A Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) Fellowship is an elite, advanced training program for obstetrician-gynecologists (OB/GYNs) who want to become experts in the complex medical and surgical care of patients facing infertility and hormonal reproductive disorders.
This intensive, three-year program transforms a general OB/GYN into a sub-specialist capable of handling the most challenging cases in reproductive medicine.
What Does an REI Fellow Learn?
The fellowship provides deep, hands-on training in three critical areas:
1. Medical Management of Infertility and Hormonal Disorders:
Fellows learn to diagnose and treat the full spectrum of reproductive issues, including:
Female Infertility: Causes like ovulatory disorders (e.g., PCOS), diminished ovarian reserve, tubal blockages, and endometriosis.
Male Infertility: Evaluation and collaboration with urologists.
Reproductive Endocrine Disorders: Such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premature ovarian insufficiency, thyroid disorders affecting fertility, and recurrent pregnancy loss.
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: Investigating and managing complex causes of multiple miscarriages.
2. Advanced Reproductive Surgery:
Fellows master minimally invasive surgical techniques that are crucial for treating anatomical causes of infertility:
Operative Hysteroscopy: Surgery within the uterus to remove fibroids, polyps, or scar tissue (Asherman’s syndrome).
Operative Laparoscopy: “Keyhole” surgery in the abdomen to treat endometriosis, remove ovarian cysts, or repair damaged fallopian tubes.
3. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART):
This is a cornerstone of the training. Fellows become experts in:
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): The entire process, from ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval to embryo culture, transfer, and cryopreservation (freezing).
Fertility Preservation: Egg and embryo freezing for cancer patients or those delaying childbearing.
Other Advanced Techniques: Such as Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), and egg donation cycles.
The Role of Research
A significant portion of the fellowship is dedicated to research. Fellows are expected to:
Conduct clinical or basic science research projects.
Contribute to the scientific community’s understanding of reproductive medicine.
Publish their findings in medical journals and present at national conferences.
Career Paths After Fellowship
Completion of the fellowship leads to board eligibility in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Graduates are highly sought after for careers in:
Private Practice: Joining or establishing high-volume fertility clinics.
Academic Medicine: Becoming faculty at university hospitals, where they teach medical students and residents, conduct research, and care for complex patients.
Research Leadership: Leading clinical trials and developing new technologies and treatments in the field of reproductive medicine.
In essence, an REI fellowship creates the leading medical experts who guide individuals and couples through one of the most challenging journeys of their lives, using a combination of cutting-edge science, intricate surgery, and compassionate care.
Dr. Fatemeh Bakhtiari Ghale is a renowned obstetrician and gynecologist based in Tehran, specializing in infertility, laparoscopy, and IVF treatments. […]
