Reproductive endocrinology

The reproductive endocrinologists at Penn Medicine have specialty training in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) and reproductive endocrinology. They have expertise in evaluating and treating hormonal issues that impact fertility. Our providers also specialize in the latest minimally invasive surgeries to treat medical conditions that affect your reproductive organs.

Our reproductive endocrinology team takes a multidisciplinary approach to your care. They work closely with endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism specialists and can refer you for treatment if necessary. You receive the highest quality care from a compassionate team that addresses all aspects of your reproductive health.

Hormonal evaluation for infertility

Hormones play an important role in your reproductive health. An imbalance in any of the hormones that control menstruation and ovulation can contribute to infertility. These hormones are primarily produced by the ovaries, thyroid gland, pituitary gland, and hypothalamus, an area of the brain that controls the pituitary gland.

Hormonal imbalances are the leading cause of female infertility but are often treatable with medications. We treat many hormonal imbalances that affect fertility, including elevated levels of androgens (male hormones), pituitary or hypothalamic conditions, and thyroid problems.

If you’re struggling to get pregnant, our providers may recommend advanced blood or imaging tests that evaluate your:

• Hypothalamic pituitary function
• Ovarian function
• Thyroid function

If our infertility support specialists determine you have a hormone imbalance, they may monitor your hormone levels over time or prescribe medications to regulate hormones.

If you’re unable to get pregnant after trying for a year, you may want to see a reproductive endocrinologist. If you’re age 35 or older, we recommend seeing a specialist after six months.

Other reasons to see a reproductive endocrinologist include:

• Issues with your menstrual cycle
• One or more miscarriages
• Symptoms or diagnosis of endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Reproductive endocrinologists can also help people experiencing male infertility. Issues may include low sperm count, testicle pain or swelling, and sexual function problems.

If you or your partner plans to undergo a treatment that may interfere with fertility, a reproductive endocrinologist can help you protect your future fertility with fertility preservation treatments.

Adolescent reproductive endocrinology services

In many cases, hormone and glandular conditions start in adolescence. Adolescents can receive diagnosis and treatment for issues affecting reproductive and menstrual function from specialists in adolescent gynecology. Our providers work closely with adolescent and young adult medicine specialists to ensure comprehensive care for patients specifically between the ages of 12 and 30.