A model for initial care of the infertile couple

Infertility affects an estimated 6.1 million women in the United States. Although more than 1.2 million women seek medical care for infertility each year, the majority drop out of the treatment process before achieving a successful pregnancy. An expert panel of five reproductive endocrinologists developed the Individualized Infertility Care Plan model to aid obstetrician-gynecologists and primary care physicians in streamlining the critical period encompassing diagnosis and initial treatment of the patient with uncomplicated infertility. The model emphasizes the importance of the physician's establishing a strong, lasting relationship with the infertile patient.