Dr Pauli was always really attentive and informed whenever we met with him. He explained every detail and possibility for us. Sometimes, he would call me after hours to update me on results or if I was having an issue with the clinic...[he] is incredibly generous with his time and knowledge and making us feel like we're moving forward
The doctors [at Boston IVF] are great. If your IVF is pretty straight forward, then I'm sure you'll have no issues going through the process, but do not expect the nurses or the clinicians to know your case or even glance at it before they call you for anything other than routine med calls during your cycle...I went two months without a period and no one wondered where I was or what my status was, so you absolutely have to be your own advocate otherwise, you won't make a jot of progress.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr Paul is incredibly generous with his time and knowledge and making us feel like we're moving forward. He was recommended to us by my OB-GYN because of his compassion and his expertise which are not exaggerated.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr Pauli was always really attentive and informed whenever we met with him. He explained every detail and possibility for us. Sometimes, he would call me after hours to update me on results or if I was having an issue with the clinic.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Boston IVF.
The nursing staff at Boston IVF are the gatekeepers to your doctor. Every time you ask a question about some element of your treatment, you get the stock answer. Do not expect anyone to be familiar with your file or listen when you explain to them that you have x issue, they are not intimately familiar with your case nor do they care. They're used to straightforward IVF procedures, not nuance.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
This place is an actual disaster. The doctors are great. If your IVF is pretty straight forward, then I'm sure you'll have no issues going through the process, but do not expect the nurses or the clinicians to know your case or even glance at it before they call you for anything other than routine med calls during your cycle. Insurance is an actual disaster and you need to stay on them because you'll lose serious time with oversights. (Example: For me, they wasted two months trying to file my medications with a prescription that doesn't work with my insurance and insisting that I was wrong and telling me to call. No.) Their delays will cost you, for me, it meant three surgeries, one that I wouldn't have required had they been competent. Some of this competency is due to their insurance and authorization people being understaffed and clearly uninformed or unfamiliar. Finally, they basically leave you to manage your own care. No one is holding your hand through this or keeping-up with you. I went two months without a period and no one wondered where I was or what my status was, so you absolutely have to be your own advocate otherwise, you won't make a jot of progress.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
$3000
What specific things went wrong at Boston IVF?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost paperwork
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 Boston IVF.
They called my prescriptions in to the wrong pharmacy, a pharmacy not even ASSOCIATED with my insurance. For six weeks I waited for pre-authorizations which were not received. I was told to call the pharmacy and they said they never received the authorizations. It was clear that no one at Boston IVF knew what they were doing and the nursing team was tasked with spending six hours on the phone to figure this out instead of the insurance or billing people. I have had multiple delays due to Covid-19, clerical errors that resulted in additional surgeries, and additional stressors. The lack of attention to your record is a huge issue with the assumption that all patients are simply impatient.
During the first IUI cycle [with Dr. Pauli], we started with the lowest dose and incremented up until I was on the highest dose plus dexamethasone. For our egg retrieval, he had me do an antagonist protocol with Cetrotide. I don't know the rationale for this protocol over others, but I responded will in terms of follicles/mature eggs produced...he strongly suggested elective single embryo transfers for the first two transfers. After that, he seemed more amenable to doing a multiple embryo transfer if I pushed for that but still recommended single embryo transfers.
A few times I have not received a call [from Boston IVF] with details about the results of some diagnostic tests. I also had an incident during my third IUI where I received a false result. A mechanical malfunction caused my beta result to be recorded as positive rather than negative...is a large fertility clinic, which has advantages and disadvantages. One of the pros is that monitoring and time sensitive procedures (IUIs, retrievals, transfers) happen every day of the week, and with the exception of scheduling consultations with my RE, I'm able to schedule tests/procedures without huge delays/waits. The cons are that care may not be as personalized as it is at smaller clinics with fewer patients.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr. Pauli has been fantastic. I really appreciate his straightforward manner. He's approach tends to be more conservative and while I have not gotten pregnant yet, I don't think this is a reflection of his clinical skills.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Ask lots of questions. Dr. Pauli always seemed willing to answer all my questions and explain his rationale for my treatment plans, and asking questions helped me to understand.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr. Pauli has really listened to my concerns, answered my questions compassionately, and was receptive when I asked about alternative transfer protocols.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
We did three IUIs with Dr. Pauli using letrozole, which he selected because the academic research indicates women with PCOS tend to respond better to letrozole than clomid. During the first IUI cycle, we started with the lowest dose and incremented up until I was on the highest dose plus dexamethasone.
For our egg retrieval, he had me do an antagonist protocol with Cetrotide. I don't know the rationale for this protocol over others, but I responded will in terms of follicles/mature eggs produced. On retrieval day, we got 21 eggs, 16 mature eggs, 16 fertilized, and 6 embryos frozen on day 5. I did develop mild OHSS.
For the first two frozen embryo transfers, Dr. Pauli had me on a birth control and Lupron down regulation then estrogen in increasing doses before starting progesterone in oil after a lining check. Both transfers resulted in negative betas. We switched to ovulation induction with letrozole and an HCG triggers shot for the third embryo transfer, which resulted in a chemical pregnancy. I stopped responding to letrozole, so we switched back to the original transfer protocol and did an ERA, which showed that I was 1 day pre-receptive and needed an additional 24 hours of progesterone. Our fourth embryo transfer resulted in a missed miscarriage between 6 and 8 weeks. Fifth transfer resulted in a negative beta test.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Boston IVF. (Assigned nurse: Nicki)
Nurse Nicki primarily manages my care, and she has been fantastic. Occasionally, one of the other nurses on Dr. Pauli's team will manage my care and they have also been great. They almost always return my call on the same day if not within an hour or two of leaving a message.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
BostonIVF (which merged with IVF NE a couple years ago) is a large fertility clinic, which has advantages and disadvantages. One of the pros is that monitoring and time sensitive procedures (IUIs, retrievals, transfers) happen every day of the week, and with the exception of scheduling consultations with my RE, I'm able to schedule tests/procedures without huge delays/waits. The cons are that care may not be as personalized as it is at smaller clinics with fewer patients.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
My insurance has covered the majority of my costs.
Describe Samuel Pauli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Boston IVF.
In my situation, he strongly suggested elective single embryo transfers for the first two transfers. After that, he seemed more amenable to doing a multiple embryo transfer if I pushed for that but still recommended single embryo transfers.
What specific things went wrong at Boston IVF?
Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Boston IVF.
A few times I have not received a call with details about the results of some diagnostic tests. I also had an incident during my third IUI where I received a false result. A mechanical malfunction caused my beta result to be recorded as positive rather than negative.
Dr. Pauli was clear, direct and provided us with information that we needed to plan our treatment. Dr. Pauli presented treatment in a clear and straightforward way and was pragmatic about the course of treatment. Dr. Pauli laid out the process clearly and gave us some options. He was open to our preferences and laid out benefits and drawbacks to all potential courses...will take time, but he is also efficient and sees a lot of people. I did not get the feeling he was trying to move us along, but I came with a lot of information already, and my husband wanted to get his head around the process more. He got flustered and didn't remember some questions he had previously. Don't be discouraged that he is not initially the warmest doctor. He was pretty flat, but he is clear, direct and thorough, which at this point I value more than warmth.
Grace [nurse at Boston IVF] greeted us by name and was so kind. She met with us after and seemed willing to go the extra step to get us information we had requested around financing and potential for remote monitoring at an office closer to us, as we are self pay. She explained next steps to us, and was supportive and patient with all of our questions...We have been quoted: 8,450 IVF...The office we were seen at is a transitional space for the clinic. It was an older space within a hospital that has nice ambiance. I initially questioned whether or not we were in the right place because the suite is shared with another service within the hospital. We waited for awhile to be seen and then to meet with the nurse. Everyone was kind, but it does not seem that any department has an idea about the workings of other aspects of the operation. That makes some sense, but was confusing when we had questions about billing as a self-pay client. Everyone is knowledgeable in their area though, and it is easy to find the person you need.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr. Pauli was clear, direct and provided us with information that we needed to plan our treatment. Dr. Pauli presented treatment in a clear and straightforward way and was pragmatic about the course of treatment. Dr. Pauli laid out the process clearly and gave us some options. He was open to our preferences and laid out benefits and drawbacks to all potential courses.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Come to your appointment prepared with any questions. Dr. Pauli will take time, but he is also efficient and sees a lot of people. I did not get the feeling he was trying to move us along, but I came with a lot of information already, and my husband wanted to get his head around the process more. He got flustered and didn't remember some questions he had previously. Don't be discouraged that he is not initially the warmest doctor. He was pretty flat, but he is clear, direct and thorough, which at this point I value more than warmth.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr. Pauli took time to meet with us and review the specific of our case. He asked a lot of questions and made recommendations based on our preferences and his experience. He did not rush us through and left room for any questions. He was patient and considerate. He was not overly friendly or warm, but delivered information clearly and thoroughly.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
Dr. Pauli mentioned that some of my levels are in the borderline range, and he might aim for a more aggressive protocol for stimulation. I am not yet sure what this means i terms of medication dosages.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Boston IVF. (Assigned nurse: Grace)
Grace greeted us by name and was so kind. She met with us after and seemed willing to go the extra step to get us information we had requested around financing and potential for remote monitoring at an office closer to us, as we are self pay. She explained next steps to us, and was supportive and patient with all of our questions.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
The office we were seen at is a transitional space for the clinic. It was an older space within a hospital that has nice ambiance. I initially questioned whether or not we were in the right place because the suite is shared with another service within the hospital. We waited for awhile to be seen and then to meet with the nurse. Everyone was kind, but it does not seem that any department has an idea about the workings of other aspects of the operation. That makes some sense, but was confusing when we had questions about billing as a self-pay client. Everyone is knowledgeable in their area though, and it is easy to find the person you need.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
We have been quoted:
8,450 IVF
4400 Frozen transfer
3700 Pre-implantation genetic testing
1200 ISCI
upward of 5k meds
Describe Samuel Pauli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Boston IVF.
Dr. Pauli was cautiously open to multiple embryo transfer when my husband asked, but standard us eSet and he saw no reason to deviate given our health history and age. He would potentially consider based on quality of embryos.
I felt like he [Samuel Pauli] looked into my case individually and didn’t give me a blank diagnosis and treatment....Coming from a doctor with no bedside manner Dr. Pauli is a breathe of fresh air. He has a sense of humar which is needed in this journey...He isn’t in the business’s of making multiples and does what’s best for you to not have a high risk pregnancy....
Friendly phlebotomist and ultrasound techs. Clean and modern office [Boston IVF Lexington]. Always on time for morning blood work and monitoring which I appreciate to get to work on time. Once I showed up to the wrong office and instead of making me leave and travel to another office they handled it like no big deal and fit me right in, I didn’t even have to wait. The awesome nurse knowing I’m self pay suggested I may qualify for a discount I wasn’t aware of. They also gave me med samples from the sample closet to save me a significant amount of money. New policy: sometimes you sign into the portal to look at results but it’s hard to make sense of the hormone levels.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Coming from a doctor with no bedside manner Dr. Pauli is a breathe of fresh air. He has a sense of humar which is needed in this journey and comes highly recommended in the online support group I’m in.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
If you’re looking to pick a fertility doctor or make a change go for it!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
I felt like he looked into my case individually and didn’t give me a blank diagnosis and treatment.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
changing my injections as needed to keep follicles growing while also trying to prevent OHSS.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Boston IVF. (Assigned nurse: Brittany )
Goes above and beyond!! She gave me extra samples of meds since I’m self pay, filled out multiple papers for applying for scholarships and always calls in the afternoon with blood work results.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
Friendly phlebotomist and ultrasound techs. Clean and modern office. Always on time for morning blood work and monitoring which I appreciate to get to work on time. Once I showed up to the wrong office and instead of making me leave and travel to another office they handled it like no big deal and fit me right in, I didn’t even have to wait. The awesome nurse knowing I’m self pay suggested I may qualify for a discount I wasn’t aware of. They also gave me med samples from the sample closet to save me a significant amount of money.
New policy: sometimes you sign into the portal to look at results but it’s hard to make sense of the hormone levels.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
$9,400 for IVF and monitoring plus medication roughly $2,000-$4,000
Describe Samuel Pauli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Boston IVF.
He isn’t in the business’s of making multiples and does what’s best for you to not have a high risk pregnancy.
With PGS, [Dr. Samuel Pauli] advised to transfer 1 only. Without PGS, then we were advised to transfer 2...He is a very sweet man, but also analytical and technical as a doctor. He is a professional and all business while maintaining a very human demeanor...will tweak protocols when something doesn't work. He was always very kind and easy to talk to, and I am sad that things didn't work out. Towards the end of my time I felt like he was almost too kind and would say what he thought I wanted to hear rather than what I needed to hear.
We got along amazingly well [with the nurses at Boston IVF]. I also would get my bloodwork and ultrasounds done at a local satellite clinic and I got along spectacularly well with the phlebotomists and sonographers there after seeing them for years...If you go early [for monitoring], then you'd be fine. Mostly people didn't show up at their designated times, so it was generally first come first serve. The satellite clinic I went to was amazing and they loved seeing me so much.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
He really wants to have his patients succeed, and he is very modest and will tweak protocols when something doesn't work. He was always very kind and easy to talk to, and I am sad that things didn't work out. Towards the end of my time I felt like he was almost too kind and would say what he thought I wanted to hear rather than what I needed to hear.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
If you are under 35 and have no history of recurrent pregnancy loss, than you should do just fine with him. More advanced cases with older patients and recurrent pregnancy losses may need to look elsewhere.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
He is a very sweet man, but also analytical and technical as a doctor. He is a professional and all business while maintaining a very human demeanor.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
Round 1: Menopur and Gonal F, Cetrotide Pregnyl Trigger
8 eggs, all mature and fertilized. 1 fresh transfer "worked," miscarriage at 11 weeks. Karyotype revealed a normal pregnancy and unexplained loss. 2 remaining untested frozen embryos. 1st negative pregnancy test, 2nd "worked," miscarriage at 8 weeks due to triploidy.
Round 2: Menopur and Gonal F, Cetrotide Pregnyl Trigger
Added PGS. 7 eggs, 4 fertilized, 1 abnormal blast.
Round 3: Menopur and Gonal F, Cetrotide Pregnyl/Lupron Double Trigger
Added PGS. 10 eggs, 4 fertilized, 1 abnormal blast.
Round 4: Lupron Flare with Lupron and Gonal F only, Pregnyl Trigger
Added PGS. 11 eggs, 4 fertilized, 1 PGS normal blast. Miscarriage at 6ish weeks with low beta and slow heartrate. Was found to be an abnormal blast after karyotype testing.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Boston IVF. (Assigned nurse: Nikki P and Nikki F)
We got along amazingly well. I also would get my bloodwork and ultrasounds done at a local satellite clinic and I got along spectacularly well with the phlebotomists and sonographers there after seeing them for years. Unfortunately, my primary nursing team was moved to another location closer to me, and I did not like the team there, which further contributed to my leaving after the third miscarriage.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
Strengths: So many different doctors and locations to choose from, you just gotta move around and see who may be the perfect fit for you. There is also a MInd-Body center on site where the surgical unit is so you can have counseling or acupuncture if you wish.
Weakness: Very standard, conventional practices, doesn't always tailor the protocol to your needs well, and could have benefitted from further tests.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Boston IVF.
If you go early, then you'd be fine. Mostly people didn't show up at their designated times, so it was generally first come first serve. The satellite clinic I went to was amazing and they loved seeing me so much.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
Luckily, we have health insurance, so our rounds were completely covered. Medications had to be paid for though, but they only made out to be in the $200 range tops.
Describe Samuel Pauli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Boston IVF.
With PGS, it was advised to transfer 1 only. Without PGS, then we were advised to transfer 2.
I can't say enough about how fantastic Dr. Pauli is. He is thorough and honest in his explanations of options for me and chances of success. He is creative and thoughtful in his approach to my treatment. He listens to my concerns and questions and I never feel talked down to. He's been invaluable in navigating this process, and I trust him implicitly...explains things honestly, realistically and thoughtfully. He is warm and genuine, and I feel very comfortable asking any questions I have.
The appointments run on time, the nurses and ultrasound technicians are knowledgeable and happily answer all of my questions. I go to Boston IVF location in Waltham for my egg retrievals and transfers. Everything's been good there as well, I've had no issues. Appointments run on time, doctors performing the retrievals and transfers have been thorough with their explanations. No complaints.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
I can't say enough about how fantastic Dr. Pauli is. He is thorough and honest in his explanations of options for me and chances of success. He is creative and thoughtful in his approach to my treatment. He listens to my concerns and questions and I never feel talked down to. He's been invaluable in navigating this process, and I trust him implicitly.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Ask any questions you have, anytime. Dr Pauli will answer them honestly.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr Pauli explains things honestly, realistically and thoughtfully. He is warm and genuine, and I feel very comfortable asking any questions I have.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
We used a microdose lupron flare protocol. We primed with estrogen (2 mg tabs morning/evening) from Day 21 of my previous cycle until my current cycle started. 10 units MDLupron starting the evening of my suppression check, and morning/evening thereafter. Follastim 300 units morning/evening starting on cycle day 4. We've retrieved varying numbers of eggs (anywhere from 4-7 per cycle) and anywhere from 2-4 have fertilized each cycle. I'm older (42) so getting eggs to develop to Day 5 was a problem for the first 2 cycles. This past cycle we did a fresh 3 day transfer of the 2 fertilized eggs we had, but it was not successful. We're trying a similar cycle now, and will again do a fresh transfer with any fertilized eggs.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Boston IVF.
The nurses I speak with regularly (Brittany, Nikki, Sherice) are great. They're knowledgeable about my protocol, and promptly return any calls answering questions I have.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
I go to the Boston IVF location in Lexington for bloodwork, ultrasounds, and my appointments with Dr. Pauli. The appointments run on time, the nurses and ultrasound technicians are knowledgeable and happily answer all of my questions. I go to Boston IVF location in Waltham for my egg retrievals and transfers. Everything's been good there as well, I've had no issues. Appointments run on time, doctors performing the retrievals and transfers have been thorough with their explanations. No complaints.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
Most was covered under my health insurance (thankfully). We didn't end up using PGS testing, but that would be an out of pocket cost, as would using frozen donor eggs.
Describe Samuel Pauli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Boston IVF.
We are doing a multiple embryo transfer, as I'm older and my egg quality hasn't been great. Dr Pauli felt that would give us the best chance of getting pregnant.
Dr. Pauli has great bedside manor, even while delivering bad news he makes you feel like he cares. I also like that he doesn’t give you false hope and tells it to you straight. Dr. Pauli has made me feel like I have say. When a cycle didn’t work he listens to my concerns and discusses the what to do next. I am a scientist so I am always reading medical journal articles, and Dr. Pauli respects that is willing to try things if it makes sense for a positive outcome.
Dr. Pauli’s nursing team [at IVF New England] openly share information as things progress. It makes me feel more involved and less vulnerable. Everyone is friendly and so supportive, my own cheer squad!...the day of my fresh transfer my husband had a difficult day time with his contribution. Not only did the rooms not have any door looks, and people kept knocking on the door...The Waltham IVF location was the only complaint we have.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr. Pauli has great bedside manor, even while delivering bad news he makes you feel like he cares. I also like that he doesn’t give you false hope and tells it to you straight. Dr. Pauli has made me feel like I have say. When a cycle didn’t work he listens to my concerns and discusses the what to do next. I am a scientist so I am always reading medical journal articles, and Dr. Pauli respects that is willing to try things if it makes sense for a positive outcome.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Don’t be afraid to ask any and everything you can think of.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr. Pauli along with his nursing team openly share information as things progress. It makes me feel more involved and less vulnerable. Everyone is friendly and so supportive, my own cheer squad!
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
My first IUI we tried clomid, but it hampered growth of my uterine lining. So I ended up with a negative test. For the next two cycle of iui we just used gonal-f at 375 units twice daily, still we got a negative. I never had more than 4 follicles. For the first IVF we used BC, lupron and final-f. After the BC my body had a difficult time restarting resulting in 22 days of injections. However there were 3 follicles and two were retrieved. Both follicles were fertilized by icsi and were day 3 transfer 8A embryos my lining thickened to 7mm. Unfortunately we saw a negative. When meeting with the Dr we discussed what might have hampered things, my concern was that the BC was too suppressive so we tried just estrogen and lupron. . After 14 days of injections my lining had thickened only and I had only one follicle and It didn’t want to grow. So to my dismay the cycle was canceled. The third cycle we went back to BC with clomid, gonal-f and a antagomits. Centrolide the antagonist hurt and bruised me for weeks. Once again my lining did not grow past 4mm, I did have 2 nice follicles. Due to the low # of follicles the IVF cycle was converted to iui. Nothing stuck. Dr. Pauli told me as long as I produce eggs we will try, but I need to start thinking about using a donor egg. That is tough to hear but it is realistic. My current cycle is just beginning with BC, lupron and 375 BID. I hope we get a positive soon.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Boston IVF.
Dr. Pauli’s nursing team openly share information as things progress. It makes me feel more involved and less vulnerable. Everyone is friendly and so supportive, my own cheer squad!
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
The clinic is coviently located in Lexington to my work near by.
The day of my fresh transfer my husband had a difficult day time with his contribution. Not only did the rooms not have any door looks, and people kept knocking on the door. The Waltham IVF location was the only complaint we have.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
He [Dr. Paul] was incredibly knowledgeable. He took the time to go over our five previous cycles in great detail, including dosing and why he thought our outcomes were what they were. He was quick to adjust my doses when my terrible ovaries were not responding well to stims, and was very candid about the fact that my retrieval might not be successful due to my ovaries being displaced by adhesions from endometriosis.
The staff [at IVF New England]\ is mostly awesome. There was one ultrasound tech in the Brookline office who was young and super unprofessional but every other person I encountered was amazing. Every phlebotomist, secretary, ultrasound tech (except for that one), and nurse was compassionate and efficient and just all around awesome. I don’t have any weaknesses to comment on.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
He was incredibly knowledgeable. He took the time to go over our five previous cycles in great detail, including dosing and why he thought our outcomes were what they were. He was quick to adjust my doses when my terrible ovaries were not responding well to stims, and was very candid about the fact that my retrieval might not be successful due to my ovaries being displaced by adhesions from endometriosis. The best was the voicemail I got from him wishing me a happy and healthy pregnancy about a week after I was released from the clinic, that and the fact that he personally called me to talk about my fertilization report. And let’s not forget that it took my last doctor eight embryos over five transfers to get me a live birth, and it took Dr Pauli just two eSETs to give me the gift of my second daughter, who is due in less than two weeks.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Take the time to ask questions, because he will answer absolutely every single one of them candidly.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
He genuinely cared about our situation, and he took plenty of time to go over every detail I asked for.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
We did an antagonist protocol with very high doses of stims for over a week, I think I stimmed for 10 or 11 days? HCG trigger, retrieval went well, fresh eSET resulted in a chemical but I’ve never had luck with fresh transfers. Second transfer was a successful frozen eSET, used PIO for the first time, old doc had me always using Crinone. Also used baby aspirin for the first time.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Boston IVF.
The nurses were great. They were going through some staffing changes so I was never sure who to ask for specifically, but luckily I know one of the nurses personally (mom of a friend) and even though she wasn’t on my team she stepped in and helped me out tremendously whenever I needed to speak with someone directly.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
The staff is mostly awesome. There was one ultrasound tech in the Brookline office who was young and super unprofessional but every other person I encountered was amazing. Every phlebotomist, secretary, ultrasound tech (except for that one), and nurse was compassionate and efficient and just all around awesome. I don’t have any weaknesses to comment on.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
Covered 100% by insurance
Describe Samuel Pauli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Boston IVF.
Our original plan was actually to transfer two at a time given my history, but my insurance limited us to eSET because of my age (under 35) and prior successful pregnancy. He did originally suggest eSET but after going over my history (three transfers of two embryos at once resulting in just one singleton) agreed that two was probably safe for me. I’m glad we ultimately didn’t take that path though!
Dr Pauli is a very science based doctor. He wanted to stick to what has been scientifically researched in terms of supplements and remedies. He listened me for my suggestions and agreed to do a procedure the way I wanted...Dr Pauli explained why it is so hard for us to conceive and was very realistic but in a nice way. He agreed to do the 7th IVF just because I wanted to. At the same time, he blurted out clinic’s success rate was gonna go down with my 7th try.
I liked the regular sonographers Annie and Deb. They told me what they were seeing and didn’t leave me wondering how many follicles I have or how big they were. The lab [at IVF New England] was usually very quick. I didn’t like the way the waiting room was. Various people were waiting and sometimes I felt sensitive to what others were there for...They were always pleasant to talk to. They were organized and answered any questions I had patiently. Their return calls were always prompt.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr Pauli is a very science based doctor. He wanted to stick to what has been scientifically researched in terms of supplements and remedies. He listened me for my suggestions and agreed to do a procedure the way I wanted.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
He is very nice. But don’t ask him about supplements and other things you would do to increase your fertility.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr Pauli explained why it is so hard for us to conceive and was very realistic but in a nice way. He agreed to do the 7th IVF just because I wanted to. At the same time, he blurted out clinic’s success rate was gonna go down with my 7th try. I know he said it jokingly. Except this statement, he treated us nicely.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
Because I had already had four IVF cycles before I saw him, dr Pauli reviewed what worked well and didn’t work well for me from the previous cycles. He did both antagonist and birth control for prep. Used Gonal-f (follistim) as FSH and menopur and lupron. I used clamid and femera as well.
When I used femera and small dose of follistim, I had day 5 transfer for the first time although it ended in negative pregnancy test.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Boston IVF.
They were always pleasant to talk to. They were organized and answered any questions I had patiently. Their return calls were always prompt.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
I liked the regular sonographers Annie and Deb. They told me what they were seeing and didn’t leave me wondering how many follicles I have or how big they were. The lab was usually very quick.
I didn’t like the way the waiting room was. Various people were waiting and sometimes I felt sensitive to what others were there for.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
It was about $10,000 for a complete cycle plus testing and lab. My insurance covered almost all of the full cycle.
Describe Samuel Pauli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Boston IVF.
[Dr. Samuel Pauli] Very detailed and thorough. Made numbered lists. Talked through all aspects of the situation with precision and compassion. Calming bedside manner -- not overly empathic, so seemed trustworthy...If you like someone who makes lists and is detailed, he is your doctor. I didn't want someone who would be overly emotional -- I wanted the news straight, and that's what I got...gave precise explanations and called to follow up
Small outpost of IVF New England and Boston IVF merger. I usually went to Lexington office (IVF NE) but could also go to Waltham office (Boston IVF) for blood work and ultrasounds. I VASTLY PREFERRED the staff at the Waltham office. Ultrasound techs were friendly and communicative, phlebotimists were skilled and fast...I'd come in for morning blood work and ultrasound, and nursing staff would call with results by 2 pm. Very clear communication, gave precise directions. The one thing that didn't happen is that we did not have an appointment to specifically walk me through each of the medications (but I figured it out).
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Very detailed and thorough. Made numbered lists. Talked through all aspects of the situation with precision and compassion. Calming bedside manner -- not overly empathic, so seemed trustworthy.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
If you like someone who makes lists and is detailed, he is your doctor. I didn't want someone who would be overly emotional -- I wanted the news straight, and that's what I got.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
gave precise explanations and called to follow up
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
My insurance required 2 IUIs before IVF. For IUI, used Letrozole and an Ovidrel trigger. Now in middle of IVF. Using Menopur and Gonal-F for daily injections. HCG and Lupron trigger. Cabrigolide to prevent OHSS, will use progesterone cream and estrogen patches to support transfer.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Boston IVF.
I'd come in for morning blood work and ultrasound, and nursing staff would call with results by 2 pm. Very clear communication, gave precise directions. The one thing that didn't happen is that we did not have an appointment to specifically walk me through each of the medications (but I figured it out).
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
Small outpost of IVF New England and Boston IVF merger. I usually went to Lexington office (IVF NE) but could also go to Waltham office (Boston IVF) for blood work and ultrasounds. I VASTLY PREFERRED the staff at the Waltham office. Ultrasound techs were friendly and communicative, phlebotimists were skilled and fast.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
I have excellent insurance with a $4000 deductible. after my deductible was satisfied, everything was free. Office visits were $300-$500, blood work and ultrasounds were usually around $150. Medications were thousands.
Describe Samuel Pauli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Boston IVF.
Definitely said not to do more than 2 embryos. On the fence about 1 vs 2.
Dr Pauli is great! He's soft spoken and kind of serious but extremely kind. He was happy to try new things. He called us after hours to give results to tests and spoke to us at length about all upcoming procedures. I trust him implicitly.
The nurses [at IVF New England] are wonderful. They are prompt with responding to your voice messages. I know some people don't like that you have to leave a voice mail and your clinic calls you back, but I prefer it sometimes. My only tiny gripe is calling after hours and dealing with the after hours team. They don't really know your back story so aren't really helpful.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr Pauli is great! He's soft spoken and kind of serious but extremely kind. He was happy to try new things. He called us after hours to give results to tests and spoke to us at length about all upcoming procedures. I trust him implicitly.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Don't be nervous to ask any question no matter what. He won't speak condescendingly and explains all angles of everything.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr Pauli calls us personally after hours to give results of tests. He once called while he was on vacation.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
We did an antagonist protocol with 150iu of Menopur and 300iu of Gonal-f. We switched to a Lupron trigger from an HCG trigger because I was at risk of OHSS. We had done this protocol before but it was my best cycle so we tried it again.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Boston IVF. (Assigned nurse: Lisa)
The nurses are wonderful. They are prompt with responding to your voice messages. I know some people don't like that you have to leave a voice mail and your clinic calls you back, but I prefer it sometimes. My only tiny gripe is calling after hours and dealing with the after hours team. They don't really know your back story so aren't really helpful.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
One weakness is that the satellite offices aren't as accessible as I'd like for monitoring appointments. It would be great if they opened the same time as the main clinic (It would be even greater if the main clinic opened about 30min earlier too) and if they were open on the weekends. The main clinic is over an hour away from me and the satellite is about a 20min drive so that's a bit of an irritation.
And one major gripe is that the clinic recently closed and moved locations. We weren't given much notice. I'm not the biggest fan of the new locations and I will miss the old clinic. Change is inevitable I guess, I just would have liked more notice and a bit more information on how we would be affected.
But I love my clinic. Everyone is so kind and they're very well organised. They're extremely responsive and I never felt like a number there.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Boston IVF.
Relatively efficient. A bit of a wait for blood work but nothing too crazy. The ultrasound techs are lovely.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
Everything is covered under my insurance. PGD testing is covered as a reimbursement.
Describe Samuel Pauli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Boston IVF.
We've never had the privilege of the choice but Dr Pauli said that because we're doing PGD testing he would recommend transferring one embryo.
What specific things went wrong at Boston IVF?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Boston IVF.
It was a mistake that was quickly rectified. They thought that my husband didn't have a sperm sample. But we definitely did. We were being billed for it. By the time I called back to dispute they'd already gotten the correct information.
He [Samuel Pauli] was willing to entertain my out of the box suggestions but I found his own approach very cut and dry. Admittedly I was not always right and when we did finally successfully conceive it was on a cycle that was very close to his original treatment plan. I liked that he was open to new research and always explained risks and benefits of what to try and if statistically it could make a difference. Personality wise he's very serious and my husband always joked that my humor was lost on him. He did always listen and considered our best interest and was encouraging that even with l we had been through that he was confident we would figure out something that would work and he was right.
Their practice [at IVF new England] is more patient focused but at times I felt like they wanted to use a cookie cutter approach instead of customizing a cycle for my needs. A lot of the 'out of the box' treatment we pursued was at my research and suggestion. However, Dr Pauli was always open to listening without judgment and while some things worked and some did not he was willing to try new things.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Much of what I wrote previously, he was willing to entertain my out of the box suggestions but I found his own approach very cut and dry. Admittedly I was not always right and when we did finally successfully conceive it was on a cycle that was very close to his original treatment plan. I liked that he was open to new research and always explained risks and benefits of what to try and if statistically it could make a difference. Personality wise he's very serious and my husband always joked that my humor was lost on him. He did always listen and considered our best interest and was encouraging that even with l we had been through that he was confident we would figure out something that would work and he was right.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Don't be afraid to ask questions and make suggestions if there's something you've read or something a friend has used that he hasn't recommended. He's very patient and informed and willing to work with his patients.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Their practice is more patient focused but at times I felt like they wanted to use a cookie cutter approach instead of customizing a cycle for my needs. A lot of the 'out of the box' treatment we pursued was at my research and suggestion. However, Dr Pauli was always open to listening without judgment and while some things worked and some did not he was willing to try new things.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
I can't remember specific names but my first cycle was just gonal f with trigger and fresh transfer. 12 eggs, 6 mature, 5 fertilized, 1SET, 2 frozen. Miscarried at 10 weeks. My second was a natural cycle frozen transfer of 2 embryos. Miscarried a singleton pregnancy at 7 weeks. My second retrieval we extended retrieval after trigger from 36 hours to 40 hours as my first cycle only half of the eggs were mature. We also added menopur & dexamethasone. 16 eggs retrieved , 13 mature, 12 fertilized. Fresh day 5 SET followed by chemical pregnancy. Next natural cycle FET of 2 embryos, negative result. Next natural cycle FET of 1 embryo, chemical pregnancy. Third retrieval we used a cycle I found from some doctor in NYC and although Dr Pauli didn't agree he let me try it and it was disastrous. It was heavy on menopur but I can't remember the other details. It took a long time to mature any eggs and at by retrieval i had 6 follicles but only 3 eggs and 2 was mature. Both fertilized and we did a day 2 transfer, negative result. After that we took a few months off. Our last retrieval we decided to do Human growth hormone injections and PGD testing. The cycle otherwise was similar to my second with gonal f (200) menopur (75), dexamethasone and HGH. He did an extended time between trigger and retrieval again. We ended up freezing all due to progesterone rise before retrieval and subsequent OHSS. Although i had only 13 follicles they were much better quality and 12 were mature eggs and all 12 fertilized. 7 were sent for PGD testing as 5 day embryos. 6 were genetically normal. A month later we did a natural FET of 2 embryos (an elective SET was strongly recommended but we decided to transfer 2 anyway). We had twin girls from that transfer, born healthy at 38w3. 17 months later we did another natural FET of one embryo. We did find out the gender prior to FET and are expecting a boy in 5 months.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Boston IVF. (Assigned nurse: Nicole, Becky)
They answered calls or responded to messages promptly and were considerate to my work schedule at the time. They were willing to answer questions and always caring and patient.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
Flexible and considerate with scheduling, prompt in answering messages, interested in your own outcome and not just statistics.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
My insurance fortunately covered almost everything but copays.
Dr Pauli was incredibly sweet and helpful. He always broke down our plans in the most simple way possible to avoid unnecessary stress for us. He answered all questions to the best of his ability and would often give us a few different options to make sure we were making the right choices for us. He was in touch regarding each procedure and what to expect next.
The front desk [at IVF New England] needs some work! They are often dismissive. The ladies who take blood are great! You see them more than anyone else. It's rare to have to wait. The women who prefer the internal ultrasounds are great too and give as much information as they are able to. [The nurses] were patient, excellent about calling back and extremely helpful with getting us sample meds when they realized we were paying out of pocket.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr Pauli was incredibly sweet and helpful. He always broke down our plans in the most simple way possible to avoid unnecessary stress for us. He answered all questions to the best of his ability and would often give us a few different options to make sure we were making the right choices for us. He was in touch regarding each procedure and what to expect next.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
He's amazing. He is working for YOU and honestly wants to help you achieve what you want. He's patient, easy to talk to and genuinely interested in your personal story.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
He's so sensitive and happy to answer all questions. He also made personal phone calls to us when we had a miscarriage and other difficulties
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
We tried very painful (for me) iui's and when we started to run out of donor sperm doctor Pauli suggested IVF. My wife carried our first child using the donor and we really wanted them to be biological siblings.
I started ivf - birth control for a couple weeks, then injections (up to three a day) and then egg retrieval. He retrieved 12 eggs, 9 were excellent and we used 4 total trying. Our first ivf ended in a negative test, the next we used two eggs and got a positive, but had a miscarriage at 7.5 weeks and now I am 8 months pregnant with the fourth egg -- our son.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Boston IVF. (Assigned nurse: Loreen )
They were patient, excellent about calling back and extremely helpful with getting us sample meds when they realized we were paying out of pocket.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
The front desk needs some work! They are often dismissive.
The ladies who take blood are great! You see them more than anyone else. It's rare to have to wait. The women who prefer the internal ultrasounds are great too and give as much information as they are able to.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
I can't even talk about it. We paid so much because we are military and they don't cover fertility treatments. It's still a sore subject
What specific things went wrong at Boston IVF?
Lost paperwork
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Boston IVF.
Just some lost paperwork and some confusion between my wife and I (often they had her paperwork from precious pregnant and not mine or vice versa).
I felt like he [Dr. Samuel Pauli] did a great job. He follows the western medical model and as a patient I needed to remember that he was going from that philosophy which isn't the whole picture. I have been considering returning for another cycle though. The fact that he did most of my surgeries helped me trust him with understanding my specific fertility treatment needs as complications arose.
The clinic [IVF New England] is organized and the staff are personable considering how busy it is...All of them became like family I was there so often for a while. There was only one bad experience with someone who was either covering or new, but didn't stay or didn't last because of complaints? She met with us to let us know about not finding a heart beat and she was brutal and awful. I never saw her after that. All of the regular nurses are really great. No complaints whatsoever.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
I felt like he did a great job. He follows the western medical model and as a patient I needed to remember that he was going from that philosophy which isn't the whole picture. I have been considering returning for another cycle though. The fact that he did most of my surgeries helped me trust him with understanding my specific fertility treatment needs as complications arose.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
1. The body needs time to recover and heal in between surgeries. Sometimes focusing on the body clock medical model although has evidence behind it, may not be paying attention to the need for recovery time.
2. Get to know a few more other approaches that are also evidence based for informed referral practices because ivf treatment really requires an interdisciplinary approach and model.
Specifically - for emotional and psychological support: Music therapy and other creative arts therapies/ expressive therapies.
Dietician should definitely be a part of ivf treatment as well as acupuncture for sure! If I had not had these areas covered in my treatment with Tamie, I would have definitely been prescribed more medical model medicine, or surgeries and not found the root of the issues I was facing.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr. Pauli was very compassionate as well as informed and worked with the data he had within his area and philosophy of expertise from the Western model.
He explained things clearly and also was able to listen and I felt heard. He engaged and participated in my treatment decisions from day 1. It was complicated with fibroids and he used trusted second opinions and referred me to Tamie as well.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
2 x fibroid removal surgeries, 3 hours long each. 1 or 2 months between each.
1 cycle, gonotropin? and the other injections: one for egg quality and one to control the cycle.
egg retrieval with 2 eggs, successful positive test
unsuccessful pregnancy
2 natural egg transfers, 1 at a time. a few months between each other with progesterone.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Boston IVF. (Assigned nurse: Liz)
All of them became like family I was there so often for a while.
There was only one bad experience with someone who was either covering or new, but didn't stay or didn't last because of complaints? She met with us to let us know about not finding a heart beat and she was brutal and awful.
I never saw her after that. All of the regular nurses are really great. No complaints whatsoever.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
The clinic is organized and the staff are personable considering how busy it is.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
Dr. Pauli has great bedside manners. He truly listens and cares about the patients that he is trying to help. If it's a viable solution, he will help you try it. In my case I was diagnosed with "Unexplained Infertility" and had 3 failed IVF cycles before seeking help from Dr. Pauli. Knowing what I know now, I would definitely have gone to him first!..If you have done some research on your situation and believe it will help, please share with him. This will help him help you.
My first doctor (Dr. G) was a bit hard to reach during my first IVF cycle. Since I was new to this process, I had more questions. I did not have the same trust level with Dr. G. as I did with Dr. Pauli. At times, I felt I was more a number to Dr. G. and when things failed, there were no new information that was gleamed and used for the next cycle...Strength: Very well organized, the doctors and nurses are specialized in their areas and I'm very confident in their abilities. They do respect your privacy, which is extremely important in this field. Weakness: With my first doctor (Dr. G.) that I worked with, it was hard to reach her directly. Had to go through the nurses and waited days before she contacted me back. However, this may be doctor specific.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr. Pauli has great bedside manners. He truly listens and cares about the patients that he is trying to help. If it's a viable solution, he will help you try it. In my case I was diagnosed with "Unexplained Infertility" and had 3 failed IVF cycles before seeking help from Dr. Pauli. Knowing what I know now, I would definitely have gone to him first!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
If you have done some research on your situation and believe it will help, please share with him. This will help him help you.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
The fourth IVF cycle was going to be our last attempt for my husband and me for financial, emotional, and physical reasons. Our first Fertility doctor had told us that she (the doctor) had tried all the protocols that she would on me and she would just go back to one of the previous protocols for our fourth IVF cycle. At that point we felt our doctor had given up on us and it was just a shot in the dark, if the next IVF cycle would work. At that point, my husband and I decided we needed a break from all of the Fertility treatments and then switched to a new Fertility doctor, Dr. Samuel Pauli.
Dr. Samuel Pauli helped us with our fertility treatment. He listened to what research and knowledge I gained from my failed IVF cycles and tailored the treatment for us. The fourth and last IVF cycle (the first IVF cycle with Dr. Pauli) was a Success! This in itself speaks to how wonderful Dr. Pauli is at his profession. We felt he doesn’t see us as just another one of his patients. He truly cared about us.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
The protocol involved following the natural ovulation cycle and used heavy hormone stimulation (Gonal F and Ganirelix) to increase the most amount of eggs that can be retrieved during ovulation that was triggered with the trigger shot. Then I believe with only 6 eggs retrieved, ICSI was performed.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Boston IVF.
Dr. Pauli's nurse are very caring and showed compassion. They are a very organized and supportive team. They answered my questions as best as they can and understood this was not an easy process to go through.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
Strength: Very well organized, the doctors and nurses are specialized in their areas and I'm very confident in their abilities. They do respect your privacy, which is extremely important in this field.
Weakness: With my first doctor (Dr. G.) that I worked with, it was hard to reach her directly. Had to go through the nurses and waited days before she contacted me back. However, this may be doctor specific.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
The IVF cycles were around $20K per round.
What specific things went wrong at Boston IVF?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Boston IVF.
My first doctor (Dr. G) was a bit hard to reach during my first IVF cycle. Since I was new to this process, I had more questions. I did not have the same trust level with Dr. G. as I did with Dr. Pauli. At times, I felt I was more a number to Dr. G. and when things failed, there were no new information that was gleamed and used for the next cycle.
Though he doesn't have the warmest bedside manner, he did explain everything very thoroughly gave me the opportunity to get all my questions answered...He was the second doctor I went to. I was unsatisfied that my first doctor was recommending the same course of treatment after 3 failed fresh transferred and 2 failed frozen transfers. Dr. Pauli on the other hand recommended genetic testing of the embryos, which I believe was the key to success for us.
My big complaint with the [IVF New England] nurses was that I had a very heavy bleeding event at the beginning of my pregnancy. I assumed I had a miscarriage but didn't know what I should do. I called the nurses line and left a message and they did not call me back until many hours later. When she called she asked me if I had been to the ER and then told me to go. Amazingly, I found out in the ER that the fetus was fine. I think they should do a better job of returning urgent calls right away. I was very unhappy with that experience, since I spent half the day laying on the couch thinking I lost the baby.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
I am very happy with Dr. Pauli and recommended him to a friend who also had success. He was the second doctor I went to. I was unsatisfied that my first doctor was recommending the same course of treatment after 3 failed fresh transfered and 2 failed frozen transfers. Dr. Pauli on the other hand recommended genetic testing of the embryos, which I believe was the key to success for us.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Though he doesn't have the warmest bedside manner, he did explain everything very thoroughly gave me the opportunity to get all my questions answered.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
I don't remember specifics of the successful cycle, except that PGS was done to genetically screen the embryos.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Boston IVF.
My big complaint with the nurses was that I had a very heavy bleeding event at the beginning of my pregnancy. I assumed I had a miscarriage but didn't know what I should do. I called the nurses line and left a message and they did not call me back until many hours later. When she called she asked me if I had been to the ER and then told me to go. Amazingly, I found out in the ER that the fetus was fine. I think they should do a better job of returning urgent calls right away. I was very unhappy with that experience, since I spent half the day laying on the couch thinking I lost the baby.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
The clinic is fine, it's run well and efficiently. I have no complaints.
What specific things went wrong at Boston IVF?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Boston IVF.
They forgot to call in a prescription to the pharmacy for a clomid challenge test. I had forgotten to take the clomid on time anyway, so it ended up being my fault that I had to delay the test to the next month.
Dr. Pauli is fantastic. We had male factor infertility. He did not overpromise results. He explained all our options in detail and was not overly rosy about it. When he did procedures like the saline ultrasound and embryo transfer, it didn't hurt at all, unlike the previous doctor I had who did my HSG. It's been almost three years since I've seen him, so I may have glossed over some negative things, since we have a baby now, but we plan
Nurses [at Boston IVF] were organized, had a sense of humor, especially with the transvaginal ultrasounds would could be awkward otherwise. Sometimes the blood draws & scans felt like you were just a number, but you kind of are, in a good way. They do this all day, so they know how to get in and get out without doing anything painful.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr. Pauli is fantastic. We had male factor infertility. He did not overpromise results. He explained all our options in detail and was not overly rosy about it. When he did procedures like the saline ultrasound and embryo transfer, it didn't hurt at all, unlike the previous doctor I had who did my HSG. It's been almost three years since I've seen him, so I may have glossed over some negative things, since we have a baby now, but we plan to go back to him when we want to grow our family again.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Ask him all your questions, including asking what he thinks you should do. He has your best interest in mind - balancing the impact on your body with the likelihood of successful live birth.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
I was treated with respect at this high volume clinic. It was reassuring to know that all of the procedures were mundane for them because they do them so often. Scheduling was amazing, I could come in early in the morning, get my blood tests and scans done right away and be on my way. Like a well-oiled machine. It was exactly the balance I wanted.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
We had a pretty standard treatment of IVF with ICSI. I ovulate normally so it was straightforward. It's been 3.5 years so I forget a lot of it. I was on lupron for a while, then something else was added that had to be refrigerated. I was being monitored closely for overstimulation because that happened when my former OBGYN in Indiana prescribed me clomid. I had no problems with Dr. Pauli's treatment, and it worked in one round to bring us our daughter, probably a factor of my young age and it being a sperm issue.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Boston IVF.
Nurses were organized, had a sense of humor, especially with the transvaginal ultrasounds would could be awkward otherwise. Sometimes the blood draws & scans felt like you were just a number, but you kind of are, in a good way. They do this all day, so they know how to get in and get out without doing anything painful.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
This is a high volume clinic. They have early morning availability for lab tests, which is really helpful when you are working full time. The only thing I felt was lacking was the psychological support. That was just one phone call from a nurse while I was at work, and she left a message, but I could not reach anyone after work hours. I could have used an evening call.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
I had a high deductible plan, so once I paid my deductible that was it. When I saw the retail prices of treatments and visits that my insurer paid they weren't as high as I thought they would be.
In the one successful round we had, we learned the baby's heart had stopped beating at our last ultrasound before being released to our ob. Dr Pauli [at IVF New England] made sure to schedule my d & c for a day he was performing transfers. À Year after I left his care, I learned I was pregnant spontaneously. I called the clinic to let dr Pauli know, leaving a voicemail not expecting to hear anything. He called me back shortly thereafter and once again was so kind. The fact that we were unable to conceive under his care was not his fault.
In the one successful round we had, we learned the baby's heart had stopped beating at our last ultrasound before being released to our ob. Dr Pauli [at IVF New England] made sure to schedule my d & c for a day he was performing transfers. À Year after I left his care, I learned I was pregnant spontaneously. I called the clinic to let dr Pauli know, leaving a voicemail not expecting to hear anything. He called me back shortly thereafter and once again was so kind. The fact that we were unable to conceive under his care was not his fault.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr Pauli was great to us. When things didn't work out the way any of expected it to, he was the one to tell us, sometimes going out of his way. One time he even made sure to catch me in the hall before going in for my transfer to give me some not so great news. There were times he called me instead of the nursing staff. I really appreciate that he went out of his way.
In the one successful round we had, we learned the baby's heart had stopped beating at our last ultrasound before being released to our ob. Dr Pauli made sure to schedule my d & c for a day he was performing transfers.
À Year after I left his care, I learned I was pregnant spontaneously. I called the clinic to let dr Pauli know, leaving a voicemail not expecting to hear anything. He called me back shortly thereafter and once again was so kind.
The fact that we were unable to conceive under his care was not his fault.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Take a deep breath and know that it won't be a smooth ride, but Dr P will have your back
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr Pauli is the kindest, most compassionate doctor. He dealt with us during one of the most difficult times in our lives. He always treated us kindly and gently
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
We did 6 rounds of Ivf / icsi. I don't remember the details - it was 4 years ago and a lot has happened since
Describe your experience with your nurse at Boston IVF. (Assigned nurse: Nicole)
She was so sweet. I only met her in person once and she gave me a huge hug
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
Everyone that worked there was kind and professional. I particularly liked the woman at the front desk (Kathleen) and one of the ultrasound techs (Deb)
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
[Dr. Pauli was] Professional, caring, warm, honest, direct, informative. Broke things down and spoke in a way we could understand. He also made phone calls after every cycle good or bad to touch base. He seemed genuinely happy on the news of my successful pregnancy thanks to his help. Was very invested in my care. We will forever be thankful for his service to our family. Not a days goes by when I don't think about the miracle of my twins and the many ways that they complete our family w 3 kids.
Location [of IVF New England] worked well for me. Was really lucky to have a first rate option in my same town, as I noticed that others traveled good distances to come there. I can only recall strengths and have no weaknesses to report. I will say that with the distance of time, my recollection of the experience has faded....I think her name was Nicole, but I'm not 100% sure I'm remembering that right. She was fantastic, as were all others filling in when she wasn't available. When I was struggling with things she was emotional on the phone with me and it was clear that she was very invested in my care. I am so thankful for the nurses as well as Dr. Pauli.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Professional, caring, warm, honest, direct, informative. Broke things down and spoke in a way we could understand. He also made phone calls after every cycle good or bad to touch base. He seemed genuinely happy on the news of my successful pregnancy thanks to his help. Was very invested in my care. We will forever be thankful for his service to our family. Not a days goes by when I don't think about the miracle of my twins and the many ways that they complete our family w 3 kids.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
I have chosen not to talk about my treatment with others, which makes that unlikely. With that said, I think I would say to any fertility patients to prepare for an emotional journey that may not be successful. I feel very lucky that my treatment worked because the stats/numbers were not on my side.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
I was very comfortable with Dr. Pauli. He was honest, caring and direct. I also felt like since I was in his care for a good amount of time we developed a comfort level and relationship that helped the relationship feel very human.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
I really don't remember specifics. I will say that I had a miscarriage at 12 weeks with one cycle and had success with the very next cycle. The first 2 cycles resulted in adjustments that led to success with the 3rd and 4th cycles of IVF.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Boston IVF. (Assigned nurse: Nicole )
I think her name was Nicole, but I'm not 100% sure I'm remembering that right. She was fantastic, as were all others filling in when she wasn't available. When I was struggling with things she was emotional on the phone with me and it was clear that she was very invested in my care. I am so thankful for the nurses as well as Dr. Pauli.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
Location worked well for me. Was really lucky to have a first rate option in my same town, as I noticed that others traveled good distances to come there. I can only recall strengths and have no weaknesses to report. I will say that with the distance of time, my recollection of the experience has faded.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
There were plenty of costs due to some insurance changes, but we changed our insurance so that the more expensive IVF procedures were covered.
He [Dr. Samuel Pauli] is honest while also being direct and empathetic. He tailored my treatment to me vs sticking to a protocol. He was open to all my ideas and suggestions. He was willing to perform tests I had researched. He remained hopeful which gave us hope...Do you research and tell him ideas you have to alter your course of treatment. He will be honest with you and is willing to try knew things to see if they improve your outcome
The [Boston IVF] check in process for monitoring needs improvement. They should go by actual appt times vs just a sign in sheet. I find that patients show up whenever they want because of the sign up sheet and it causes long wait times...Dr. Pauli tailored my treatment to me, instead of sticking to a basic protocol. He was honest with us while also being empathetic. His team checked in on me regularly and were quick to respond.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
He is honest while also being direct and empathetic. He tailored my treatment to me vs sticking to a protocol. He was open to all my ideas and suggestions. He was willing to perform tests I had researched. He remained hopeful which gave us hope.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Do you research and tell him ideas you have to alter your course of treatment. He will be honest with you and is willing to try knew things to see if they improve your outcome
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr. Pauli tailored my treatment to me, instead of sticking to a basic protocol. He was honest with us while also being empathetic. His team checked in on me regularly and were quick to respond.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
We did the antagonist protocol twice with poor results. We switched to a long lupron protocol and had better results. We got our first blastocyst using this protocol. Prior to that we had only had day 3 embryos
Describe your experience with your nurse at Boston IVF. (Assigned nurse: Kjirsten)
Kjirsten is amazing. She responds to me in a very timely manner. Never judges me or acts annoyed by my questions. She is empathetic and kind when she knows she is delivering bad news. She calls to check in after procedures. She keeps me abreast about insurance approval, my treatment course, and makes sure i have all the medications i need.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
The check in process for monitoring needs improvement. They should go by actual appt times vs just a sign in sheet. I find that patients show up whenever they want because of the sign up sheet and it causes long wait times
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
Probably about 2k. The medications have cost almost 6k from the pharmacy
he [Dr. Samuel Pauli] may not come off as the warmest doctor in the practice, but he is highly skilled, and takes you as his patient into consideration with all of his plans...after working with him for several months we appreciated his level of in depth explanation and his approach to our case...He treated us with care and respect, took the time to answer any questions we had, and explained what our other doctor never took the time to review with us.
The clinic [Boston IVF] is clean, welcoming, and comfortable. This experience can be very overwhelming and it is nice that they have so many different satellite offices to fit your needs. I always felt comfortable in all locations...The nursing staff is always so great. You see them often through all parts of your cycle so the emotions are all over the place. They are always upbeat, informative and helpful...It [monitoring] was efficient and quick
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr. Pauli came highly recommended to us after a not so positive experience with another doctor at another clinic. Upon our first meeting he put our minds at ease with his overall knowledge and handling of our case. He treated us with care and respect, took the time to answer any questions we had, and explained what our other doctor never took the time to review with us. He is extremely educated in the fertility process, so it can come off as cold at first but after working with him for several months we appreciated his level of in depth explanation and his approach to our case. Not only would I recommend him to my best friend, I did!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Understand he may not come off as the warmest doctor in the practice, but he is highly skilled, and takes you as his patient into consideration with all of his plans.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr Pauli explain each procedure thoroughly and answered all of our questions. He gave his opinions and listened to ours.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Boston IVF.
The nursing staff is always so great. You see them often through all parts of your cycle so the emotions are all over the place. They are always upbeat, informative and helpful.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
The clinic is clean, welcoming, and comfortable. This experience can be very overwhelming and it is nice that they have so many different satellite offices to fit your needs. I always felt comfortable in all locations
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Boston IVF.
It was efficient and quick
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
Most of my care was covered under my health insurance plan
He [Dr. Pauli] explained the steps and gave us options. Dr. Pauli was on our side from the beginning. He spent a great deal of time arguing our case to the insurance company, who wanted more control of our procedures. After our first round of IVF (which failed) he reached out to his colleagues for advice, as he was unsure of how to handle our rarely seen situation. Upon their advice, he changed the protocol - which ultimately led to success!...
I was entirely happy with my experience at IVF New England - Lexington! I would recommend patients listen carefully to their instructions and follow them thoroughly. Be flexible and expect to take some time off from work...I received many voicemails with specific information. They returned my calls in a timely manner and patiently reexplained anything I did not understand. They were calm, organized, and helpful...
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
I have two beautiful children. We had heartbreak along the way, but could not be happier now. Dr. Pauli is a huge part of our happiness. I highly recommend him and his team. He explained the steps and gave us options.
Dr. Pauli was on our side from the beginning. He spent a great deal of time arguing our case to the insurance company, who wanted more control of our procedures. After our first round of IVF (which failed) he reached out to his colleagues for advice, as he was unsure of how to handle our rarely seen situation. Upon their advice, he changed the protocol - which ultimately led to success!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
There are lots of appointments to attend. Make sure your schedule can be flexible.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
I was happy with my care. I felt Dr. Pauli and his nurses were very helpful and wanted me to succeed.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
Our first IVF attempt was negative. It resulted with a condition Dr. Pauli had knew little about. (We found VERY few resources about it on the internet). He then changed the protocol. We were successful with the change!
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Boston IVF.
I received many voicemails with specific information. They returned my calls in a timely manner and patiently reexplained anything I did not understand. They were calm, organized, and helpful.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
I was entirely happy with my experience at IVF New England - Lexington! I would recommend patients listen carefully to their instructions and follow them thoroughly. Be flexible and expect to take some time off from work.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
Dr Pauli was always willing to discuss the process with us, including having materials for frequently asked questions and drawing out some answers to help us understand better. He obviously thoroughly reviewed our paperwork before we showed up and was always prepared...The clinic was great. It was a little unnerving the day of the egg retrieval to see others going in for the procedure and seeing others coming out unconscious from the sedation. So I would perhaps suggest more seclusion in the waiting area. However, the nurses were fantastic and remembered me from one procedure to the next, which really impressed me.
My primary nurse would not leave the office until she had called me back if I had left a message. I was always calling to see if results were in and wasn't very patient. However, she was very patient with me and told me I could call as often as I wanted. She sent me home with very clear instructions on the medications...The clinic was great. It was a little unnerving the day of the egg retrieval to see others going in for the procedure and seeing others coming out unconscious from the sedation. So I would perhaps suggest more seclusion in the waiting area. However, the nurses were fantastic and remembered me from one procedure to the next, which really impressed me.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr Pauli was always wiling to discuss the process with us, including having materials for frequently asked questions and drawing out some answers to help us understand better. He obviously thoroughly reviewed our paperwork before we showed up and was always prepared.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Don't let anyone tell you that you just need to remain calm. That's BS. Also be prepared to not find out why you are having issues with miscarriages and conceiving....unfortunately unexplained infertility is common.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Dr Pauli has very good bed side manner and is always willing to answer questions.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Boston IVF.
My primary nurse would not leave the office until she had called me back if I had left a message. I was always calling to see if results were in and wasn't very patient. However, she was very patient with me and told me I could call as often as I wanted. She sent me home with very clear instructions on the medications.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
The clinic was great. It was a little unnerving the day of the egg retrieval to see others going in for the procedure and seeing others coming out unconscious from the sedation. So I would perhaps suggest more seclusion in the waiting area. However, the nurses were fantastic and remembered me from one procedure to the next, which really impressed me.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
Just my copay of $300....Dr Pauli's team handled the rest with insurance.
He [Dr. Pauli] clearly cares about his patients and doing his job well. He always fully explains the procedures and gave an frank assessment of the likelihood of success. I appreciate that he was never alarmist or made attempts to offer cultural/social speculations about our infertility and often offered a more optimistic assessment of our challenges than what I was personally worried about...
The [IVF New England - Lex] clinic is extremely efficient and I never had doubts that something had fallen through the cracks. They were the ones that helped us navigate insurance. In fact, I only had to call my insurance once throughout my protocol, and all other problems/payments were handled directly by the clinic. It allowed us to focus on treatment rather than payment of services...
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
He clearly cares about his patients and doing his job well. He always fully explains the procedures and gave an frank assessment of the likelihood of success. I appreciate that he was never alarmist or made attempts to offer cultural/social speculations about our infertility and often offered a more optimistic assessment of our challenges than what I was personally worried about.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
You do not actually see/talk to the doctor as often as you might like.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
He was very open and willing to discuss management of managing pain/anxiety and would often call to check in when there were major events/changes in the cycle
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Boston IVF.
I saw/talked to the nurses more than I saw/talked to the doctor. The nurses are extremely well organized and I would never have to follow up on a request or question, they were always taken care of when promised. The nurses were also very open about answering any question you might have.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
The clinic is extremely efficient and I never had doubts that something had fallen through the cracks. They were the ones that helped us navigate insurance. In fact, I only had to call my insurance once throughout my protocol, and all other problems/payments were handled directly by the clinic. It allowed us to focus on treatment rather than payment of services.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
Discussed treatment in detail, answered all questions honestly. He [Dr. Pauli] called on several occasions to discuss results over the phone to communicate immediately without waiting for my next appointment. Went through the process step by step. Worked out treatments when i responded slowly...He increased my meds as needed based on bloodwork and ultrasounds to get the best response for my cycles...He called me personally after several procedures and results you discuss.
Thought ivf new England did a great job overall with me as a patient. Was not a huge fan of the financial team, but they worked with Boston ivf. I thought they could have a better bedside manner. I would recommended them as a clinic and go back without hesitation....[nursing staff] They all were wonderful and supportive even when i called with questions all the time....He [Dr. Pauli] called on several occasions to discuss results over the phone to communicate immediately without waiting for my next appointment.
How was your experience with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Discussed treatment in detail, answered all questions honestly. He called on several occasions to discuss results over the phone to communicate immediately without waiting for my next appointment. Went through the process step by step. Worked out treatments when i responded slowly.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
Ask questions, he will answer them
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF?
He called me personally after several procedures and results you discuss.
Describe the protocols Samuel Pauli used in your cycles at Boston IVF and their degree of success.
He increased my meds as needed based on bloodwork and ultrasounds to get the best response for my cycles.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Boston IVF. (Assigned nurse: Paige)
They all were wonderful and supportive even when i called with questions all the time.
Describe your experience with Boston IVF.
Thought ivf new England did a great job overall with me as a patient. Was not a huge fan of the financial team, but they worked with Boston ivf. I thought they could have a better bedside manner. I would recommended them as a clinic and go back without hesitation.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Samuel Pauli at Boston IVF.
Most of mine was covered by insurance. I only had deductibles, a few copays and cost of pgs testing to cover on my own
Describe Samuel Pauli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Boston IVF.
Insurance only allowed one embryo transfer at a time,