Dearest Patients,
Words cannot quite describe emotions these days. The world has finally tasted a sliver of what you experience on a daily basis in your struggle to start or grow your family—uncertainty.
The holidays can sometimes make this seemingly endless state of uncertainty even more profound. Holiday cards, social media, advertisements in every corner of our lives focused on children and family. Social gatherings with endless questions (at least this year you can accidentally disconnect from zoom). The holidays are a time of togetherness, yet, for so many, feel completely isolating.
As doctors and scientists, we do not handle uncertainty well. We have a very difficult time saying, “I don’t know.” Even though, in many cases, this is ironically the most appropriate phrase.
We know you are frustrated, sad, tired, and angry at times. It’s ok. Many of us have been there where you stand today. Lost. Lonely. Defeated.
In a world of the uncertain and unexpected, one thing is for absolute certain, we are here and vow to do our absolute best to help you in any way we can. Not only as your doctors, but as your confidants and your unwavering support system. We are in your corner and on your side no matter what the world may bring.
This holiday season take care of yourself. Treat yourself. Give yourself a break. Let go of expectations. Let go of guilt. It’s ok to unplug, unwind, and focus on yourself for some time.
When you are ready, we will be here for you. Praying with you, wishing with you and hopefully celebrating with you in 2021.
Wishing you all a happy healthy and safe holiday season,
Your SGF Doctors
Your Care Team
The SGF Woodbridge practice proudly welcomes Jennifer Hsu, M.D., who will begin seeing patients late December 2020. The daughter of immigrants, Dr. Hsu’s parents’ pursuit of the American dream inspired her to work hard toward her goals: to become a reproductive endocrinologist who helps make patients’ dreams of having children a reality.
Dr. Hsu witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact of IVF within her own family, and it is through these treatments that some of the people she loves most in this world are alive. The combination of family building and cutting-edge science ensures that Dr. Hsu will always be both fascinated and motivated by the work she does.
Dr. Hsu will provide comprehensive fertility services to patients at the Woodbridge location, including:
- fertility and ovarian reserve testing and diagnosis;
- semen analysis;
- hysterosalpingogram (HSG);
- low-tech fertility options;
- in vitro fertilization (IVF);
- donor egg, sperm, and embryo;
- genetic screening and testing;
- gestational carrier;
- egg freezing;
- fertility preservation for patients with cancer;
- and LGBTQ family building.
As a University of Virginia Cavalier alumna, Dr. Hsu is proud to return to the state where her medical journey began. She earned a full undergraduate merit scholarship from UVA, where she continued her graduate studies and earned a medical degree. Dr. Hsu then traveled north to Columbia University Medical Center to complete her residency, followed by a move to Boston where she completed her fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at Massachusetts General Hospital. Today, she is board eligible in obstetrics and gynecology as well as reproductive endocrinology and infertility.
An accomplished researcher, Dr. Hsu has contributed to more than 15 presentations across the country on topics including intrauterine insemination (IUI), anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). She has also served as a peer-reviewer for several publications including the Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics.
Hear it Here First with Dr. Hsu
What is your approach to helping patients who are struggling?
Dr. Hsu: When patients are hurting, my vow is to stay by their side and help them through it. Whether they need someone to listen, grieve with, or help them make a plan, I will be there. The journey to parenthood can be difficult, but I hope my patients never feel that they are alone.
What about SGF makes you the proudest?
The 85,000 babies and counting born at SGF is nothing short of a miracle. I am immensely proud to be a part of this team of people who are all 100% dedicated to the goal of building families and making dreams a reality.
Who inspires you?
Dr. Hsu: My parents are a constant source of inspiration to me. They emigrated to the United States in pursuit of the American dream and instilled in my siblings and me the importance of hard work, humility, and dedication to our family. Though they experienced hardship and setbacks, my mother and father could not be broken. Their persistence and positivity are values I cherish and carry with me.
How would you describe your personality?
Dr. Hsu: I’m a people person. I enjoy meeting individuals from all walks of life and learning their unique personal stories. While I consider myself an eternal optimist, I’m also practical and level-headed. I care deeply about the well-being of those around me, and always aim to leave a place better than how I found it.
What is on your bucket list?
Dr. Hsu: My bucket list items include going on a safari and being in the studio audience of a Saturday Night Live episode someday. If I could time travel, I would have loved to see an original cast performance of Hamilton on Broadway.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Dr. Hsu: My interests include travel, cooking, and spending time with my husband and my son. We love being outdoors and taking advantage of the many beautiful parks and lakes around the DMV – hiking, picnicking, and kayaking.
What is something about you that would surprise most people?
Dr. Hsu: I worked abroad in Guatemala during medical school, and I am fluent in Spanish. If I had not become a doctor, I would consider being a professional chef or a financial advisor. Throughout my childhood, I worked in my family’s Chinese restaurant in Cincinnati, OH.
Special welcome to Robert Setton, M.D., the third NY-based and Cornell-trained physician to join the SGF New York family. A native of the Big Apple, Dr. Setton stayed local for his residency and fellowship, which he completed at Weill Cornell Medical Center. Dr. Setton will begin seeing new patients virtually based out of SGF’s Manhattan office initially, then transition to SGF’s brand new Brooklyn location in Spring 2021.
Like many members of the SGF staff, Dr. Setton can empathize with the experiences patients struggling with infertility go through because he has felt it, too. For years, Dr. Setton and his wife endured multiple fertility treatments with the hopes of starting a family. It was when he heard his son’s heartbeat for the first time that he knew he wanted to pivot his focus from cardiology to reproductive endocrinology. Today, Dr. Setton is committed to bringing hope, happiness, and care to his patients on their family-building journeys.
Dr. Setton is passionate about working with patients to overcome infertility, particularly with his extensive knowledge of diminished ovarian reserve, male infertility, and endometriosis. Additionally, he has published research with great expertise on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Get to Know Dr. Setton
Why did you become a doctor/reproductive endocrinologist?
Dr. Setton: My wife and I had struggled with infertility for several years and went through multiple fertility treatments and many failures before reaching that moment. I knew I had to bring that feeling of hope and happiness to others.
I originally went into medical school thinking I wanted to be a cardiologist. But when I did my OB/GYN rotation and learned about reproductive physiology and pregnancy, I was just completely blown away. I then thought I could blend my inclination for both of those fields by becoming a maternal-fetal medicine specialist and manage pregnant women with cardiovascular disease or other medical conditions. But later when my wife and I started our family-building journey and unexpectedly found ourselves turning to assisted reproductive technology, I decided to pivot and become a reproductive endocrinologist.
What is your approach to helping patients who are struggling?
Dr. Setton: I know that nobody wants to be turning to doctors and science to help them build a family and I remind myself of that every time I interact with a patient. Everyone’s fertility story is deeply personal and unique and my team and I are sensitive to that. I listen to a patient’s concerns and I put myself in their shoes. I remember that I’ve sat on that side of the table and have felt that vulnerability. After the evaluation, I work in partnership with the patient to solidify a plan that makes them comfortable and brings them to their desired goal as efficiently as possible.
What about SGF makes you proudest?
Dr. Setton: SGF is truly a patient-centered practice. The mantra that guides any decision that needs to be made is, “what would be best for the patient?” The practice was built on that principle and it has been its guiding light. Many of the employees have had personal struggles with family building themselves, and I think when they see how that patient-first mentality is embedded within the culture of SGF, they gravitate towards it and want to be a part of it. When every employee is focused on the patient experience, it creates a culture that’s full of positivity and excitement and support.
Who inspires you?
Dr. Setton: My wife. She went through an immeasurable amount of suffering and disappointment, but she always found a way to pick herself back up and keep fighting to build our family. She never wanted to give up even though the odds were stacked against her. She’s the reason I’m doing what I do today.
How would you describe your personality?
Dr. Setton: I’m often described as cool, calm, and collected. I’m warm, sensitive, personable, and just plain nice. I think I’m funny too, but my family says I just have “doctor humor.”
What is on your bucket list?
Dr. Setton: I want to sleep in a tent on a safari and see each of my kids have children of their own.
Patients may schedule a virtual appointment with Dr. Setton at SGF’s Manhattan location by calling 1-877-761-1967 or submit this brief form.
SGF’s Towson team of esteemed medical doctors grows with its newest physician, Dr. Selma Amrane, who will begin seeing patients in mid-November 2020. A proud Maryland native, Dr. Amrane is excited to return to her roots upon completing her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York City followed by a 3-year fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at Columbia University Medical Center.
Even as a young girl at the age of 12, Dr. Amrane knew she wanted to live a life focused on bringing new life into the world. Her grandmother was the first female obstetrician in her community at the time when it was uncommon for women to receive a higher education. It was her grandmother’s determination, resilience, and passion for women’s health that inspired her to pursue a similar path. Now, Dr. Amrane is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology and board eligible in reproductive endocrinology and infertility.
As the latest addition to SGF’s Towson Medical team, Dr. Amrane brings expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of infertility, including gynecologic endocrine issues, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), male-factor infertility, and infertility from endometriosis. She has also authored several peer-reviewed publications on topics such as preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Hear it Here First with Dr. Amrane
Why did you become a doctor/reproductive endocrinologist?
Dr. Amrane: I was inspired to become an OB/GYN starting at age 12. At that time, I began to learn about the incredible journey my grandmother took as the first female obstetrician in her community, which did not typically allow for women to be educated at that time. Her determination, resilience, and passion for women’s health inspired me to want to empower women through medical treatment.
Where did your interest in reproductive endocrinology come from?
Dr. Amrane: My interest in reproductive endocrinology began during medical school. In my fourth year, I did a rotation with an REI in New York, and fell in love with the field. Her closeness to her patients, the rapidly evolving science in the field, and the ultimate supreme happiness of getting patients pregnant drew me to this incredibly rewarding career.
Who inspires you?
Dr. Amrane: I get my daily inspiration from my grandmother, who is now retired. As the first female obstetrician in her community, her dedication to her patients was incredible, despite the large obstacles she faced. I am also inspired and humbled by my patients every day, who are prepared to fight to achieve the family they have always dreamed of, despite the challenges and constraints it may place on their lives.
Describe a time you were inspired by a patient.
Dr. Amrane: I am inspired by my patients every day! The first patient who comes to mind is a Spanish-speaking patient who traveled 2 hours each way to be seen. Unfortunately, she had several treatment failures, but despite this, the language barrier, and her long commute, she always stayed positive and would greet my staff and me with a humungous smile. Her resilience and positivity humbled and inspired me. Ultimately, she became pregnant and continued her positivity through pregnancy!
What about SGF makes you the proudest?
Dr. Amrane: I am most proud of the level of hard work and dedication of each and every team member at SGF. I think this has to do with how passionate each team member is about the extraordinary, noble goal of helping patients’ families grow, and I am proud to be a part of such a passionate group!
What is your approach to helping patients who are struggling?
Dr. Amrane: I take my time, as I believe that a little bit of extra time and comfort goes a long way. The process of fertility testing and treatment is not easy, and it is normal for patients to struggle. I lend an ear to listen and answer all the questions they may have.
How would you describe your personality?
Dr. Amrane: Caring with a big heart, loyal, and honest. I prefer to share the truth upfront with patients, although it may be difficult to share at times. However, I am a firm believer that only the truth can give us the power to move forward.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Dr. Amrane: I love sharing precious moments with my daughter and husband, and together, we love to experience different cultures by trying new foods and traveling. I also love to dance and bake – I have a real sweet tooth!
What are your hobbies and why do you enjoy them?
Dr. Amrane: I love to dance because it is an athletic art and a great workout, while producing beautiful movement and allowing for creativity. I also enjoy baking, photography, and time with family.
What is on your bucket list?
Dr. Amrane: Traveling to South Africa, the Sahara Desert, and Patagonia. Becoming fluent in one more language – maybe Portuguese!
What is something about you that would surprise most people?
Dr. Amrane: I lived in New York City for 11 years, and I speak French and Spanish fluently! I’m a native Marylander, and I am so excited to be back in Maryland and helping the people in my community grow their families!
Patients may schedule an appointment with Dr. Amrane at SGF’s Towson location by calling 1-877-761-1967 or submit this brief form.
Shady Grove Fertility is proud to welcome Valerie R. Libby, M.D., M.P.H., FACOG, to the Atlanta Medical Team. Dr. Libby will begin seeing patients in SGF’s Atlanta – Northside location in late September 2020 and will provide a full range of state-of-the-art, in-house diagnostic and treatment options for female and male infertility, elective egg freezing, LGBTQ family building, and fertility preservation prior to cancer treatment.
Dr. Libby earned her medical degree at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and completed her residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Parkland Hospital, University of Texas at Southwestern Medical Center. Dr. Libby went on to complete her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center/Case Western Reserve University.
Dr. Libby has published several peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts, book chapters, and review articles in many leading scientific journals in the fields of reproductive endocrinology and infertility. Her specific research interest is fertility preservation and egg freezing. She is a fellow of the American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology and a member of numerous medical organizations.
Dr. Libby’s clinical interests include any aspect of female and male infertility, in particular; making advances in in vitro fertilization, oocyte donation, recurrent pregnancy loss, fertility preservation, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
More about Dr. Valerie Libby
Why did you become a doctor/reproductive endocrinologist?
Dr. Libby: I became a doctor because I love helping people and observing the impact that my father and grandfathers had on their patients and the fulfillment they exude from their profession inspired me to pursue medicine.
Who inspires you?
Dr. Libby: My parents inspire me. My mom inspires me to create a beautiful home and family and my father inspires me to be a kind and innovative leader that tries to always make others feel good about themselves and to be the best physician that treats every patient like their own family.
What about SGF makes you the most proud?
Dr. Libby: There are so many reasons I am honored and thrilled to join SGF Atlanta. The first time I met with SGF, I learned about their core values of integrity, empathy, and increasing access to care—values directly aligned with my own.
As a patient of fertility myself, I understand the financial burden of IVF. SGF mitigates this risk significantly by sharing financial risk with the patients. SGF was the first fertility practice to create a IVF guarantee program and, though other practices attempt to emulate them, SGF provides the most affordable option for patients. Furthermore, SGF is constantly maintaining and improving their standards of care with evidence-based practices.
What is your approach to helping patients who are struggling?
Dr. Libby: First, I listen. I try to fully understand their concerns and struggles. Then, I validate their feelings and let them know they are not alone. I try to empathize with their struggle and connect with my patients. Finally, I attempt to evaluate their issues while explaining to the patient what I think may be the possible cause and how we can attempt to tackle the problem one step at a time.
How would you describe your personality?
Dr. Libby: I am outgoing and very positive and try my best to relate to people. I am a leader and love to mentor others whether they are my patients or my colleagues.
What is something about you that would surprise most people?
Dr. Libby:
- My father, two of my brothers, and uncle are all urologists so, to my mother’s dismay, our dinner conversations often involve the reproductive tract.
- I lived in Kenya for 7 months, speak some Swahili, Italian, Portuguese, and am fluent in Spanish.
- I froze my eggs 4 times
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Dr. Libby: I enjoy traveling and exploring new cultures. I love cooking and eating and therefore trying new restaurants. I also love being outdoors and keeping myself healthy with biking, tennis, and Pilates so I can enjoy those restaurants.
What’s on your bucket list?
Dr. Libby: Well, just like all my patients, I hope to have my own family one day. I love that I deeply understand this desire and can empathize with everyone that walks into my office.
Patients may schedule an appointment with Dr. Libby at SGF’s Atlanta-Northside location by calling 1-877-761-1967 or submit this brief form.
We are proud to announce that eight D.C.- and Virginia-based fertility specialists have been named as Top Docs for Infertility by Northern Virginia Magazine. Each of the board certified reproductive endocrinologists provide best-in-class fertility care and offer a full range of diagnostic and treatment options for male and female infertility. This year’s honorees include:
Paulette E. Browne, M.D. | Fair Oaks, VA
Rachana V. Garde, M.D., M.P.H. | Fairfax, VA
Naveed Khan, M.D. | Leesburg and Dulles-Aldie, VA
Eric D. Levens, M.D. | Fairfax, VA
Anitha Nair, M.D. | Arlington, VA, and K Street, Washington, D.C.
Barbara Osborn, M.D. | Sibley Hospital Campus, Washington, D.C.
David S. Saffan, M.D. | Fairfax, VA
Eric Widra, M.D. | K Street and Sibley Hospital Campus, Washington, D.C.
To determine the region’s “Top Doctors,” Northern Virginia Magazine compiles a list based on peer nominations and physician-led panels. A research team vets each nomination to ensure the physician is in good standing with the Virginia Department of Health Professionals.
“My heartfelt appreciation goes out to our patients, physician peers, and the community for this recognition. We feel fortunate to have earned your continued support. We’re humbled to have such a long and successful history of helping patients of this community build their families,” says Dr. Widra, SGF’s Medical Director, who sees patients in SGF’s K Street and Sibley Hospital Campus, Washington, D.C. locations.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by my physician peers and to be named among so many distinguished physicians,” said Dr. Browne of SGF’s Fair Oaks, VA, location.
Providing personalized care has always been at the heart of SGF, which is why 96 percent of SGF patients would recommend SGF to a family member or friend.
To learn more or schedule an appointment with an SGF physician, please contact our New Patient Center at 888-761-1967 or fill out this brief form.
