Reproductive endocrinology
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Reproductive endocrinology (RE) is a medical subspecialty that addresses hormonal functioning as it pertains to reproduction. While a major focus of RE is infertility, reproductive endocrinologists also evaluate and treat hormonal dysfunctions in female and males outside of infertility. Reproductive surgeons operate on anatomical disorders that affect fertility. Reproductive specialists usually have a specialty training in obstetrics and gynecology before they undergo subspecialty training for female reproductive endocrinology or in urology prior to subspecialty training for male reproductive endocrinology.
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[edit] Fields of interest
[edit] Female infertility
A significant part of reproductive endocrinology is concerned with the diagnosis and management of infertility. Thus reproductive endocrinologists evaluate and treat couples with reproductive disorders, may perform reproductive surgery, and often utilize in-vitro fertilization to achieve pregnancy.
[edit] Reproductive surgery
Complex surgery in women or men that aims to preserve reproductive potential is often done by RE specialist.
[edit] Non-infertility issues
Reproductive endocrinologists are especially trained to deal with complex hormonal issues in women or men.
[edit] Certification
In a number of countries the pathway to become a subspecialist in RE is regulated. Thus in the USA the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) sets the standards for subspecialtists to become certified. After a four-year training in Obstetrics and Gynecology a three-year approved fellowship needs to be successfully completed.
[edit] Societies
Reproductive endocrinologists often belong to specific medical societies, such as ASRM or ESHRE.
