[Dr. Ursula Balthazar] is upbeat, kind and positive...remembers the important things...extremely knowledgeable about current research...explained next steps for all potential outcomes so we knew what to expect either way...would explain things in a way we understood and answer any questions we had...made time for us.
[Aspire Fertility (formerly RMA of Texas)] works hard to create an environment of inclusion and positivity...facilities are top notch and they have an in-office lab, which makes all of the results much quicker...Lisa, Amy & Michelle were all amazing...remembered me by name and were always kind...answer my questions and call me same day any time I would message them...professional and organized
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. B is upbeat, kind and positive. She remembers the important things and is extremely knowledgeable about current research. She always explained next steps for all potential outcomes so we knew what to expect either way. She let me express fear and joy and all the in-betweens. She would explain things in a way we understood and answer any questions we had. She always made time for us.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions or the “why” behind protocol decisions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
I saw Dr. Balthazar at every appointment. She remembered my name, my journey, and was always receptive to my feelings. She would take her time to explain everything including next steps so I knew either way what was next. She always made time for my questions. Overall, she met me right where I was and created an environment that safe, inviting, positive. Dr. B and her team are amazing!
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
Before beginning she reviewed our SHG, hysteroscopy, and ran labs. Our first IVF cycle we followed a typical protocol as well as a “transfer fresh, test the rest” plan. Our fresh transfer was unsuccessful and we had no euploids (PGT normal) but some mosaics. She changed our protocol to a duo-stim with menopur and retrieved from a different time in my cycle. We had better results the second retrieval. We also did an ERA and three months of lupron to suppress potential endo. In the third month of lupron depot we repeated the hysteroscopy and removed two small polyps. The transfer after all of that was successful. I think lupron made a big difference.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Lisa, medical assistant & Amy/Michelle, nurses)
Lisa, Amy & Michelle were all amazing. They remembered me by name and were always kind. They would answer my questions and call me same day any time I would message them. They were professional and organized. They called in scripts and did everything necessary to make this process smooth.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
From the first meeting with Dr. Balthazar, we knew we wanted to move forward with this clinic. She was kind and prepared. Aspire works hard to create an environment of inclusion and positivity. Their facilities are top notch and they have an in-office lab, which makes all of the results much quicker.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
aspire always accommodated our need for an early appointment time. The wait was never more than 20 minutes for monitoring. We saw our doctor at every appointment, which was important to us after coming from a clinic that we only saw random doctors during procedures. Appointments were never rushed and I always had a chance to ask questions. When needed, we would move to a meeting room to go over meds, protocol calendars, etc. and ask any remaining questions with the nurse well. Our team was committed and we would see the same people every time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I believe one round of IVF with PGT-A for all embryos was about $16,000 not including meds. We did get a teacher discount and a discount for an affiliation with Carrot. Embryo transfers were about $1,700 and would get cheaper with further transfers.
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
We were encouraged to transfer one embryo at a time. We agreed with this due to risk factors.
Dr. Balthazar is so so so friendly. She’s very encouraging. I’m a plus size person and she never brought up my weight/bmi during the consult (which I was nervous for). She has a way of making your fears drift away. Dr. Balthazar talks you through each test and exam so there are no surprises and is eager to listen and out to rest any concerns I might have. My favorite thing about her so far is that she explains what she sees in a manner you will understand.
Then [Aspire Fertility] clinic as a whole is very well put together and clean! The ladies at the front desk are super nice. The prelude app is a great tool to use for schedule reminders and messaging too. The clinic is always punctual and I’m seen at the right time and out of there in a timely manner. I have never had any issues with scheduling as of yet...The nurses always answer quickly within the same day I leave them a message! Over the phone they’re very friendly and easy to talk to.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar is so so so friendly. She’s very encouraging. I’m a plus size person and she never brought up my weight/bmi during the consult (which I was nervous for). She has a way of making your fears drift away. Dr. Balthazar talks you through each test and exam so there are no surprises and is eager to listen and out to rest any concerns I might have. My favorite thing about her so far is that she explains what she sees in a manner you will understand.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
You don’t need to worry. Feel free to drop the stress at the door! Also make sure to ask questions. Dr. Balthazar listens very well and will gladly answer any question.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Everyone was so sweet as soon as we walked in. Dr. Balthazar was especially friendly and made sure to make me feel comfortable talking through the process. It felt like she was really trying to get to know me, and not like I was a number in the system.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
I’m still in the beginning stages of our journey at Aspire! I’ve only gone in a couple times now, but Dr. Balthazar seems to have a good plan that my husband and I feel comfortable with! So far we’ve had labs, genetic screening, semen analysis, and an HSG (hysterosalpingogram) done. She wants to rule out any other reasons we’re having issues. They all came out clear and good, except that I have PCOS which we all knew beforehand. She just had extra confirmation!
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I mainly communicate with the nurses through the prelude fertility app that the patient portal is connected to! It’s a great tool I can use without having to worry about missing calls. The nurses always answer quickly within the same day I leave them a message! Over the phone they’re very friendly and easy to talk to.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
The clinic as a whole is very well put together and clean! The ladies at the front desk are super nice.
The prelude app is a great tool to use for schedule reminders and messaging too.
The clinic is always punctual and I’m seen at the right time and out of there in a timely manner.
I have never had any issues with scheduling as of yet.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
So far I haven’t had to pay out of pocket for anything. My PPO covers all testing for now. I only pay my copay with each visit. I haven’t undergone any treatment yet so I can’t say anymore.
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
We have not had to discuss anything having to do with IVF just yet.
Dr. B is friendly cheerful and knowledgeable. She will listen to your concerns and address them. She seems confident and competent. The only thing I would say is that she seems so cheerful and positive that I don’t know if she is giving me false hope! Ha! That is yet to be determined. I’d rather someone be blunt and honest with me than give me false hope. But that’s a personal choice...She addressed my concerns. I felt heard and encouraged.
The [Aspire Fertility] clinic is for the most part well organized. The layout of the office is clean and private. The equipment in the facility are nice and I love the warmed wet wipes after invasive procedures. I love that the doctor lets me get dressed before sitting and talking. It’s a big difference talking face to face compared to naked with my probs tree parts on display. The clinic has done A phenomenal of making me feel comfortable and less anxious
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. B is friendly cheerful and knowledgeable. She will listen to your concerns and address them. She seems confident and competent. The only thing I would say is that she seems so cheerful and positive that I don’t know if she is giving me false hope! Ha! That is yet to be determined. I’d rather someone be blunt and honest with me than give me false hope. But that’s a personal choice.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Ask her ALL the questions that come up. Write them down and bring to the office. She will answer them all and not rush you through them and never make you feel like any of the questions are stupid. She is fantadtic
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar was very cheerful and friendly and answered all my questions. She addressed my concerns. I felt heard and encouraged.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
We are in the midst of my first IVF cycle right now. I am on suppression currently.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy)
Amy is fantastic and answers all my questions.
It would be helpful to be given a handout of a timeline to expect for IVF. There are a lot of components and it gets very confusing and anxiety producing not knowing what comes next.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
The clinic is for the most part well organized. The layout of the office is clean and private. The equipment in the facility are nice and I love the warmed wet wipes after invasive procedures. I love that the doctor lets me get dressed before sitting and talking. It’s a big difference talking face to face compared to naked with my probs tree parts on display. The clinic has done A phenomenal of making me feel comfortable and less anxious
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
The IVF cycle is very expensive. But that’s true everywhere.
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
For my case, she prefers single embryo transfer
What specific things went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to order appropriate test
Failed to consider drug intolerance
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
There were a few non major hiccups that can happen anywhere but they were fixed immediately and appropriately. I don’t hold this against the clinic at all. Just being honest.
Dr. Balthazar was always chipper and easy to connect with. Referred to us by name and encouraged and explained every step. She was always gentle and would talk you through each procedure or ultrasound so you were comfortable and aware. I never felt any pain with pelvic exams and felt safe in the environment she created.
The biggest struggle [with Aspire Fertility] was in the patient portal you cannot directly reply to a message so it makes it hard when communicating because you can only message with a doctors team not a specific person. This I found difficult when messaging the embryologist or financial dept...Wonderful and quick to respond to questions. Before the days of patient portal she would respond to emails at 1/2 AM when we woke up before retrieval with issues. Always there to reassure and educate us.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar was always chipper and easy to connect with. Referred to us by name and encouraged and explained every step. She was always gentle and would talk you through each procedure or ultrasound so you were comfortable and aware. I never felt any pain with pelvic exams and felt safe in the environment she created.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
She talks fast but is always willing to answer questions so don’t be afraid to just ask and she will spend as much time as needed to make sure you understand every
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. B always referred to us by name, knew our case specifically prior to walking in the room and was easy and enjoyable to talk with.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
With our course of treatment everything was by the book for frozen embryo transfer I started with birth control then went to estrogen orally after an increase in this I started progesterone shots right before transfer and increased from 1 ml to 2 ml since my levels were low. When this was causing too much pain she switched me to 1 ml and a vaginal progesterone that helped with injection pain.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy )
Wonderful and quick to respond to questions. Before the days of patient portal she would respond to emails at 1/2 AM when we woke up before retrieval with issues. Always there to reassure and educate us.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
The biggest struggle was in the patient portal you cannot directly reply to a message so it makes it hard when communicating because you can only message with a doctors team not a specific person. This I found difficult when messaging the embryologist or financial dept.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
RIVF 25,000
FET 4,000
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I trust her implicitly and value her expertise on how many embryos to implant
Dr. Balthazar was extremely competent in her practice. She was able to explain procedures and decisions to us in a way that we could understand. If things went differently than expected, we adjusted course and the rationale was always explained to us in a way that we understood...Nothing felt sugar coated or watered down, but there was so much compassion and understanding. She was also always sincerely hopeful and engaged in our care.
The cost of our cycle was always explained to us in detail. We met with someone specifically about the cost and financing...She [our nurse] always took the time to answer all of our questions and make sure we understood everything...The [Aspire Fertility] clinic is full of caring and compassionate staff. Everyone is willing to help however they can. It is easy to get reach your fertility team and easy to schedule appointments.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar was extremely competent in her practice. She was able to explain procedures and decisions to us in a way that we could understand. If things went differently than expected, we adjusted course and the rationale was always explained to us in a way that we understood. She also had a very positive energy but blended it perfectly with complete honesty. We had a couple miscarriages in our first cycle, and she was extremely compassionate with us while still being honest with us. Nothing felt sugar coated or watered down, but there was so much compassion and understanding. She was also always sincerely hopeful and engaged in our care. You didn’t feel like she was rushing in or out. Dr. Balthazar took the time with us to make sure we understood and were comfortable with our plan of care. She was truly one of the few reasons we were emotionally able to continue through our treatment until we were able to become pregnant.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
The healthcare team was wonderful at treating you like a patient. They were invested in giving us the best care and the best outcomes. All of the members of the team gave us as much time as we needed to understand, and at times with unexpected outcomes, accept the information before trying to move forward. The care was truly patient centered.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy)
Amy was wonderful and supportive throughout the process. She was extremely compassionate and competent as our nurse. She always took the time to answer all of our questions and make sure we understood everything. Amy always went above and beyond to help us. She was even kind enough to come in one of the days the clinic was closed to help me with a progesterone injection.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
The clinic is full of caring and compassionate staff. Everyone is willing to help however they can. It is easy to get reach your fertility team and easy to schedule appointments.
I have not been to their new facility, so I cannot speak to that, but the clinic always appeared clean and organized.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
The cost of our cycle was always explained to us in detail. We met with someone specifically about the cost and financing. She always answered all of our questions in detail and followed up with us if any questions or concerns came up.
Dr Balthazar was very warm and understanding in how much I have gone through in my journey to have a baby. She is determined to achieve that goal for me. She called me not only from the clinic but her personal phone when we did not have success...had a lengthy medical record. On my first appointment with Dr B she let me know she read all 100+ pages and was determined to get a positive outcome. She was always companionate, calming and caring. She answered all my questions and tried to ease my worries. She let me know she has a plan and we will continually adjust it so we can have a successful pregnancy. From the very first visit she made me feel comfortable and confident in her abilities.
I loved my nurse Amy [at Aspire Fertility/ RMA of Texas]. She is very compassionate and understanding. She was alway quick to answer my questions, even when she was off from work...After insurance I paid about $6000 out of pocket for the first round. Then an additional 1500 for the second round...I love the overall positive feeling in the office. They all want to help in achieving the ultimate goal of finally having a baby. They are all friendly and understand how sensitive and stressful the whole process is
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
I had gone to a different clinic previously and had a lengthy medical record. On my first appointment with Dr B she let me know she read all 100+ pages and was determined to get a positive outcome. She was always companionate, calming and caring. She answered all my questions and tried to ease my worries. She let me know she has a plan and we will continually adjust it so we can have a successful pregnancy. From the very first visit she made me feel comfortable and confident in her abilities.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Be open , honest and listen to what she has to say. She knows what she is doing and wants a happy outcome for every patient.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr Balthazar was very warm and understanding in how much I have gone through in my journey to have a baby. She is determined to achieve that goal for me. She called me not only from the clinic but her personal phone when we did not have success.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
The first round of retrieval I was put on
gonal f
Lupolide
Lupron
Omintrope
The second round we did not use omintrope
Her goal was to get the best quality eggs without putting a huge amount of debt on top of the already stressful procedures.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy Altamirano )
I loved my nurse Amy. She is very compassionate and understanding. She was alway quick to answer my questions, even when she was off from work. I told her she did not need to answer my emails if it was her day off, she told me she wanted me to have answers without delay
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I love the overall positive feeling in the office. They all want to help in achieving the ultimate goal of finally having a baby. They are all friendly and understand how sensitive and stressful the whole process is
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
After insurance I paid about $6000 out of pocket for the first round. Then an additional 1500 for the second round. I want to do a third round but need help financially
[Dr. Balthazar] has a specific protocol she uses for many of her patients-one she developed and has had success with. It's a lower dosage of medications with estrogen priming before, and including letrozole and HGH. We were open to trying this protocol with my diminished ovarian reserve, and had decent success retrieval wise...We only saw her at one or two monitoring appointments and for transfer. It would have meant more as a patient to be able to see your assigned physician with each appointment a doctor is involved, not the other doctors in the practice.
As a whole the staff here [at Aspire Fertility] are very friendly and welcoming. We did not care for the entire team of doctors approach to cycles where doctors are assigned days for retrievals, transfers, monitoring, etc. We would prefer being able to see our assigned doctor with each visit requiring a doctor...They had packages for IVF cycles depending on what all you wanted (PGS testing or not, frozen transfer, etc)
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. B is very energetic and has such a positive energy with her patients. That positive energy was appreciated at our consultation and getting started with our IVF cycle. We only saw her at one or two monitoring appointments and for transfer. It would have meant more as a patient to be able to see your assigned physician with each appointment a doctor is involved, not the other doctors in the practice. She has a protocol that has worked for many patients, and we had decent success with it retrieval wise with my diminished ovarian reserve, however have had no success in transfer of either of the 2 embryos from that retrieval cycle. She feels strongly about fresh transfers and recommended that, rather than perform an ERA biopsy prior to doing a frozen transfer. We have later found that an ERA showed a shift window of receptivity and additional progesterone needed with a new RE. Overall, Dr. B is a wonderful person and doctor with a great attitude. I would hope she would be more open to including her patient's requests in their treatment especially those who have already had unsuccessful treatment elsewhere. To someone who is just starting out, Dr. B is a wonderful place to begin treatment. For any cases that need further personalization, I would recommend seeking treatment elsewhere.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Be prepared to see multiple physicians during the course of your treatment. We loved getting to see Dr. B, but only saw her a few times during our IVF cycle. You end up meeting all of the physicians at the practice through this process, however, I feel this makes the experience less individualized and less personal with your doctor. Something that is key in my opinion during infertility treatment. Dr. B has a warm energetic personality-she was encouraging and always positive.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Staff at the clinic were warm and friendly. The front desk staff were always helpful with questions and scheduling appointments.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
Dr. B has a specific protocol she uses for many of her patients-one she developed and has had success with. It's a lower dosage of medications with estrogen priming before, and including letrozole and HGH. We were open to trying this protocol with my diminished ovarian reserve, and had decent success retrieval wise with 2 blasts out of 5 mature eggs retrieved and 3 fertilized. We did not PGS test, and unfortunately both embryos resulted in a failed transfer (2 separate transfers)
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy)
Amy was very responsive via email, friendly, and very organized. Even when needing to call for medications not going through to pharmacies she was patient and flexible. She made the process smooth and less stressful.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
As a whole the staff here are very friendly and welcoming. We did not care for the entire team of doctors approach to cycles where doctors are assigned days for retrievals, transfers, monitoring, etc. We would prefer being able to see our assigned doctor with each visit requiring a doctor. Our retrieval was performed by another doctor at the practice and many monitoring appointments as well. This made the experience less personable and makes you feel a bit more like a number. Everyone was always friendly, that's just my personal opinion after already going through 2 previous IVF cycles at another clinic.
Also, your spouse or partner will not be allowed back with you during transfer. This was a big dissatisfier for my husband and I, as this moment is something very special in the IVF process. Most clinics make this possible, providing the required PPE for them to wear while in the transfer area.
Overall, I feel this clinic is a higher rated clinic than others, and would continue to be sought out by incorporating some of these changes. We had a an overall pleasant experience, all things considered, and even though our cycle was not successful.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
They had packages for IVF cycles depending on what all you wanted (PGS testing or not, frozen transfer, etc)
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
The lab here has very high standards for transferring embryos and freezing them. We had an early blast on day 5 that they would not allow us to transfer, and did not continue growing on day 6, so was discarded. This clinic is pretty adamant on elective single embryo transfers.
What specific things went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Lost or damaged samples
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
There was a mixup when transferring embryos to another clinic. One embryo was "lost" briefly and not shipped with the other, due to being stored in a separate location. This was recognized quickly by the embryologist staff once I contacted them and inquired. There were no further issues and they were very receptive and helpful when the problem arose.
Dr. Balthazar, made me and my husband feel hopeful of the entire IVF process even when things went wrong she still mananged to support us and has a plan for the second cycle. At every appointment, Dr. Balthazar, always showed compassion and respect to us and answered every questions...Birthcontrol: Oral Meds (AM): Letrozole, Dexamethasone IVF injections (PM):Follistim, Lupron,Menopur,Omintrope result: increased egg quality, result 2 matured 0 fertilization :(
[Aspire Fertility has] Excellent providers, nurse, and admin. Weakness: The Aspire SanAntonio, TX on Stone Oak, has a terrible phone system, not enough staff to answer the phones and when they do you get transfered to voicemail with no return calls. Patients have to keep calling, if your local it's best to walk in and out of town patients, good luck. A major problem is the billing department and supervisor is terrible. They don't pay attention to detail nor the patients insurance and authorizations.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar, made me and my husband feel hopeful of the entire IVF process even when things went wrong she still mananged to support us and has a plan for the second cycle. At every appointment, Dr. Balthazar, always showed compassion and respect to us and answered every questions.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Be organized and have your questions ready. :)
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
We felt like a human, Dr. Balthazar and her nurse Amy, are an amazing team and they explained every detail of the IVF process and answered every question througout our first IVF cycle.
Unfortunately, the Aspire Billing department at Stone Oak is not on board as the other staff, has made numerous billing errors inluding not billing the correct insurance that's located on our authorizations. We've sent countless of emails to Aspire billing supervisor and nothing has been fixed X 3 months- now we feel like a number .
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy)
The nurse, Amy and admin consultant, Breanna are deffiantly the staff you want at Aspire, San Antonio Tx, to help you through an IVF process. These members take care of patients and have good communication skills.
We wish the billing team would get on the same level, so we can make future appointments.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Strenght: Excellent providers, nurse, and admin.
Weakness: The Aspire SanAntonio, TX on Stone Oak, has a terrible phone system, not enough staff to answer the phones and when they do you get transfered to voicemail with no return calls. Patients have to keep calling, if your local it's best to walk in and out of town patients, good luck.
A major problem is the billing department and supervisor is terrible. They don't pay attention to detail nor the patients insurance and authorizations.
They have caused me and my husband major insurance problems becuase Aspire made several billing mistakes:
It's been 3 months and Aspire billing on- Stone Oak, still hasn't corrected billing errors nor return emails, phone calls, will keep calling until we get a response and its resolved 100%. Billing should be the last of any patients worries when going through a time sensitve fertility process.
Recommend, Aspire -Stone Oak gain a better billing team.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
If Aspire billing department would pay attention to our insurance company and authorization , they will receive the correct pay
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
n/a
What specific things went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Failed to call with results
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Aspire is suppose to be the best fertility clinic in TX but their billing department will definitely make them lose patients instead of gaining. This department has made several billing errors on our insurance policy from AUG-SEP and still haven't fixed the problem are provide any updates.
this first meeting [with Dr. Balthazar] went much differently than those of my other two REs and I feel that is noteworthy. She is incredibly knowledgeable and well-spoken and listened to my husband and me in a way that made us feel comfortable. She asked questions to get to know us better and genuinely seemed like she saw us as her friends that she was helping and not just clients. Dr. Balthazar was very candid and straightforward about what she saw, what we could expect, and any risks that we might encounter. We did not feel rushed at all and that was the greatest feeling.
Amy [nurse at Aspire Fertility/RMA of Texas] was very welcoming from the beginning. She knew what she was talking about and my husband and I felt confident asking her questions...The waiting area is a bit small, especially if seen during a busy time. We weren't seen right at our appointment time but it was explained to us why. The staff are all very welcoming and try to help you feel less nervous, especially if it's your first time. I feel that everyone was very knowledgeable in what they did for the clinic.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
I have only seen Dr. Balthazar for an initial consultation so far. However, this first meeting went much differently than those of my other two REs and I feel that is noteworthy. She is incredibly knowledgeable and well-spoken and listened to my husband and me in a way that made us feel comfortable. She asked questions to get to know us better and genuinely seemed like she saw us as her friends that she was helping and not just clients. Dr. Balthazar was very candid and straightforward about what she saw, what we could expect, and any risks that we might encounter. We did not feel rushed at all and that was the greatest feeling.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Go in knowing what you want to talk to her about or ask.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Before we had entered the room, she had read our background and knew what she wanted to discuss with us beforehand. Though it was our first time speaking to her it felt like she had been aware of our issues and past treatments from the very beginning. Dr. Balthazar was incredibly warm and welcoming and was very open to answering our questions.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy)
Amy was very welcoming from the beginning. She knew what she was talking about and my husband and I felt confident asking her questions.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
The waiting area is a bit small, especially if seen during a busy time. We weren't seen right at our appointment time but it was explained to us why. The staff are all very welcoming and try to help you feel less nervous, especially if it's your first time. I feel that everyone was very knowledgeable in what they did for the clinic.
I decided to pursue single motherhood shortly before my 36th birthday and Dr. Balthazar has been so encouraging and supportive. As a former surrogate I have worked with top R.E.'s in Los Angeles/Beverly Hills and my experience with Dr. Balthazar is above and beyond. She is so welcoming and upbeat, but also very knowledgeable and capable of delivering the hard facts in a human way without diminishing the accuracy. I am so happy with Dr. Balthazar as a doctor and a person and would recommend her to anyone with the utmost confidence and enthusiasm.
I have no diagnosed or suspected reproductive issues and am using donor sperm from a sperm bank [at Aspire Fertility]. At this time I have 12 follicles and am waiting for ultrasound tomorrow to get my bearings on relative growth and comparative size of follicles... Every e-mail was responded to within 3-4 hours and no phone call went unreturned [by nurse]...I was given a 2nd cycle discount for my Full IVF cycle and opted out of PGS testing which made the expense comparatively reasonable. With meds included I would say the estimated cost for full-IVF with no PGS is around $15K with meds. I will say my workup to determine fertility options before my INVOcell cycle was about $5K out of pocket.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar is exactly the doctor I needed and never knew. I decided to pursue single motherhood shortly before my 36th birthday and Dr. Balthazar has been so encouraging and supportive. As a former surrogate I have worked with top R.E.'s in Los Angeles/Beverly Hills and my experience with Dr. Balthazar is above and beyond. She is so welcoming and upbeat, but also very knowledgeable and capable of delivering the hard facts in a human way without diminishing the accuracy. I am so happy with Dr. Balthazar as a doctor and a person and would recommend her to anyone with the utmost confidence and enthusiasm.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar is exactly the doctor I needed and never knew. I decided to pursue single motherhood shortly before my 36th birthday and Dr. Balthazar has been so encouraging and supportive. As a former surrogate I have worked with top R.E.'s in Los Angeles/Beverly Hills and my experience with Dr. Balthazar is above and beyond. She is so welcoming and upbeat, but also very knowledgeable and capable of delivering the hard facts in a human way without diminishing the accuracy. I am so happy with Dr. Balthazar as a doctor and a person and would recommend her to anyone with the utmost confidence and enthusiasm.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
I am currently in the stim protocol of my 2nd IVF attempt. I did an INVOcell (mini-IVF) attempt with Balthazar initially and had great results, 3 embryos made it to blastocyst, transferred 2, became pregnant with 1 and then miscarried at 6 weeks. I still have 1 frozen, but would ideally like to have 2-3 children so decided to continue on to full-IVF for which I am on the long agonist protocol, with estrogen priming, since I am a bit older, which should yield great results. I have no diagnosed or suspected reproductive issues and am using donor sperm from a sperm bank. At this time I have 12 follicles and am waiting for ultrasound tomorrow to get my bearings on relative growth and comparative size of follicles. Dr. Blathazar is encouraged by the initial appearance and size at baseline so I am very hopeful that this will be my cycle.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy Altamarino)
Amy Altamarino was a very good conduit. Every e-mail was responded to within 3-4 hours and no phone call went unreturned.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Everyone from the front door receptionist to billing is so friendly and I felt connected to each of them and like they were personally invested in my case. I was also familiar with other nurses and felt their attentiveness and sense of duty. I have no negative feedback for this clinic. I do think that each individual pursuing fertility options need to do their own research especially re: PGS testing, ICSI, etc., because as a for-profit clinic there is a bottom line and doctors are going take you at your word without question. If you say you want PGS testing the doctor is going to do PGS testing even though they may not see a need or think it is not the best choice for your specific case. You are best to fully research any and all methods and protocols you are electing and then discuss your personal findings with your doctor to see if it is medically in your best interest. Your doctor is there to meet your requests and offer guidance, not to make your decisions, so just keep that in mind.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I was given a 2nd cycle discount for my Full IVF cycle and opted out of PGS testing which made the expense comparatively reasonable. With meds included I would say the estimated cost for full-IVF with no PGS is around $15K with meds. I will say my workup to determine fertility options before my INVOcell cycle was about $5K out of pocket.
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I want to transfer 2 embryos and my clinic is not questioning or fighting back on that decision which is appreciated. I have carried twins as a surrogate and a singleton and have have 4 embryo transfers with top fertility centers and have only ever had 2 embryos transferred with very mixed results from singleton miscarriage to a healthy live birth of twins, so am willing to accept any associated risks. I am sure my age has a lot to do with it, but I am glad that fighting with the clinic over number of embryos is not something I have encountered.
[Dr. Balthazar] is empathetic to understand the pain some have gone through before even getting to a fertility clinic in the first place, like in our situation. Additionally, later in the process, when our first IVF baby died at 10 weeks she stayed behind in our appointment after the nurse (kindly and subtly) encouraged her to keep moving on to the next, and she reached out and held my hand as we faced the next step to have a D&C. That meant a lot to me.
Our clinic [Aspire Fertility/RMA] is overall great. The staff is helpful and cheery and it feels like everyone knows our name! The one downfall to the clinic is the small waiting room. You cannot hide from anyone if you are trying to keep your journey to yourself!...Amy [nurse] is great, and shared with us her cell so we could be in touch after hours if needed. She’s helpful with quick questions and responds quickly...IVF right off the bat was near $30,000, and that got you to your first pregnancy test. Everything after that has been piece-by-piece, and has probably cost near another $10,000, and we’re still going with lots of appointments and meds to go.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar is extremely efficient and positive, at all times. Sometimes a little too quick and you might walk out of an appointment wondering what just happened, until it all soaks in. She is good to communicate between office visits via email if questions arise. She does have a heart and is empathetic to understand the pain some have gone through before even getting to a fertility clinic in the first place, like in our situation. Additionally, later in the process, when our first IVF baby died at 10 weeks she stayed behind in our appointment after the nurse (kindly and subtly) encouraged her to keep moving on to the next, and she reached out and held my hand as we faced the next step to have a D&C. That meant a lot to me.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Ask questions! And say how you feel! She will talk a lot during your appointments but loves to have a conversation with her patients and wants to understand what YOU feel. Sometimes a gut instinct from the patient is the best guidance, and she will listen to, appreciate, and consider your input to creating your plan.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar has a way of making you feel like you’re her only patient. She has excellent bedside manners and remembers each person by name. She makes you feel like you are her #1 priority.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
I have completely blocked tubes so we immediately went to IVF. Dr. Balthazar put us on a programmed cycle with PIO and estrogen via Estrace pills. The embryo implanted but miscarried for unknown reasons at 10 weeks. The second transfer did was a more natural cycle with progesterone inserts and my own estrogen. It looked a lot like an IVF retrieval cycle. This cycle ended as a chemical.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy Altamirano )
Amy is great, and shared with us her cell so we could be in touch after hours if needed. She’s helpful with quick questions and responds quickly.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Our clinic is overall great. The staff is helpful and cheery and it feels like everyone knows our name! The one downfall to the clinic is the small waiting room. You cannot hide from anyone if you are trying to keep your journey to yourself!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
IVF right off the bat was near $30,000, and that got you to your first pregnancy test. Everything after that has been piece-by-piece, and has probably cost near another $10,000, and we’re still going with lots of appointments and meds to go.
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Dr. Balthazar told us from the start that she prefers not to transfer multiple embryos because of the health risk. If we had more embryos left than one, I would probably ask for more than one at the next transfer!
She [Dr. Balthazar] takes her time to explain and makes sure you understand and are comfortable with what is going on. ... She asks "How are you doing?" and actually wants to know! She has such a positive attitude and demeanor, that is contagious, and I'm sure it positively affects her success rates. Her positive outlook really has made a difference in my outlook, my mood, and experience. At the same time she is realistic with you about what YOU can specifically expect with your situation
Small waiting room [Aspire Fertility/RMA of TX] but never have to wait very long, so that is fine with me! All staff is very attentive and courteous. You can tell they like their jobs and are happy to be there, which makes a difference. Everyone has a positive attitude and so willing to help. ... Lisa was truly amazing. So caring, personable and efficient. Great with communication by phone or email with prompt responses to all questions asked. I always felt comfortable and taken care of, which I think speaks volumes considering I'm a RN myself.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
She takes her time to explain and makes sure you understand and are comfortable with what is going on. She is kind and genuine. She asks "How are you doing?" and actually wants to know! She has such a positive attitude and demeanor, that is contagious, and I'm sure it positively affects her success rates. Her positive outlook really has made a difference in my outlook, my mood, and experience. At the same time she is realistic with you about what YOU can specifically expect with your situation.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Don't wait to see her. Don't see anyone else first. Just go!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
She has great bedside manner and you can tell she genuinely cares about you. She is warm, kind, personal, and takes her time. You feel like her only patient when she is with you. She is so positive, yet realistic, which I think makes a huge impact on her success rates.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
I was offered to try IUI first or start IVF. We wanted to start least invasive and most natural first. We did 3 cycles of IUI with Clomid, injectables and progesterone for the first 2 and same for last with Femara instead of Clomid. No pregnancies resulted from any of them. I have low AMH (low egg reserve), but she was very pleased that I was making more eggs than expected with each cycle.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Lisa)
Lisa was truly amazing. So caring, personable and efficient. Great with communication by phone or email with prompt responses to all questions asked. I always felt comfortable and taken care of, which I think speaks volumes considering I'm a RN myself. I completely trust her. Literally wish she could be cloned to work at all my doctor's offices! She is fantastic.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Small waiting room but never have to wait very long, so that is fine with me! All staff is very attentive and courteous. You can tell they like their jobs and are happy to be there, which makes a difference. Everyone has a positive attitude and so willing to help.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
IUI about $1200/cycle with meds ranging from $300-1000. Office visits w/ultrasounds $200-300.
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
NA
What specific things went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Nurse Amy did my blood draw for my 3rd IUI pregnancy results and failed to call me same day, as is standard; and did not call at all. I still had not heard anything the next day and had to call to reach someone else for my results. Definitely disappointed, but have not had any other complaints at all. I will gladly return still. Just wish they had a double check system before leaving office each day- it was a big deal sitting and waiting and waiting.
With our cycle [with Dr. Balthazar] we did a two embryo transfer due to endometriosis and low ovarian reserves...is so kind and has a great bed side manner. Very encouraging and positive through our whole experience. Through our whole process she’s was very straight forward with expectations... With our outcome from our last and from my lab result she did not give us any false hope for a future cycle with my eggs. She answered all our questions for a future cycle and other options we can look into to built a family and still experience the possibility of pregnancy.
While in Amy’s [nurse at RMA of Texas] care she alway went above and beyond for our first cycle. Responds to emails with in 24 hours or less. Very compassionate and listens when there is an issue with medication or even insurance. For our second cycle Rebecca is our nurse and she is also very good with communicating about our care and makes sure all our questions are answered... One weakness I think would be to communication between the staff, sticking with one nurse is best so there familiar with your issues and treatment.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
While in doctor Balthazar’s care she gave us complete honest care. I never felt like we were being steered in the wrong direction, she gave us a lot of hope but at the same time let us know what we may be expecting. Our cycle did end in a chemical pregnancy, when we went in for a follow up her compassionate care ment a lot to us. With our outcome from our last and from my lab result she did not give us any false hope for a future cycle with my eggs. She answered all our questions for a future cycle and other options we can look into to built a family and still experience the possibility of pregnancy.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Expect wonderful care
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Doctor Balthazar is so kind and has a great bed side manner. Very encouraging and positive through our whole experience. Through our whole process she’s was very straight forward with expectations.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
I already started with diminished ovarian reserves so we started out with 4 shots twic daily, at the end prior to retrieval doctor Balthazar adjust and increase of injection doses. At egg retrieval we only got to eggs as we expect, both fertilized and did a three day transfer ending in a chemical pregnancy.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy for my first cycle and Rebecca for my second)
While in Amy’s care she alway went above and beyond for our first cycle. Responds to emails with in 24 hours or less. Very compassionate and listens when there is an issue with medication or even insurance. For our second cycle Rebecca is our nurse and she is also very good with communicating about our care and makes sure all our questions are answered.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Nurses are great with communication, recommendation sticking with one or two nurses if the other isn’t there. One weakness I think would be to communication between the staff, sticking with one nurse is best so there familiar with your issues and treatment.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
With our cycle we did a two embryo transfer due to endometriosis and low ovarian reserves.
What specific things went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Lost or damaged samples
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Labwork on vials from my husband we not identified properly so had to go back and get his samples redrawn as well as my labwork was not fully completed.
Dr. Balthazar always makes you feel comfortable and remembers things that you have asked or said previously. She makes you feel like she truly cares... I was a bit nervous about the HSG test but with Dr. Balthazar explaining everything I was much more at ease. My wife and I have never felt uncomfortable with Dr. Balthazar, she does not treat us any differently than I feel she would treat a heterosexual couple. Choosing Dr. Balthazar as our RE was the best decision that we have made for our TTC journey.
Lisa [nurse at RMA of Texas] is awesome! She makes sure that she explains everything to us when a new medication is prescribed or when a medication is to be taken. She gives us a schedule for the process and goes over it with us to ensure that we understand everything. She shows compassion and is very easy to talk to...Email seems to be the best way to reach the coordinator. Trying to reach anyone by phone is difficult. I believe sometimes they take longer than I feel they should to return calls. (I do understand that I am not their only patient and that I can sometimes be a little impatient) The staff are all very friendly and helpful!
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar is kind and shows excitement and empathy where and when needed. Dr. Balthazar gives me a lot of hope when it comes to treatments and options. She explains every step of the process when she is performing procedures, such as with my HSG test, she explained what she was doing, why she was doing it and what she saw. I was a bit nervous about the HSG test but with Dr. Balthazar explaining everything I was much more at ease. My wife and I have never felt uncomfortable with Dr. Balthazar, she does not treat us any differently than I feel she would treat a heterosexual couple. Choosing Dr. Balthazar as our RE was the best decision that we have made for our TTC journey.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Trust her! She is very good at what she does.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar always makes you feel comfortable and remembers things that you have asked or said previously. She makes you feel like she truly cares.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
We went in for a consultation, had a uterine ultrasound performed so that she could be introduced to my uterus and ovaries. Because I have PCOS and my periods are not regular she prescribed me medroxyprogestrone 10 mg twice daily for 5 days to force my period to start. Once my cycle started I came in on day 3-4 to have the HSG test done. She wanted to verify that my uterus was good and that my Fallopian tubes are open. I was instructed to call back once I began my cycle again so that we could began the first IUI cycle. I started my period on my own that month but much sooner than expected, we had not chosen a donor by that time and did not want to rush that process so my wife and I opted to hold off until the following month so that we could get that taken care of. Once again, my cycle did not start when it should have so I was prescribed the same medication as before after a negative pregnancy test was acquired. Once the medicine was complete and my period came we went in for base line testing where an ultrasound was performed to verify that I was in the proper stage to move forward. Dr. Balthazar prescribed me 5 mg of letrozole to be taken at night for 5 nights and scheduled a follow up ultrasound. On the day of the follow up ultrasound she verified that with the help of the letrozole I had one follicle that would be mature enough to move forward with. Dr. Balthazar prescribed me a trigger shot of Ovidrel to be given by my wife at 9:30pm on Wednesday night and IUI was scheduled for 9:30am Friday morning. That was on August 31st. On September 17th I went back in for blood work to see if the procedure resulted in a pregnancy. Unfortunately it did not, but my wife and I were aware of the chances that it would not work.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Lisa Ayala )
Lisa is awesome! She makes sure that she explains everything to us when a new medication is prescribed or when a medication is to be taken. She gives us a schedule for the process and goes over it with us to ensure that we understand everything. She shows compassion and is very easy to talk to.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Email seems to be the best way to reach the coordinator. Trying to reach anyone by phone is difficult. I believe sometimes they take longer than I feel they should to return calls. (I do understand that I am not their only patient and that I can sometimes be a little impatient) The staff are all very friendly and helpful!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I was told that I would have to pay my co pay plus additional cost not covered by insurance each visit. The first 2 appointments I paid my copay plus $96, the first visit and then my copay plus $256 the second visit. Once I received my EOB from the insurance company it showed that I should have only paid the copay. My wife and I figured that they had us pay additional amounts that most insurance companies do not cover. The additional amounts were put back onto our account as a credit. So far we have only had to pay the copay.
Dr. Balthazar is friendly and kind. You can tell that she really does want to help you grow your family.... When we came to Dr. Balthazar we had recently had our second miscarriage with no live births. After testing she found I had MTHFR gene mutation, and a high egg count. She addresses the MTHFR with a prescribed prenatal with folate and a baby aspirin a day. She choose a timed intercourse cycle with Clomid
I think my clinic [RMA of Texas] does a great job of making you feel valued. I never feel like a number when I'm there. They call me by my name and they give all the time I need to have my questions answered. They are all very patient and kind. They never make me feel like I'm asking a dumb question or too many questions.... Their one weakness in my opinion is that they do not let you know if you will be seeing another doctor that isn't your doctor.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar is friendly and kind. You can tell that she really does want to help you grow your family. She does give you all the options and she is honest with you about your chances with each of them. She is smart and experienced, so she’s seen a lot of cases and knows what to do with each of them. She is compassionate as well. When I had my third loss she let my husband and I sit in her office and cry and ask all the questions we had. She never rushed us out or said she needed to go. She just listened and answered. She just makes you feel like you’ve got the champ in your corner that you need in a time like this.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
To ask anything you want to know. Don’t walk away wishing you had asked one more thing. And know that she will be honest with her answers.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
She always knew everything going on with me. I never had to re-explain my situation or my history as I had with my OB. She always took as much time as I needed to answer my questions and explain everything in depth to me. I never felt like she was rushing to get me to leave. You can tell she cares about you as an individual.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
When we came to Dr. Balthazar we had recently had our second miscarriage with no live births. After testing she found I had MTHFR gene mutation, and a high egg count. She addresses the MTHFR with a prescribed prenatal with folate and a baby aspirin a day. She choose a timed intercourse cycle with Clomid (25mg the first round and 50mg the second) with an Ovidrel trigger shot each time. She said because of my high egg count the signal from my brain to my eggs may be causing my eggs to go too soon or too late causing them to not be timed correctly and thus the miscarriages. With Clomid we could help one to mature at the correct pace and the trigger shot would tell that egg exactly when to go and that would help address that issue. The first month with this cycle we received a negative pregnancy test. The second cycle we received a positive pregnancy test but my HCG didn’t rise as needed and we lost the pregnancy.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy Altamirano)
The entire staff is very patient and kind. From the intake staff to the billing. Everyone explains everything fully and takes the time to make sure you understand it all. My specific nurse is new to me as we won’t start our IVF until May but from what I’ve asked so far she has been very ready and willing to talk with me and answer my questions. I’m looking forward to having her through this cycle.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I think my clinic does a great job of making you feel valued. I never feel like a number when I'm there. They call me by my name and they give all the time I need to have my questions answered. They are all very patient and kind. They never make me feel like I'm asking a dumb question or too many questions. They know my history and I don't have to remind them at any point. Their one weakness in my opinion is that they do not let you know if you will be seeing another doctor that isn't your doctor. They assumed I knew it was my doctor's day off (had go in for a scan during a timed intercourse cycle), and I didn't know I wasn't seeing my doctor until the other doctor walked into my room to do the scan.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I completed all of my fertility testing at this office, which estimated $2000 out of pocket. I also completed two timed intercourse cycles which totaled about $1300 with medications. I have IVF with PGS & an FET scheduled for this summer which will be approximately $26,000 total, with no insurance coverage.
Dr. Balthazar takes her time with us. She listens and answers all questions. She is warm and humorous and definitely puts thought into her patients’ care even when they are not directly in front of her.... She explained the protocol she game me and why she selected it based on my diagnosis of DOR. I responded poorly to the first cycle and was oversupressed. The second cycle, I had cysts and was still suppressed from the birth control . Third cycle, everything cleared up and we are attempting an egg retrieval.
Strengths: Schedulers and billing staff [RMA of Texas] are communicative, timely, and so nice. Good hours for working people Weaknesses: Sometimes it hard to get a scheduler on the phone for that initial consult- I played phone tag . But if you leave a message they return it. Once you are an established patient it is much easier.... Amy is very communicative WHEN it is important and/or when she is at the office. Sometimes I would wonder if she got my email but now she acknowledges them and let’s me know that she is not in the office
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Again- Dr. B is warm, humorous, upbeat and able to answer all questions. She explained the protocol she game me and why she selected it based on my diagnosis of DOR. I responded poorly to the first cycle and was oversupressed. The second cycle, I had cysts and was still suppressed from the birth control . Third cycle, everything cleared up and we are attempting an egg retrieval.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Go in with a list of questions. She loves it!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar takes her time with us. She listens and answers all questions. She is warm and humorous and definitely puts thought into her patients’ care even when they are not directly in front of her.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
Cycle 1
Estrogen priming 10-12 days
2 weeks BCP
Stims:
75 Menopur
150 follistim
Letrozole 2.5
Dexamethason
Micro dose Lupron 10 units 2/day
Omnitrope
Pregnyll
Cycle 2 - cancelled
Cycle 3 - same stims but no estrogen priming or BCP
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy)
Amy is very communicative WHEN it is important and/or when she is at the office. Sometimes I would wonder if she got my email but now she acknowledges them and let’s me know that she is not in the office . She sometimes says that she will send in a ( non urgent) script right away, but that doesn’t happen as soon as she made it sound . Over all she is a million times more helpful than the nursing staff at our last clinic.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Strengths:
Schedulers and billing staff are communicative, timely, and so nice.
Good hours for working people
Weaknesses:
Sometimes it hard to get a scheduler on the phone for that initial consult- I played phone tag . But if you leave a message they return it. Once you are an established patient it is much easier.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
IVF with ICSI, hatching and PGS $19,000
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
We have not really discussed this yet- decided to discuss when we see what grade of embryos we are working with.
What specific things went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
She [Dr. Balthazar] failed to inform me of key information through out my experience. She was abrupt and cut me and my husband off multiple times when we were in the process of asking questions or explaining something. She failed to inform me of my carrier status of a genetic disorder... The treatment she utilized was oral FSH stimulation through the use of Clomiphene, 100mg daily for 5 days, starting on day 5 of the cycle. Her staff did not start me until day 6 of the cycle though.
Some of the staff [RMA of Texas] are very friendly. Amanda C. is very nice and understanding. So is Brianna. The rest of the staff mainly treats you as a number. They perform these tasks on a daily basis and have gone through them thousands of times. It was my FIRST time, and no one took the time to be patient or inform me of all the steps in the process.... $1200 for the IUI without the cost of medication or frozen sperm.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
She failed to inform me of key information through out my experience. She was abrupt and cut me and my husband off multiple times when we were in the process of asking questions or explaining something. She failed to inform me of my carrier status of a genetic disorder and I believe she did no mention it because she didn't want to have an extensive conversation about the results. She never asked to test my husband, she never brought it up once. I discovered the medical error of omission upon receiving a copy of my laboratory results from the staff.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Take your time. Explain everything. Go through all the options for that particular person. It would have been nice if you would have told me what the reasons are for having a low AMH. And you mentioned that my egg reserve, although low, was still 'good' because I am only 34 yo. That is not entirely the truth, is it? Because there are conditions where the egg quality can reflect the egg reserve. This was never explained to me, therefore I had to go and spend more money on someone else who would.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
THEY FAILED TO INFORM ME I WAS A CARRIER FOR A GENETIC DISORDER.
The quality of staff reflects the standards of the doctors running the facility. That’s where their problems begin.
I felt very rushed through the entire process, like everyone else knew what was going on, but since this was my first time discovering that my husband and I had fertility issues, no one really took the time to really explain the process at each visit. On several visits my husband or I were cut off by Dr. B when we were asking questions or explaining something. By the time we actually got to performing the IUI, I had already had an uncomfortable feeling, but since I had nothing to compare it to, I tried to push it out of my mind.
On the day of my IUI, as you can imagine, I was very nervous. The procedure went well enough, and the MA told me to lay there for 10 minutes to allow the sperm to enter the fallopian tubes. I tried to cover my eyes and I didn’t pay attention to the time because she put an alarm and it would let me know when to get up. I heard the beep and I thought it was early, but I got up and started getting dressed. I was almost finished when I heard another beep and looked at the wall, it flashed 3 minutes and was counting backwards! Apparently, it had a warning bell at 5 min and 7 min. I got scared and went back to lay down on the table, then the 10 min alarm sounded off, and I finally got up. I wish someone had informed me about this, but as with the rest of my experience it had been rushed and there was little attention to detail. I left the room and went to check-out, everything had already been paid for, but I wanted to get a copy of all my lab work to show my PCP. I took the copy and went to my car and looked it over quickly. Right on the first page, there it was, “Carrier For Cystic Fibrosis and CFTR-Related Disorders.” I got a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. I was in my car, so I called the office right away on my way home. Perhaps I was misreading the results. I was transferred to the nurse, but she didn’t answer and so I left a message at around 10 in the morning. I finally got home and I emailed a few people in the office to see if any of them would respond. Dr. B didn’t call me back until after 1 pm. Over 3 hours of hell. I was a wreck. Why had no one told me about my carrier status, why had my husband not been asked to get tested as well?? Why did I have to find out about this on the DAY OF MY IUI. The risk of both of us being carriers was very very low, but the risk was still there. I felt like it was going to be a failed attempt due to all the stress right away, and it eventually was. All Dr. B could say was she was sorry and that the Genetic Counselor was supposed to call me 3 months ago when they had the results. Apparently, they tried to call “me” 3 times, but that was incorrect. They had my husband’s phone number because he was the first one to have an appointment at the office. My husband did receive a call and he told me about it, but we had an appointment with the doctor in a few days, so I didn’t think much of it. Dr. B would tell me about whatever they were calling about. WRONG. Why did she tell me about my low Vit D and not the carrier status? All I can think of was she didn’t want to spend the time talking about it because it would have been an extensive conversation. She had treated me nicely through the process, but was not thorough, and that’s what you’re getting with this facility. There were several instances where I felt like I was just being pushed through the system. From the gaps of information and lack of attention to detail. My IUI was not successful and as we all know, stress is a huge factor. They CREATED the stress I endured after the procedure. I refused to go back to get my blood test because I got my period. It was a very painful situation to go through, and I truly believe that I’m not the only one that his happens to, I was just unfortunate to find out.
I had my first meeting today with my new fertility specialist, and she had informed me that starting the clomiphene on day 6 really didn’t do anything to improve my chances. So, when I asked the MA to inform me about the repercussions, and her stating that ‘it’s fine’ was very misleading.
I did ask for my money back because I felt like it was all a waste. Of course, they only gave me back the 160 dollars for the blood test and nothing else.
This place would probably be an acceptable place to go if you have experience with infertility or have already been through the process. If you’re new to it though, you will leave with many gaps in knowledge. I would never go back, nor would I recommend this facility to anyone.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
She never mentioned a particular protocol. The treatment she utilized was oral FSH stimulation through the use of Clomiphene, 100mg daily for 5 days, starting on day 5 of the cycle. Her staff did not start me until day 6 of the cycle though. Three ultrasounds, beginning, middle, after IUI. IUI with frozen sperm after Ovidrel injection.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Lisa Ayala)
She was very short with me and did not give me the full information about procedures. I feel that her attitude and attention to detail is reflected by the standard the Dr. Balthazar sets. She had me starting clomiphene on the wrong day and brushed it off without providing sufficient detail about what the repercussions were. Her only answer to my question was "It's fine."
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Some of the staff are very friendly. Amanda C. is very nice and understanding. So is Brianna. The rest of the staff mainly treats you as a number. They perform these tasks on a daily basis and have gone through them thousands of times. It was my FIRST time, and no one took the time to be patient or inform me of all the steps in the process. I was very disappointed and feel cheated.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
$1200 for the IUI without the cost of medication or frozen sperm.
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I have none.
What specific things went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Lost paperwork
Failed to call with results
Lost results
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
My genetic testing results were only partially provided to me. Dr. Balthazar informed me of my low vitamin d, and my AMH, but failed to inform me that I was a carrier for Cystic Fibrosis. She failed to inform me that my husband should be tested as well. She performed the IUI without providing this information to me, and left me to find out about it on my own on the very day that I had the procedure performed. Her reason for NOT informing me was that she wanted to protect my privacy. There is no privacy between a patient and their doctor.
Dr [Balthazar] was always very enthusiastic when she spoke to us. She was always positive but never gave us false hope. She always explained every step of the process. She always made me feel like she knew me personally and was hoping for the best for us. Very friendly....I’m in a same sex relationship. Our choice was for me to carry using my wife’s embryos. We used donor sperm....
[RMA] Strengths-friendly organized clean warm inviting. The only thing I can say was in the beginning they did not explain much to us and we would leave wondering what was next...One thing I greatly appreciated was response time. They always promptly returned emails or phone calls. They always knew what was next and even helped me obtain medication I was not prepared to pay for. Great staff!.. Otherwise I love this clinic, staff and drs. I never felt uncomfortable here and I loved the whole experience.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr was always very enthusiastic when she spoke to us. She was always positive but never gave us false hope. She always explained every step of the process. She always made me feel like she knew me personally and was hoping for the best for us. Very friendly. Best dr I’ve ever encountered.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Trust in the process and the doctors orders. She will do what’s best and not any less. Asking questions is ok. She will will be honest.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Going to this clinic they always knew our story and were always on top of where we were in the process. They are honest and made us feel like they want the best for us. Always felt comfortable.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
I’m in a same sex relationship. Our choice was for me to carry using my wife’s embryos. We used donor sperm. My wife had a fibroid that had to be removed first in March 2017. The fibroid was blocking one of her ovaries. Once removed the ovary was visible and not so high up. She started estradiol and CoQ10 to help her egg quality since her AMH was low; that was started in June. Dr said the CoQ10 would help with egg quality and the longer she was on it the better. She then started birth control to control her cycle in July. Fertility meds started in August were Lupron, Follistim and Menopur. That was for about 11 days before egg retrieval. We retrieved 3 mature eggs and only one made it to day five for freezing. I started birth control in September and Lupron injections. I started Estrace in October and my baseline showed that my lining was too thick I believe it was at a 18-19. So we canceled the protocol. I restarted birth control in Nov this time without the Lupron. I did start the Estrace again and continued with progesterone injections, Endometrin doxycycline and Medrol. However in the beginning of Nov I went in to have a hysteroscopy with Dr Balthazar since my lining was so thick and I have heavy cycles. She removed polyps that lined my uterus. Having this done my lining looked a lot better. However the day of the transfer it was still very thick at about 17 or around there. Dr Balthazar advised since we’ve done everything we could do we would move forward with the transfer. Transfer day was Dec 4th and I tested negative Dec 14th. We have a follow up next week.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Rebecca, Inthira and Amy)
One thing I greatly appreciated was response time. They always promptly returned emails or phone calls. They always knew what was next and even helped me obtain medication I was not prepared to pay for. Great staff!
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Strengths-friendly organized clean warm inviting. The only thing I can say was in the beginning they did not explain much to us and we would leave wondering what was next. I understand it’s a process but maybe they should somehow explain that everything will be done in steps and explained as we go. Otherwise I love this clinic, staff and drs. I never felt uncomfortable here and I loved the whole experience.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
The reciprocal ivf cycle cost was $15,950. Mental health counseling was about $150. Medications costs about $7,000.
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
If we would have had more than one embryo to transfer we would have chosen two.
All the doctors at the RMA clinic discuss all of their cases, so it was our preference to interact with Dr. Balthazar more than other doctors there. Dr. Balthazar brings a lot of energy to your case. While being realistic with outcomes (she doesn't promise it will work), she is very upbeat and a huge cheerleader for you. She'll let you know if something doesn't look right and explains why she is suggesting a certain protocol. She will know you and your partner by name and does a great job communicating in person and over email.
I went through a lot of procedures with RMA. With each new procedure there was a "discount" that was applied. Once or twice, when I ran out of medication and needed a very small amount to finish my protocol, they were able to provide me with the medication.... Erica [a nurse] was a good communicator and answered our questions during our first procedure. Her communication, management and follow through of our case and protocols steadily declined with each procedure. By the end, I felt like I was managing my own case. Guess she assumed we knew what we were doing, which should never be the case. The fact that we were working with Dr. Balthazar may have also been an issue.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
We initially worked with Dr. Arredondo at RMA-Stone Oak, but had interactions with Dr. Balthazar during some of our visits. After a few procedures with Dr. Arredondo, I asked to be switched to Dr. Balthazar as our main doctor to interact with because she had a much more friendly and positive bedside manner. All the doctors at the RMA clinic discuss all of their cases, so it was our preference to interact with Dr. Balthazar more than other doctors there. Dr. Balthazar brings a lot of energy to your case. While being realistic with outcomes (she doesn't promise it will work), she is very upbeat and a huge cheerleader for you. She'll let you know if something doesn't look right and explains why she is suggesting a certain protocol. She will know you and your partner by name and does a great job communicating in person and over email.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Some people may find Dr. Balthazar's energy overwhelming. She can be loud. However, she is extremely knowledgeable and friendly and will be a champion for you. I highly recommend her.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar is a very warm, friendly and enthusiastic doctor. She will call you and your partner by name - and actually knows it, not just from a chart. She knew our case well, indicated that she thought about our case often, and even walked us through her thought process for each procedure. She has a warm, energetic and upbeat bedside manner and is willing to answer any question you have of her. She is also very good at responding to emails.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
We went through three rounds of frozen embryo transfer. I do remember that after our first unsuccessful round, my husband and I saw a news report on ERA testing, which determines an individual's implantation window. We brought it up with Dr. Balthazar at the time and we discussed it. It was a very new test at the time. After discussing it, however, it was determined to not do ERA testing because the protocol recommended was different than the first round. After our failed second frozen embryo transfer, it was decided we should go through the ERA testing. We did the ERA test and it turns out my implantation window was different than when we had been transferring in the past. The third frozen embryo attempt failed as well, so I don't know if the ERA test would have worked in round 2 or not. However, I know that ERA testing is being used quite a bit now at RMA.
My understanding is that doctors don't want patients to go through every single test out there because a lot of the tests may not be needed. Doctors seem to have a process in place for most cases: Try protocol 1 and that works on x% of people. If it doesn't work for you, try protocol 2 and that works for another x% of people. If that doesn't work, try the next protocol...and so on. This is just my observation and from talking to other women going through infertility treatments.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Erica)
I think Erica generally supports Dr. Arredondo, but she continued to support us when we switched to Dr. Balthazar. Erica was a good communicator and answered our questions during our first procedure. Her communication, management and follow through of our case and protocols steadily declined with each procedure. By the end, I felt like I was managing my own case. Guess she assumed we knew what we were doing, which should never be the case. The fact that we were working with Dr. Balthazar may have also been an issue.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
In my opinion, RMA at Stone Oak is the best fertility clinic in San Antonio, based on my experience and talking with other women about their experiences. They are very organized, well-educated, and run a successful clinic. They will be able to answer your questions and give you an honest assessment of potential issues and solutions.
With that said, I feel like lately they are very focused on increasing their volume of patients. They have started running advertisements on television for their clinic and promoting INVOcell. The positive in this is that INVOcell is less expensive and less invasive than other forms of IVF so if you are a candidate, that is great news. But again, it feels like it's becoming more of a competition for largest volume of patients at the clinic.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I went through a lot of procedures with RMA. With each new procedure there was a "discount" that was applied. Once or twice, when I ran out of medication and needed a very small amount to finish my protocol, they were able to provide me with the medication.
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
RMA promotes a single birth as the best possible outcome. They will show you statistics of issues with mom and baby for multiple births. However, at the end of the day, they say that they act as a coach and you as the patient have the final say in how many embryos are transferred. But, I think they limit it to 2 embryos transferred at one time.
If I had any questions, I was able to email her [Dr. Ursula Balthazar] directly. When I had my chemical pregnancy, she was the one who gave me hope and convinced me to keep trying. When I got pregnant during my 3rd FET and my first beta came back at only 18, she was honest about the chances of a successful pregnancy. During those first few scary weeks of not knowing if I would miscarry, she was with me every step of the way.
I had a lot of problems with my insurance [while being treated at RMA of Texas], mainly because I had 2 policies. Claims were being sent to both companies and coming back as rejected. I had to get into a few heated phone conversations, and I felt at times like things weren't explained to me fully. I'm not sure if this was the fault of the clinic or the insurance company. I was told from the clinic that certain things had been done, but when I talked to the insurance company they claimed the opposite.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
I liked Dr. Balthazar from the moment I met her. She is smart, caring and truly makes you feel like she cares about you. I had just about given up hope of ever getting pregnant and she gave me that hope back. She was honest and explained all aspects of the treatment protocol, including any changes that were made. If I had any questions, I was able to email her directly. When I had my chemical pregnancy, she was the one who gave me hope and convinced me to keep trying. When I got pregnant during my 3rd FET and my first beta came back at only 18, she was honest about the chances of a successful pregnancy. During those first few scary weeks of not knowing if I would miscarry, she was with me every step of the way. She had the perfect balance of being honest and giving me hope.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Don't be afraid to ask questions. She will take the time to answer them and to explain anything you don't understand.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar truly went above and beyond to make me feel like she truly cared about me and wanted my treatment to succeed. She made the effort to get to know me and to make sure that I felt comfortable with every aspect of my treatment.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy )
My nurse was just as amazing as Dr. Balthazar. She got my schedules to me on time, she was always proactive regarding my prescriptions and my insurance. She explained the injections and answered any questions I had. She also made me feel like she truly cared about me.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Overall, I am very happy with the clinic. The staff always made me feel like more than just a number. They knew my name and always greeted me with a smile. I did have a few problems with the insurance coordinator. I had 2 insurance plans, one through my employer and one through my husband's employer. I had to fight multiple times with them to ensure that the claims were processed through the correct insurance. I would suggest to any new patient to make sure you are familiar with your insurance plan. Ask questions. Make sure someone explains things to you. Ask more questions. Do not be afraid to be your own advocate.
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I was always advised that single embryo transfer was the best option for me.
What specific things went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I had a lot of problems with my insurance, mainly because I had 2 policies. Claims were being sent to both companies and coming back as rejected. I had to get into a few heated phone conversations, and I felt at times like things weren't explained to me fully. I'm not sure if this was the fault of the clinic or the insurance company. I was told from the clinic that certain things had been done, but when I talked to the insurance company they claimed the opposite.
She [Dr. Ursula Balthazar] has the best bedside manner and makes it feel like you are a friend or family member that she is treating... Pretty standard big treatment for egg retrieval. Lining was too thick so fresh transfer was cancelled and did a frozen. After the first failed transfer I had a surgery to check my uterus for any abnormalities as well as switched to estrogen patches which resulted in a positive pregnancy test
Amy [a nurse at RMA of TX-San Antonio] was amazing! She gave me her personal cell phone number so that if I had any crazy questions about injections or medication. I could get a hold of her after hours... The one thing about the clinic that I would change is the waiting room it just seems a little dated and unorganized but behind the scenes it is opposite. The staff is beyond amazing and once you start you injection etc you rarely have to wait for blood work and appointments
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
The sweetest doctor she has a way of making this difficult experience seem so easy and has a way of getting you excited for each step. She has the best bedside manner and makes it feel like you are a friend or family member that she is treating
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Ask questions she will be very upfront with the answers and any potential complications or setbacks
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
The one thing that made me felt like a human was when the first cycle failed Dr. Bahltazar called me directly to give me the news and y’all through what her plan was
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
Pretty standard big treatment for egg retrieval. Lining was too thick so fresh transfer was cancelled and did a frozen. After the first failed transfer I had a surgery to check my uterus for any abnormalities as well as switched to estrogen patches which resulted in a positive pregnancy test
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy)
Amy was amazing! She gave me her personal cell phone number so that if I had any crazy questions about injections or medication. I could get a hold of her after hours
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
The one thing about the clinic that I would change is the waiting room it just seems a little dated and unorganized but behind the scenes it is opposite. The staff is beyond amazing and once you start you injection etc you rarely have to wait for blood work and appointments
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I was very lucky to have amazing insurance coverage but out of pocket medications and all it is close to 5k
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I was only able to transfer one embryo due to having a unicornuate uterus and insurance coverage
What specific things went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
One thing that happened was the scheduler for my surgery failed to call me about a change in time for my surgery at an off site facility. It resulted in me waiting for a while but Dr Balthazar came running (literally ran in) as soon as she could make it over and explained there was another patient emergency and she apologized many many times
I can't say enough good things. She [Dr. Balthazar] was so positive & upbeat. After 2 failed cycles at another clinic in NYC, with no resulting viable eggs and several consultations with other doctors, I had very lottle hope left. Dr. Balthazar believed from the beginning that we could get blasts, even after seeing my previous results. She said there was no reason to believe otherwise & she was right! I got the most eggs I had ever gotten (4- which was great for my diagnosis). She wasn't focused on how few follicles I had, unlike the other doctors. She was focused on the quality of the 4 I had. And we got all 4 & all 4 were mature & all 4 fertilized.
They [RMA]are very friendly and welcoming and warm. The nurses remember you and ask how you are, even if you are like me, not a very outgoing friendly person...[Nurse] Amy was pretty good. When she wasn't out of the office, she got back to me right away and answered the majority of my questions....I think one time my instructions said 1 thing different from what I was supposed to do, I don't remember what it was though & I'm sure it got cleared up right away.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
I can't say enough good things. She was so positive & upbeat. After 2 failed cycles at another clinic in NYC, with no resulting viable eggs and several consultations with other doctors, I had very lottle hope left. Dr. Balthazar believed from the beginning that we could get blasts, even after seeing my previous results. She said there was no reason to believe otherwise & she was right! I got the most eggs I had ever gotten (4- which was great for my diagnosis). She wasn't focused on how few follicles I had, unlike the other doctors. She was focused on the quality of the 4 I had. And we got all 4 & all 4 were mature & all 4 fertilized. Every step of the way was an amazing accomplishment. She was always smiling & saying we were going to succeed. No other doctors that I saw were so positive and nice.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
To not waste time with anyone else and go straight to her!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
I received the best treatment from Dr. Balthazar out of all the doctors I actually saw and all the others I spoke to on the phone. She was the only woman, I don't know if that had anything to do with it. She was more positive & upbeat than any other doctor, by far!
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
I don't know the name of the protocol, but it is their diminished ovarian reserve protocol. I think I started with estrogen priming, I know I used birth control after that. I then used Menopur, Follistim and Lupron. Growth Hormone was added later. It was a long protocol, and it worked!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy Altimaro)
Amy was pretty good. When she wasn't out of the office, she got back to me right away and answered the majority of my questions.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
They are very friendly and welcoming and warm. The nurses remember you and ask how you are, even if you are like me, not a very outgoing friendly person.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
It was a little over $13,000 for the entire cycle, including anesthesia, ICSI, retrieval, transfer and a follow up ultrasound or two. Then they started billing insurance for follow ups and I paid my co-pay.
What specific things went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
I think one time my instructions said 1 thing different from what I was supposed to do, I don't remember what it was though & I'm sure it got cleared up right away.
My husband & I have been trying to conceive for a total of about 5 years, and the road to starting that family has not been easy. Dr. Balthazar from the start was an extraordinary RE. Our first fresh IVF round took and we were pregnant! Unfortunately at my 8 week sonogram Dr. Balthazar had concerns of our pregnancy being a cornual ectopic. Dr. Balthazar went above and beyond to find the top specialists in San Antonio to give their expertise opinions. When each of them concluded her worst fears, Dr. Balthazar set me up with a world renown surgeon to preform a laparoscopic robotic surgery to remove our pregnancy.
Amy [nurse at RMA of Texas] is an amazing nurse & fertility coach. If I ever have any questions or concerns, Amy is more than willing to help in any way that she can. Amy is an excellent nurse with outstanding bedside manner and excellent patient care...Everyone at RMA is extremely kind and caring...The facility is extremely clean and is in the best of condition! RMA has a comfort feel that isn't found elsewhere. RMA sets the bar for excellent fertility care.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar is an amazing RE. She has a wonderful bedside manner, prestigious professional input in all protocols, quick to answer any questions or concerns, open to patients desires, and she always puts you as her number one priority.
Dr. Balthazar always makes me feel like I am more to her than a patient. She is always so open to understanding your life outside of reproductive medicine. My husband is a frequent international traveler throughout the year, and she always makes sure to find ways to include him in scans, meetings, or appointments. She is always concerned of how I am handling things without him here, especially after the cornual pregnancy and each of our failed FET'S. Dr. Balthazar has become so much more to me than just my RE, she has grown to hold such a special place in my heart. I trust her and know without a doubt she will help get us to where we need to be to get that BFP!!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
The one piece of advice I would give to any future fertility patient (regardless of the doctor) is to go in with questions. Do not rely on Google to answer them.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
My husband & I have been trying to conceive for a total of about 5 years, and the road to starting that family has not been easy. Dr. Balthazar from the start was an extraordinary RE. Our first fresh IVF round took and we were pregnant! Unfortunately at my 8 week sonogram Dr. Balthazar had concerns of our pregnancy being a cornual ectopic. Dr. Balthazar went above and beyond to find the top specialists in San Antonio to give their expertise opinions. When each of them concluded her worst fears, Dr. Balthazar set me up with a world renown surgeon to preform a laparoscopic robotic surgery to remove our pregnancy. Dr. Balthazar was beside me every step of the way. Dr. Balthazar visited me in my room prior to my procedure, explained what was going to happen and why. Dr. Balthazar sat in the surgical room with me, and promised they me they wouldn't take the one thing we had prayed so hard for, without being 100% sure that scans were accurate and termination was in fact the right course of action. After the procedure Dr. Balthazar went with the surgeon to talk to my family and explain how the procedure went. After the procedure she followed up with me extremely closely and showed genuine concern for me as not only as a human being, but as a woman. Upon my first set of testings after the removal of our cornual pregnancy, Dr. Balthazar showed as much as enthusiasm as we had to try to get us that BFP! And after both our FET'S ended in negative betas, & our final embryo was used Dr. Balthazar gave me her sincerest of pep talks. Dr. Balthazar is an extraordinary RE, whom saved my life and has given me a fighting chance at motherhood. There are no words that will ever be able to describe my gratitude for Dr. Balthazar and her staff, I have always felt like my husband and I are their number one priority.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
For my fresh cycle Dr. Balthazar placed me on Lupron, Follistim , Menopur, and PIO (I can't remember if I was on Esterase or not). Baseline scans showed 12 follicles. My IVF cycle resulted in 12 eggs retrieved, 11 mature, 11 fertilized, 9 made it to day 3, and 3 made it to day 5 expanding BB blastocysts. For my FET 1 I was on Lupron, Esterase, Doxycycline, Medrol, and PIO. For FET2 I was on Esterase, Doxycycline, Medrol, and PIO.
Due to my husbands international travel we used a frozen sample from him.
Throughout it all I have taken 2000IU of Vitamin D3 and a prenatal. Prior to egg retrieval I was placed on CoQ10 600mg.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy Altamirano)
Amy is an amazing nurse & fertility coach. If I ever have any questions or concerns, Amy is more than willing to help in any way that she can. Amy is an excellent nurse with outstanding bedside manner and excellent patient care.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Everyone at RMA is extremely kind and caring. Employers always ensure that you have the absolute best care. The facility is extremely clean and is in the best of condition! RMA has a comfort feel that isn't found elsewhere. RMA sets the bar for excellent fertility care.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Roughly $30,000 for everything. Insurance did not cover any testings, cycle or prescriptions.
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
She [Dr Balthazar] also will express her concerns openly, but in a gentle and caring manner. For us, her concern was the possibility of having multiples. She did everything in her power to make sure we were able to get pregnant with the singleton that we so wanted....Since I have PCOS, Dr. Balthazar had to find a way to make me ovulate. She took a look at my ovaries via an internal sonogram and showed my husband and I my "classic" case of PCOS. Since I am still young, she didn't feel like Clomid would be effective. The side effects can be harsch and she didn't think it would be worth it. After having my Hysterosalpingogram to see that my fallopian tubes were open and functioning (as well as my husband having his sperm checked to ensure that he was not part of the issue) and a variety of blood tests, she prescribed a 5 day long dose of Letrozole. She explained possible side effects but I chose to take the drug at night, before I went to sleep, to avoid any nausea. I had absolutely no side effects from taking the drug. I went back to the clinic about 10 days later for my second internal sonogram and the drug had worked. I had 4 potential eggs that could "win out" and be ovulated that month. This was good news and bad news for Dr. Balthazar. She brought me back in about 4 days later to check via internal sonogram to make sure it would be safe to try to conceive. Fortunately, only 2 follicles had finished maturing and would be ovulated. She had me use an at home ovulation kit to determine the exact day that my husband and I would need. This was also a money saving factor- my insurance did not cover any treatments. About 2 weeks later, an at home pregnancy test (also to save money) revealed that I was pregnant after only one round of Letrozole. Again, since I am only in my 20's and to save money, Dr. Balthazar had me follow up with my own OB-GYN since those visits would be covered by insurance. I was sad to no longer be working with her, but my husband I look forward to seeing her again when we want to have a second child.
Every single nurse [at RMA of Texas] is quite possibly the friendliest person you've ever met. They all have impeccable bedside manner. They are kind and compassionate and not the slightest bit judgmental as you proceed through what can be a very embarrassing and personal time in your life....The clinic is clean, modern, and a one stop shop. You can get everything you need taken care of in one place. I didn't have to leave to go anywhere else for bloodwork, the Hysterosalpingogram, or anything else. Everyone you encounter is friendly and there to help you, even if you are not under their care specifically. The wall of baby footprints from successful fertility treatments at RMA sent a wave of hope over my husband and I. The chalkboard wall where you can write why you are there is wonderfully inspirational to people who are struggling for something as "simple" as having a baby.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar explains everything in a way that people who aren't physicians can understand. She helps to create a plan with you and your spouse that suits your needs, your desired outcomes, and what you are comfortable with in terms of invasive fertility treatments. She also will express her concerns openly, but in a gentle and caring manner. For us, her concern was the possibility of having multiples. She did everything in her power to make sure we were able to get pregnant with the singleton that we so wanted.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
If you are searching for a doctor who is compassionate and who is going to guide you through this tough patch with grace and humor, Dr. Balthazar is the fertility doctor for you.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
Dr. Balthazar understood that our desire was to start a family. She made us feel like our case was a priority to her. At our initial appointment, we got answers and the prescriptions we needed. There wasn't any hassle to it, and she didn't seem the least bit inconvenienced. She took her time explaining everything to us and never made us feel like anything was wrong with us because we couldn't get pregnant on our own.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
Since I have PCOS, Dr. Balthazar had to find a way to make me ovulate. She took a look at my ovaries via an internal sonogram and showed my husband and I my "classic" case of PCOS. Since I am still young, she didn't feel like Clomid would be effective. The side effects can be harsch and she didn't think it would be worth it. After having my Hysterosalpingogram to see that my fallopian tubes were open and functioning (as well as my husband having his sperm checked to ensure that he was not part of the issue) and a variety of blood tests, she prescribed a 5 day long dose of Letrozole. She explained possible side effects but I chose to take the drug at night, before I went to sleep, to avoid any nausea. I had absolutely no side effects from taking the drug. I went back to the clinic about 10 days later for my second internal sonogram and the drug had worked. I had 4 potential eggs that could "win out" and be ovulated that month. This was good news and bad news for Dr. Balthazar. She brought me back in about 4 days later to check via internal sonogram to make sure it would be safe to try to conceive. Fortunately, only 2 follicles had finished maturing and would be ovulated. She had me use an at home ovulation kit to determine the exact day that my husband and I would need. This was also a money saving factor- my insurance did not cover any treatments. About 2 weeks later, an at home pregnancy test (also to save money) revealed that I was pregnant after only one round of Letrozole. Again, since I am only in my 20's and to save money, Dr. Balthazar had me follow up with my own OB-GYN since those visits would be covered by insurance. I was sad to no longer be working with her, but my husband I look forward to seeing her again when we want to have a second child.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
Every single nurse is quite possibly the friendliest person you've ever met. They all have impeccable bedside manner. They are kind and compassionate and not the slightest bit judgmental as you proceed through what can be a very embarassing and personal time in your life.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
The clinic is clean, modern, and a one stop shop. You can get everything you need taken care of in one place. I didn't have to leave to go anywhere else for bloodwork, the Hysterosalpingogram, or anything else. Everyone you encounter is friendly and there to help you, even if you are not under their care specifically. The wall of baby footprints from successful fertility treatments at RMA sent a wave of hope over my husband and I. The chalkboard wall where you can write why you are there is wonderfully inspirational to people who are struggling for something as "simple" as having a baby.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
We spent $700 total for the Hysterosalpingogram, blood work, sperm analysis, 3 internal sonograms, and 3 separate appointments where we were seen by Dr. Balthazar each time.
While we are still in the middle of our treatment I know without a doubt that Dr Balthazar is doing what she feels is the absolute best for my husband and I as we seek to grow our family. I have appreciated her openness, her hopefulness, but more than anything I have appreciated her honesty. ... She really encouraged us to talk about our options and to grieve the loss when we had a miscarriage as well as the very hopeful for the future.
My husband and I have really enjoyed, which is a lot to say during this time the staff Aspire. They know what people are going through and I’ve felt like their priority when I’m there. They are kind, informative and always smiling. ... [Nurse] Amy was wonderful and very through in explanations. ... All the medications that we used she [Dr. Balthazar] walked us through them and had her nurse and fertility Coach Amy give us a class on how to use and when to use as well as the calendar.
How was your experience with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
While we are still in the middle of our treatment I know without a doubt that Dr Balthazar is doing what she feels is the absolute best for my husband and I as we seek to grow our family. I have appreciated her openness, her hopefulness, but more than anything I have appreciated her honesty.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
To not be afraid to ask Questions, to advocate for your needs and what you feel might be best for you and your family. She really likes to hear your perspective and your thoughts so be prepared to have thoughtful discussions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic)?
I truly felt from the moment I met Dr. Balthazar that she cared about my husband and I. She really encouraged us to talk about our options and to grieve the loss when we had a miscarriage as well as the very hopeful for the future.
Describe the protocols Ursula Balthazar used in your cycles at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic) and their degree of success.
We are still in the process of stims. All the medications that we used she walked us through them and had her nurse and fertility Coach Amy give us a class on how to use and when to use as well as the calendar.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic). (Assigned nurse: Amy )
Amy was wonderful and very through in explanations.
Describe your experience with Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
My husband and I have really enjoyed, which is a lot to say during this time the staff. They know what people are going through and I’ve felt like their priority when I’m there. They are kind, informative and always smiling.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ursula Balthazar at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).
20,000 for premium IVF.
Describe Ursula Balthazar's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Aspire Fertility - San Antonio (Prelude Network clinic).