Dahl at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Ask her to be a little more blunt. Do not sugar coat the facts.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Stephanie Dahl at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
I had a fairly good experience, but very rarely did we get to be seen by Dr.Dahl. Rather, I was generally seen by the other doctors in the clinic.
Describe the protocols Stephanie Dahl used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
I felt like she never personalizes a plan to me, rather what ever partner I saw that day I went in their protocol. One month I was on Leterzole, and one month I was on chlomid. I was on estradiol and progesterone with my previous doctor. Dr. Dahl did not continue with that protocol, and we did not see any improvement from not being on them.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
When we decided to start our treatment again we were told we were going to start that month from the first nurse. A week later the second nurse told us that we would only monitor that cycle. It was very frustrating that the nurses were not in the same page.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
I wish the clinic employees (receptionists) realize a lot of things are time sensitive and not all patients have the same protocol/challenges. I felt like receptionist often tried to give recommendations that should have been made by nurses.
The clinic did a fairly good job making everyone feel welcome!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Stephanie Dahl at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
One IUI generally cost around $5000. I was seen at a Satellite clinic as the clinic was 4 hours away, so my cost could be widely different from what they would have been if I were to do everything at her clinic.
Describe Stephanie Dahl's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
N/A
What specific things went wrong at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
I was dealing with 2 different. Years and they were on 2 complete different pages. It became frustrating when I got my hopes thinking I was going to be able to start a cycle, to only be told the next week I would only be monitored that cycle. I wish I could have had 1 Assigned nurse
Just didn’t seem like she [Dr. Kristen Cain] was on top of her game with my meds and the dosing and then she wasn’t the best about ordering follow up test for me. When we went for our first consult she seemed great but more and more each visit It felt less and less like that first consult visit...We saw her for 7 iui’s plus other visits for one year and she never once pronounced our last name correctly. There where times she didn’t even know what meds I was doing that round
[Sanford Reproductive Medicine has] a nice building. You are able to do some tests at other facilities and have them sent to Fargo. It is in it nice private little area. No kids at clinic nice feature. It’s a nice cozy clinic doesn’t feel much like a clinic waiting room...The nurses at Sanford were awesome! Very prompt at returning phone calls. And very friendly and always wished you good luck and had words of encouragement...Had a day where no one called me with my lab results
How was your experience with Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Just didn’t seem like she was on top of her game with my meds and the dosing and then she wasn’t the best about ordering follow up test for me. When we went for our first consult she seemed great but more and more each visit It felt less and less like that first consult visit
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Speak up for want you want.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
We saw her for 7 iui’s plus other visits for one year and she never once pronounced our last name correctly. There where times she didn’t even know what meds I was doing that round
Describe the protocols Kristen Cain used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
We did one round iui with clomid and then the remaining 6 where with Femara. I wasn’t put on metformin till I asked about it. If DR Cain wasn’t available I would see someone else and that was fine, but it was like Dr Cain never looked back to see what my medication dosings had been changed to the previous round and I would have to tell her.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The nurses at Sanford were awesome! Very prompt at returning phone calls. And very friendly and always wished you good luck and had words of encouragement
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
They have a nice building. You are able to do some tests at other facilities and have them sent to Fargo. It is in it nice private little area. No kids at clinic nice feature. It’s a nice cozy clinic doesn’t feel much like a clinic waiting room.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
I felt prices where within range of other clinics for iui. IVf prices were a little high compared to other places.
What specific things went wrong at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Had a day where no one called me with my lab results
Clomid was prescribed first [by Dr. Von Wald], with significant reduction in endometrial lining. My second cycle included 5 days of Letrozole and estradiol, with better lining and more mature follicles. My third cycle included 7 days of Letrozole and estradiol with the addition of Menopur for an IUI cycle...After the initial consultation, it felt like I was on a production line of fertility treatment. It took me asking a lot of questions and requesting more communication over the course of 3 months for the treatment and experience to feel personal to my body and needs.
The reception staff [at Sanford Reproductive Medicine] is usually great! The clinic has its own lab, which is very convenient and discreet in such a large hospital. Billing can be an issue with multiple insurances, so watch your statements closely to avoid overpaying...After the initial consultation, it felt like I was on a production line of fertility treatment. It took me asking a lot of questions and requesting more communication over the course of 3 months for the treatment and experience to feel personal to my body and needs...Clomid was prescribed first, with significant reduction in endometrial lining. My second cycle included 5 days of Letrozole and estradiol, with better lining and more mature follicles. My third cycle included 7 days of Letrozole and estradiol with the addition of Menopur for an IUI cycle. Progesterone was added following the insemination. My current cycle has included 5 days of Letrozole, 2 days of Menopur and estradiol with an IUI scheduled tomorrow.
How was your experience with Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr. Von Wald seems knowledgeable in her field but lacks warmth and individualized care. As a patient with elevated BMI, she suggested weight loss. I asked for specific behaviors related to diet and movement to help support my treatment and was met with a blank stare. It is clear that I am seen as a less than ideal patient for asking questions.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Expect clinical knowledge with an aloof delivery.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Tiffany Von Wald at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
After the initial consultation, it felt like I was on a production line of fertility treatment. It took me asking a lot of questions and requesting more communication over the course of 3 months for the treatment and experience to feel personal to my body and needs.
Describe the protocols Tiffany Von Wald used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
Clomid was prescribed first, with significant reduction in endometrial lining. My second cycle included 5 days of Letrozole and estradiol, with better lining and more mature follicles. My third cycle included 7 days of Letrozole and estradiol with the addition of Menopur for an IUI cycle. Progesterone was added following the insemination. My current cycle has included 5 days of Letrozole, 2 days of Menopur and estradiol with an IUI scheduled tomorrow.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The reception staff is usually great! The clinic has its own lab, which is very convenient and discreet in such a large hospital. Billing can be an issue with multiple insurances, so watch your statements closely to avoid overpaying.
What specific things went wrong at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
She’s [Dr. Cain] very kind. We had seen her from the start, we did seek another opinion after the IUIs failed and went back to her because we felt more comfortable with her decisions. At Sanford she was one of the 3 doctors we felt with- she is no longer there now...Diagnosis was unknown fertility the first time in 2012 I believe and she said some day we’d most likely have to have do IVF. We’ve had dialed round of clomid, IUIs, and IVF took but we miscarried.
They're [Sanford Reproductive Medicine nurses] compassionate through the whole process and there’s no dumb question to ask...All the staff is very good to work with. They all know you’re file when your call or go in. It’s a clean place and as serine as they can make it due to the situation at hand. You bounce between the 3 doctors they have sometimes but they do try keep you with your main one as much as possible.
How was your experience with Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
She’s very kind. We had seen her from the start, we did seek another opinion after the IUIs failed and went back to her because we felt more comfortable with her decisions. At Sanford she was one of the 3 doctors we felt with- she is no longer there now.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Be honest with yourself and her and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Because they talk to both parents about the entire treatment throughout the whole process
Describe the protocols Kristen Cain used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
Diagnosis was unknown fertility the first time in 2012 I believe and she said some day we’d most likely have to have do IVF.
We’ve had dialed round of clomid, IUIs, and IVF took but we miscarried.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
They’re incredible. They're compassionate through the whole process and there’s no dumb question to ask.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
All the staff is very good to work with. They all know you’re file when your call or go in. It’s a clean place and as serine as they can make it due to the situation at hand. You bounce between the 3 doctors they have sometimes but they do try keep you with your main one as much as possible.
[Dr. Kristen Cain's] recommendation was a single embryo because research doesn’t show that implanting two or more has high chances of pregnancy...was always great and we felt she cared about our case...She was understanding yet explained everything in full and was very open about everything. She gave us the information we needed to make the proper decisions. When she decided to transition to a new clinic she informed us promptly and served us until she left
The costs vary [at Sanford Reproductive Medicine]. Our ivf procedure we were quoted about 14800 plus medications...Appointment availability has been great. They ensured I had a private area when we found out we were having a miscarriage and provided us with all the information. I think options for additional funding would be beneficial and providing options for grants or additional payment plans...Most nursing staff was great!...
How was your experience with Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr Cain was great. She was understanding yet explained everything in full and was very open about everything. She gave us the information we needed to make the proper decisions. When she decided to transition to a new clinic she informed us promptly and served us until she left
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
She is a good doctor
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr. Cain was always great and we felt she cared about our case
Describe the protocols Kristen Cain used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
Dr. Cain made recommendations appropriately and explained procedures before we had to make a decision and ensure we understood what we were choosing
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Most nursing staff was great!
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Appointment availability has been great. They ensured I had a private area when we found out we were having a miscarriage and provided us with all the information. I think options for additional funding would be beneficial and providing options for grants or additional payment plans.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The costs vary. Our ivf procedure we were quoted about 14800 plus medications
Describe Kristen Cain's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Her recommendation was a single embryo because research doesn’t show that implanting two or more has high chances of pregnancy
Dr. Cain is willing to listen and work with you. She listened when we explained what we wanted and she was willing to work with us to get the desired result. She is very blunt but caring at the same time. She will tell you how it is but in a professional way. It is still too early in the process to determine if she is successful, but she has been nice to work with so far.
This seems to be a very organized clinic [Sanford Reproductive Medicine]. They are very busy as they are one of the only ones in the state. Everyone is extremely nice and professional. The staff is very easy to work with considering the reason you are in the clinic for a very personal reason. ... The cost is expensive regardless what you are there for. Insurance usually does not cover much if anything.
How was your experience with Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr. Cain is willing to listen and work with you. She listened when we explained what we wanted and she was willing to work with us to get the desired result. She is very blunt but caring at the same time. She will tell you how it is but in a professional way. It is still too early in the process to determine if she is successful, but she has been nice to work with so far.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Tell Dr. Cain everything you want out of the visit and do not hold back. She is very detailed-oriented.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
This seems to be a very organized clinic. They are very busy as they are one of the only ones in the state. Everyone is extremely nice and professional. The staff is very easy to work with considering the reason you are in the clinic for a very personal reason.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The cost is expensive regardless what you are there for. Insurance usually does not cover much if anything.
[Dr. Dahl] was a great communicator however I wish she could/would’ve told me exactly what step she’d take text as a result of my cycle results. She was great to explain everything and made sure we understood everything upcoming or the reasons we had done things the way we did...was also worried about the emotional aspect of IVF and discussed canceling the cycle when quality eggs were not retrieved.
[Sanford Reproductive Medicine] Strengths- hours, hospitality, flexibility, convenient location, promo medication given if available Weaknesses- price: however the doctors continue to work with Sanford to make things as affordable as possible...$26,000 without meds...[nurses are] Top of the line
How was your experience with Stephanie Dahl at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
She was a great communicator however I wish she could/would’ve told me exactly what step she’d take text as a result of my cycle results. She was great to explain everything and made sure we understood everything upcoming or the reasons we had done things the way we did.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Stephanie Dahl at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Be open with her and don’t be afraid to ask any questions you may have
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Stephanie Dahl at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
She was very compassionate through the process and showed emotion throughout everything!
Describe the protocols Stephanie Dahl used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
Dr Dahl was also worried about the emotional aspect of IVF and discussed canceling the cycle when quality eggs were not retrieved.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Sanford Reproductive Medicine. (Assigned nurse: Allison harrison)
Top of the line
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Strengths- hours, hospitality, flexibility, convenient location, promo medication given if available
Weaknesses- price: however the doctors continue to work with Sanford to make things as affordable as possible
Describe the costs associated with your care under Stephanie Dahl at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
She [Dr. Kristen Cain] would always explain what was going to happen next in the process. She made some very insensitive comments during my appointments with her and never fully explained or gave us an explanation as to what our diagnosis was. I felt as though I was just a number and not a patient that she cared about...We started with femara and times intercourse for 4 cycles which were all unsuccessful. We then progressed to 3 IUIs with clomid or femara.
The clinic [Sanford Reproductive Medicine] was very clean and welcoming. There were couches to sit on and coffee and water available while you wait. There are no children allowed. Wait times were minimal. Free parking and easy clinic to find...She [Dr. Kristen Cain] would always explain what was going to happen next in the process. She made some very insensitive comments during my appointments with her and never fully explained or gave us an explanation as to what our diagnosis was. I felt as though I was just a number and not a patient that she cared about...We started with femara and times intercourse for 4 cycles which were all unsuccessful. We then progressed to 3 IUIs with clomid or femara.
How was your experience with Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
She would always explain what was going to happen next in the process. She made some very insensitive comments during my appointments with her and never fully explained or gave us an explanation as to what our diagnosis was. I felt as though I was just a number and not a patient that she cared about.
Describe the protocols Kristen Cain used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
We started with femara and times intercourse for 4 cycles which were all unsuccessful. We then progressed to 3 IUIs with clomid or femara.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The clinic was very clean and welcoming. There were couches to sit on and coffee and water available while you wait. There are no children allowed. Wait times were minimal. Free parking and easy clinic to find.
What specific things went wrong at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
She [Dr. Stephanie Dahl] is very quick to start treatment. Was very good about answering questions. We are dealing with male infertility as well as female and she set us up with a urologist she liked and we are now able to move forward with our treatments again. My only complaint is it can take a few days to hear back when you ask a question...We did a ton of lab work and uktrasound. Did a semin analysis on the first visit as well. Scheduled another HSG since it’s been over a year since my last one. Started with promethium to induce cycle, ultrasound cycle day 3, femara 5mg cd 4-8, Menopur 75iu days 9-12, folicules can day 13 and ovidril trigger if ready, timed intercourse or iui and progesterone suppositories in the two week wait.
Nursing staff [at Sanford Reproductive Medicine] is amazing and friendly. Always very helpful and try to get things done as fast as they can for you...They charge what I’ve seen a lot of places charge. Nothing outrageous but not the cheapest either...Very fast to get referrals and everything you need done to ease that stress on you. Takes a ew days to hear back with questions directly to doctors. Nursing staff is amazing. Doctor me are very knowledgeable and eager to help to achieve pregnancy in the least invasive/expensive way for you.
How was your experience with Stephanie Dahl at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
She is very quick to start treatment. Was very good about answering questions. We are dealing with male infertility as well as female and she set us up with a urologist she liked and we are now able to move forward with our treatments again. My only complaint is it can take a few days to hear back when you ask a question. Other than that I love the clinic in Fargo.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Stephanie Dahl at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Go in with all the questions you have and don’t be afraid to ask. These doctors are here to help you and you should be comfortable to ask those difficult questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Stephanie Dahl at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr Dahl is very great about calling you personally to talk about any questions you have. They are also very quick to getting treatment started and working around your schedule.
Describe the protocols Stephanie Dahl used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
We did a ton of lab work and uktrasound. Did a semin analysis on the first visit as well. Scheduled another HSG since it’s been over a year since my last one. Started with promethium to induce cycle, ultrasound cycle day 3, femara 5mg cd 4-8, Menopur 75iu days 9-12, folicules can day 13 and ovidril trigger if ready, timed intercourse or iui and progesterone suppositories in the two week wait.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Nursing staff is amazing and friendly. Always very helpful and try to get things done as fast as they can for you.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Very fast to get referrals and everything you need done to ease that stress on you. Takes a ew days to hear back with questions directly to doctors. Nursing staff is amazing. Doctor me are very knowledgeable and eager to help to achieve pregnancy in the least invasive/expensive way for you.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Stephanie Dahl at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
They charge what I’ve seen a lot of places charge. Nothing outrageous but not the cheapest either.
Dr. Christensen was always patient to answer any questions I had, described why he was prescribing/planning they cycle and gave me all the details of what to expect. He is very personable, interested in more than just getting another patients. I had him for my consult as well at during many appointments.... Since I have a high AMH he started with lower does of the meds to avoid creating too many follicles, as that wasn't working he would adjust the doses and when they were given.
The doctors and nurses [Sanford Repro Med] were amazing, very personable, willing to answer any questions, prompt in replying to questions or giving information mid cycle after monitoring appointments. The billing staff is a nightmare to work with. I have been going back and forth with them for about 9 months now. During one of my first appointments I was told they do not like to bill my insurance because they can be difficult to bill through their online billing system
How was your experience with Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr. Christensen was always patient to answer any questions I had, described why he was prescribing/planning they cycle and gave me all the details of what to expect. He is very personable, interested in more than just getting another patients. I had him for my consult as well at during many appointments. He was very detailed in the consult, he took time to read over my chart, ask questions and create a plan for moving forward with more fertility treatments. I always left appointments after seeing him feeling confident in what we were doing as far as treatment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Listen to what he has to say and don't be afraid to ask questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
The doctor and staff always remembered who I was, what was currently going on for the cycle, and even small details like what I was going to be doing the previous weekend. They were very personable and made me feel like I was the only patient there.
Describe the protocols Steffen Christensen used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
We did timed intercourse and one IUI cycle with just femara initially. Once that didn't work we added in gonal-f and ovidrel. Since I have a high AMH he started with lower does of the meds to avoid creating too many follicles, as that wasn't working he would adjust the doses and when they were given.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The nursing staff was amazing. They were very quick to respond to any questions I had, updated me with a message through the online system promptly after test results came in, and always remember small details. They were not as forth coming about where to get cheaper medications and rather only directed me to one pharmacy that I learned later was much more expensive that I needed to be spending.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The doctors and nurses were amazing, very personable, willing to answer any questions, prompt in replying to questions or giving information mid cycle after monitoring appointments.
The billing staff is a nightmare to work with. I have been going back and forth with them for about 9 months now. During one of my first appointments I was told they do not like to bill my insurance because they can be difficult to bill through their online billing system and if they don't pay it is their choice to bill or not to bill. I was confused by this but they have billed them with out any issue. The issue that keeps arising is that I have two insurances and when they bill my secondary that not attaching the EOB from my primary insurance so the secondary is denying the claim even though it is a covered benefit. If you use the clinic be sure to stay on top of the billing and don't hesitate to call to get ti sorted out. They are not your friend when it comes to billing and they will send a bill if your insurance denies a claim due to a filing error on their part. This has happened to me many times and I have resorted to speaking directly with a billing supervisor to sort it all out.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
An IUI cycle was roughly $1,500 with monitoring (medication were extra). They actual procedure and sperm wash was about $550.
Dr Cain was friendly and a pleasant doctor. She ordered infectious disease testing that I had already done in my past, and the results were in my record. Which was a large waste of money. I did 3 medicated IUIs with 5mg of femara with no pregnancies. I do not feel that that enough monitoring was done. I asked several times for testing to confirm when exactly I was ovulating, which was denied. She recommended continuing the same protocol,
The nurses [Sanford Repro Med] have a 24 hour response time, which can be frustrating when treatment is so time sensitive.... This clinic is the only one in the area, and they take advantage of it. Treatment cost is 2-3x average and success rates are below average. We did IUIs there but are planning on traveling for IVF. I only saw my main provider, DR Cain a couple of times, otherwise I saw whatever NP or Dr that was available.
How was your experience with Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr Cain was friendly and a pleasant doctor. She ordered infectious disease testing that I had already done in my past, and the results were in my record. Which was a large waste of money. I did 3 medicated IUIs with 5mg of femara with no pregnancies. I do not feel that that enough monitoring was done. I asked several times for testing to confirm when exactly I was ovulating, which was denied. She recommended continuing the same protocol, where I felt it was time to move on to other options, further testing, etc.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Do a lot of research on your own and have an idea of how many times you want to repeat procedures before moving on.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Very generic treatment. Questions were answered with “most people”, “usually this happens”, etc rather than giving individual care or testing to confirm expectations.
Describe the protocols Kristen Cain used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
Dr Cain repeated the same protocol for me. I ovulate on my own. Our only known issue is moderate male factor, 3% morphology, 20% motility. I ovulated 2-3 eggs on 5mg femara. Ovidrel trigger shot when follicles were mature and IUI 36 hours later. I did not get pregnant.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
The nurses have a 24 hour response time, which can be frustrating when treatment is so time sensitive.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
This clinic is the only one in the area, and they take advantage of it. Treatment cost is 2-3x average and success rates are below average. We did IUIs there but are planning on traveling for IVF. I only saw my main provider, DR Cain a couple of times, otherwise I saw whatever NP or Dr that was available. They all follow the same protocols and patients aren’t really treated as individuals. Everyone is very welcoming and friendly. Particularly the ultrasound tech and phlebotomist stand out as providing great care.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Kristen Cain at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
IUI was a total of $2,000-$2,500/cycle
Describe Kristen Cain's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
I have not discussed IvF with Dr Cain. We are planning on doing Ivf with a different clinic, but will monitored at her clinic.
What specific things went wrong at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Failed to order appropriate test
Lost or damaged samples
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
One of my urine samples was lost. I had to come back to repeat, but I did not find this to be a big inconvenience.
Dr Christensen is very compassionate and caring. Listens to my concerns and answers all my questions. His goal is to get me a baby by the end of the year and is being aggresive with treatment. I like that! ... I have PCOS and most doctors I’ve seen is always scared because I have 30 antrial follicles on each ovary at baseline scan. But he isn’t scared to up my dosage just enough to eat a coupe more follicles to grow. We normally only get two good ones after 10 days of injections. He is hoping for 4 this cycle.
This clinic [Sanford Reproductive Medicine] is super clean and nice. They don’t allow children which is super understandable. So if you have any children arrange childcare ahead of time. Also everything you need is in that clinic. They do the SA right there and ultrasounds ect. ... She is always so helpful and prompt to get questions answered and forms needed for insurance done. ... Because we did timed intercourse I would pay for meds and my insurance covered scans and visits.
How was your experience with Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
He is so kind and compassionate. He knows we have been trying almost two years since our loss and is getting more aggressive with treatment to give us the outcome we want. I have PCOS and most doctors I’ve seen is always scared because I have 30 antrial follicles on each ovary at baseline scan. But he isn’t scared to up my dosage just enough to eat a coupe more follicles to grow. We normally only get two good ones after 10 days of injections. He is hoping for 4 this cycle.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Always be open and honest and don’t be scared to ask your questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Dr Christensen is very compassionate and caring. Listens to my concerns and answers all my questions. His goal is to get me a baby by the end of the year and is being aggresive with treatment. I like that!
Describe the protocols Steffen Christensen used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
We started it with femara days 3-7 and the menopur 75iu daily until eggs were ready. I always had two but never conceived. I then had laparoscopy and then started straight menopur cycles. Cycle one we started at 75 iu for one week and no growth, then 150 iu for 4 days. No growth. Then 225 iu for 4 days. I then had 9 12 mm follicles. My estrogen was super high and my body surged on its own. Cancelled cycle and afterfliw showed up a week later. Second cycle 150 iu for a week. 2 follicles at 16 mm. 150 iu two more days and then triggered with 2-21 mm. Timed intercourse day of trigger and the next two days. BFN. Cycle number 3. 225 iu mneopure cd 5-7. Then 150 iu cd 8-12. Have my scan the next day. He expects I’ll be ready to trigger cd 14. 🤞🏻
Describe your experience with your nurse at Sanford Reproductive Medicine. (Assigned nurse: Amy)
She is always so helpful and prompt to get questions answered and forms needed for insurance done.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
This clinic is super clean and nice. They don’t allow children which is super understandable. So if you have any children arrange childcare ahead of time. Also everything you need is in that clinic. They do the SA right there and ultrasounds ect.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
Because we did timed intercourse I would pay for meds and my insurance covered scans and visits.
I have been with Dr. Christensen for a couple months. I have been through infertility treatment for 5 years and having him as a Dr. Has been a blessing. I only wish I would have started with him sooner. He covers absolutely every detail and makes sure you understand moving forward. I would say the only downfall is he is long distance for me but telemedicine has made it very easy to still have that patient doctor relationship.
They [the nurses at Sanford Reproductive Med-Fargo] are wonderful. they use an app that allows me to correspond with them through emailing and they always respond within an hour or two to every question that I have. They are also available by phone and very compassionate and all friendly.... I have always been helped probably and with ease at the women's clinic at Sanford Medical Center. The only inconvenience is my ultrasound appointments and lab work are over at the hospital and then my telemed visits are at the clinic so it's a lot of back and forth between the two buildings on the days that I have appointments.
How was your experience with Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
I have been with Dr. Christensen for a couple months. I have been through infertility treatment for 5 years and having him as a Dr. Has been a blessing. I only wish I would have started with him sooner. He covers absolutely every detail and makes sure you understand moving forward. I would say the only downfall is he is long distance for me but telemedicine has made it very easy to still have that patient doctor relationship.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
Make sure you write down all your questions, he is very good about answering everything.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine?
His staff and himself are very quick to respond to any question and we're always available after hours if there was any problems.
Describe the protocols Steffen Christensen used in your cycles at Sanford Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
I have only done one round of treatment with Dr. Christensen as I just switched to him. We meant in person at a consultation where we discussed everything we have done and any issues that had happened before. He explained all my options and gave his professional opinion on what he felt would be the best options for us. We decided to do an IUI cycle with injections, menopur, this would be our 6th but our first with him. During the process over that month. I had several questions and he always responded back in a timely manner and was very helpful. We had appointments every couple days, we would first do an ultrasound and then meet with Dr Christensen via telemed and then follow up with labs to check my estrogen and progesterone levels to make sure I did not hyper stimulate with the injections. I really appreciate it how thorough he was with every step and every appointment. I felt like things were missed in the past with our years of fertility treatment. when it became time for the actual IUI procedure we seen dr. Klemin at Sanford Women's Health Center. This is standard because Dr Christensen is 3 hours away from the town that we live in. We did have the choice to drive there and have the procedure done there but he recommended that the staff was very good at the clinic here and we had no reason to worry or feel the need to travel to him. A few days after the procedure we started progesterone and did the long two week wait and unfortunately I started my cycle. Of course we were disappointed but we knew this was a chance of this happening and we've experienced it five times prior to that. Dr Christensen and his staff were extremely supportive and compassionate with the cycle not working for us and have recommended IVF moving forward we are considering it it's just the initial expense that we have to save up for to be able to do this procedure. he went through every step of the process with us and made us feel very comfortable and if we do pursue this in the future we will be doing it with Dr Christensen.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
They are wonderful. they use an app that allows me to correspond with them through emailing and they always respond within an hour or two to every question that I have. They are also available by phone and very compassionate and all friendly.
Describe your experience with Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
I don't go directly to the clinic that Dr Christensen is at due to he is in Fargo but he works with the Sanford Clinic here in Bismarck North Dakota. I have always been helped probably and with ease at the women's clinic at Sanford Medical Center. The only inconvenience is my ultrasound appointments and lab work are over at the hospital and then my telemed visits are at the clinic so it's a lot of back and forth between the two buildings on the days that I have appointments.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Steffen Christensen at Sanford Reproductive Medicine.
His clinic excepts my health insurance so one my deductible is meant, I'm required to pay 20% of any appointments, procedures and medications.