Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility Expert Witnesses
Highly qualified medical experts in infertility and related disorders
Infertility is a medical term that refers to the biological inability of a person to contribute to conception. Infertility may also refer to the state of a woman who is unable to carry a pregnancy to full term. There are numerous biological causes of infertility, some of which can be bypassed with medical interventions.
The medical specialty that deals with the issue of infertility is called reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI), which is considered a subspecialty of obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN). Physicians specializing in this field are called reproductive endocrinologists or REI specialists. While most REI specialists primarily focus on treating infertility, they are also trained to evaluate and treat hormonal dysfunctions in females and males outside of infertility.
In the United States, reproductive endocrinologists must complete a medical degree (MD or DO), followed by a four-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology and a two- to three-year fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. Board Certification in REI is administered by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG).
What is REI malpractice?
Some examples of medical malpractice that a reproductive endocrinologist could commit include:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of infertility issues, which could lead to inappropriate treatment.
- Inadequate or improper management of fertility treatments, such as failure to monitor ovulation induction or in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles, which can result in complications such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
- Negligent handling of eggs or embryos.
- Inappropriate or non-consensual use of donor sperm or eggs.
In cases involving malpractice in infertility treatment and IVF, a Board-Certified reproductive endocrinologist can explain the applicable standards of care and offer a professional opinion on whether the standard of care was met. REI specialists can analyze the potential causes of an adverse outcome or complication, such as a failed IVF cycle or a birth defect, and provide expert opinions on whether the REI's actions or inactions contributed to the outcome
The role of an infertility specialist as an expert witness
Many types of injuries and illnesses, including toxic exposure, can cause infertility. In legal cases arising from such matters, an REI specialist can provide an expert opinion on the cause of infertility and whether it was due to the injury or illness, or a pre-existing medical condition.
An REI specialist can offer opinions on the psychological and emotional impact of infertility, including potential emotional distress. A reproductive endocrinologist can also provide an expert opinion on the long-term medical and financial consequences of fertility treatment, including the cost of treatment, possible complications, and the patient’s overall medical outlook. These factors can play a significant role in calculating compensation for the plaintiff.
Find the infertility expert you need
Finding the right reproductive endocrinologist can make a dramatic difference in legal matters involving infertility and infertility treatment. Rieback Medical-Legal Consultants has access to highly qualified, Board-Certified REI specialists who are prepared to offer compelling, objective testimony in depositions and at trial. Contact us today for a free case summary review.