Fertility treatments: The role of the gynecologist and the reproductive biologist

When a person decides to try for a baby, they rarely imagine everything that goes into a fertility treatment: science, technology, emotions… and above all, teamwork.

In Mexico, it is estimated that 1.5 million couples face difficulties conceiving, and this often requires the intervention of highly specialized professionals. According to INEGI data, infertility affects 11.8% of women of reproductive age, and a significant portion of these cases requires the care of a gynecologist specializing in human reproduction or a reproductive biologist.¹

In a world where 1 in 6 people experiences some form of fertility issue, having a team that works in coordination is not a luxury: it is a necessity (WHO, 2023).² 

At Fertilidad Integral, we believe that science and emotional support must go hand in hand. 

Who’s who in your treatment?

During a fertility treatment, both roles are enhanced. Your gynecologist is your first point of contact. For this reason, it is essential to understand the differences between a general gynecologist and a gynecologist specializing in human reproduction. The former is responsible for the health of the female reproductive system: from routine check-ups to managing conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, or hormonal imbalances.

When there are difficulties in achieving a pregnancy, their role is key:

- Ordering hormonal tests and performing ultrasounds.

- Detecting potential gynecological causes of infertility.

- Guiding you on the steps to follow, and in many cases, referring your case to a specialized fertility clinic.

According to data from Top Doctors (2024), a comprehensive gynecological evaluation can identify factors that directly influence fertility and avoid unnecessary delays in diagnosis.³

Although both are doctors, a gynecologist specializing in human reproduction has completed a medical subspecialty in this field. This allows them to go beyond basic diagnosis and offer advanced fertility treatments, such as:

- Timed intercourse

- Intrauterine insemination (IUI)

- In vitro fertilization (IVF)

- Complementary techniques such as ROPA or fertility preservation.

This specialist designs the treatment protocol, provides clinical follow-up, and coordinates every stage of the process together with the laboratory team.

This chart illustrates how key roles are distributed in a fertility treatment. Although each specialty has a specific area of focus, the true value lies in their intersection: when gynecology and biology work in harmony, the treatment progresses with greater clarity, precision, and support.

Your choice matters: Keys to a trusting relationship with your specialist 

Choosing the medical team that will accompany you on your fertility journey is a decision as personal as it is crucial. As our specialist, Dr. Camila Cortes Novak, aptly points out: “It’s not just about finding a good professional in general, but one who adapts to you, your needs, and your outlook on life.” And this applies to both your gynecologist and your reproductive biologist.

Here are the keys to a successful and trusting relationship with both specialists:

a) Full trust and open communication:

‍It is essential that you feel completely comfortable sharing anything with them, no matter how intimate or embarrassing it may seem. Unreserved communication is the foundation for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan. If you feel you can speak openly and express doubts or concerns without fear of judgment, you know you are in the right place.‍

b) Adaptation to your individual needs:

Not all patients are the same, and neither are all situations. Your specialist should be able to adapt their approach to what you need at every stage. This ranges from how they communicate results and treatment options to the availability and accessibility you require during times of heightened anxiety, such as during fertility treatment.

c) Experience and subspecialization:

Beyond interpersonal skills, training and specialization are non-negotiable. For fertility treatment, it is vital that your gynecologist has a subspecialty in human reproduction.

Remember… asking about their background and approach to your specific needs is an efficient way to ensure the best care.

What is the step-by-step process?

Often, the first step in starting fertility treatment is visiting a gynecologist, who will evaluate your reproductive health and can identify if it is time to go to a specialized clinic. 

Here is what the journey usually looks like…

a) Initial gynecological consultation:

An initial evaluation, ultrasounds, and basic tests are performed; if causes of infertility are detected, a referral to a specialized clinic is recommended.

b) Admission to a fertility clinic:

The reproductive biologist is responsible for designing the protocol (stimulation, egg retrieval, laboratory work, transfer) and coordinates the clinical steps with you.

c) Support during treatment

• Gynecologist: continues to evaluate you during consultations, performs ultrasounds, monitors your health and emotions, and subsequently manages your pregnancy follow-up.
• Biologist: works alongside the embryologists in the laboratory (IVF, culture, selection) and adjusts the protocol based on your response.

Beyond medicine… 

At Fertilidad Integral, we believe that support does not end in the doctor's office. That is why our team works not only with science but also with empathy.

Our highly trained medical team is here to talk with you, listen to you, and work to provide the best care—ensuring, above all, that you feel safe. 

Because every story is unique. And you deserve care that is, too.

‍References:

¹ National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI). (2024, May 22). National Survey of Demographic Dynamics (ENADID) 2023. https://www.inegi.org.mx/contenidos/saladeprensa/boletines/2024/ENADID/ENADID2023.pdf

² World Health Organization. (2023). 1 in 6 people globally affected by infertility. https://www.who.int/news/item/04-04-2023-1-in-6-people-globally-affected-by-infertility

³ Farahani, L. (2024, December 13). The role of gynaecological ultrasounds in fertility: When to schedule a consultation. Top Doctors. https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/medical-articles/the-role-of-gynaecological-ultrasounds-in-fertility-when-to-schedule-a-consultation

‍