Columbia University Fertility Center's Online Review Report Card

My experience at Columbia Fertility has been mixed. On one hand, I truly appreciate their quick and efficient scheduling, good facilities, and the presence of experienced doctors overseeing the clinic. Those are important positives. However, I feel it’s essential to share something that significantly affected my treatment experience — especially during IVF, where every millimeter truly matters. Several of my transvaginal ultrasounds were performed by individuals who seemed to be in training (which is normal in academic centers), and while I do not want to disrespect or diminish anyone’s learning process, the way the exams were conducted often felt: • rushed, • lacking gentleness and patient comfort, • and technically incomplete. In multiple scans, the follices were measured using only one diameter, instead of measuring two perpendicular axes and calculating the mean diameter, which is the standard recommended by ASRM/ESHRE guidelines. This can easily create a 2–4 mm measurement error, impacting crucial decisions such as: • the correct timing of the trigger shot, • risk of premature ovulation, • the maturity of the retrieved oocytes, • and the overall interpretation of the cycle response. With follicles, measuring only one side is not sufficient — the correct technique requires measuring vertical, horizontal, and then calculating the average. In fertility treatment, this precision is not optional; it’s vital. Additionally, some ultrasounds felt physically uncomfortable due to the lack of gentleness during the transvaginal exam, which added unnecessary stress to the experience.

I cannot express enough gratitude for Dr. Robles and the entire team at Columbia university fertility center. After five long years of struggling with infertility and feeling hopeless at another clinic, I finally found the support and expertise I needed here. The clinic itself is conveniently located, making it easy to find and access for appointments. Upon entering, I was immediately struck by how comfortable and welcoming the environment is. The interior is not only clean but also thoughtfully designed to create a calming atmosphere, which is essential when you're undergoing treatments like IVF. During my egg retrieval, I felt supported and cared for by the staff. The recovery area was cozy and well-equipped, allowing me to relax after the procedure. I truly appreciated the attention to detail in making sure patients feel at ease. From the very first consultation, Dr. Robles was compassionate, attentive, and incredibly knowledgeable. His positive attitude and encouragement made all the difference during such a challenging time. Thanks to Dr. Robles' meticulous care and dedication, I am now pregnant, which I once thought was impossible. If you are looking for a skilled and empathetic fertility specialist, I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Robles and Columbia fertility clinic. He truly changed my life! Thank you!!

Our fertility journey has been one of the most meaningful and transformative experiences of our lives. From the very beginning, we felt supported, informed, and truly cared for every step of the way. What could have been an overwhelming process became a path filled with hope, compassion, and incredible professionalism. The team guided us with patience and optimism, always taking the time to explain each step and reassure us when we needed it most. Their encouragement combined with the advanced care we received, made all the difference. Every appointment felt like a step forward, and every milestone reminded us that we were moving closer to our dream. Today, as we look back, we feel nothing but gratitude. Our journey wasn't just about achieving a pregnancy--it was about feeling seen, supported, and empowered throughout the process. We're deeply thankful for the kindness, expertise, and positivity that carried us through. For anyone beginning this path: there is hope, there is joy, and there are extraordinary people ready to help you along the way. Our experience was truly beautiful, and we couldn't be more grateful. Thank you Dr Eric Forman, Christine Markovich and Madeleine Wald for this wonderful experience and excellent care.

Our fertility journey has been one of the most meaningful and transformative experiences of our lives. From the very beginning, we felt supported, informed, and truly cared for every step of the way. What could have been an overwhelming process became a path filled with hope, compassion, and incredible professionalism. The team guided us with patience and optimism, always taking the time to explain each step and reassure us when we needed it most. Their encouragement combined with the advanced care we received, made all the difference. Every appointment felt like a step forward, and every milestone reminded us that we were moving closer to our dream. Today, as we look back, we feel nothing but gratitude. Our journey wasn’t just about achieving a pregnancy—it was about feeling seen, supported, and empowered throughout the process. We’re deeply thankful for the kindness, expertise, and positivity that carried us through. For anyone beginning this path: there is hope, there is joy, and there are extraordinary people ready to help you along the way. Our experience was truly beautiful, and we couldn’t be more grateful. Thank you Dr Eric Forman, Christine Markovich and Madeleine Wald for this wonderful experience and excellent care.

Being a patient of Dr. Karipcin was one of the safest most pleasurable experiences. She knew how to comfort you and hold your hand throughout the entire journey without having any feeling of giving up. Highly recommended great practice

I felt like I'm at a private small cozy local clinic, even though it's in New York City. Dr Forman and his staff always went that extra mile to help us become parents, In the easiest and most promising way. The atmosphere was always positive and optimistic. I felt very respected and cared for throughout our journey. CUFC is on top of the line with the most advanced sophisticated medical treatments. The place was always clean! Each staff member is nice. The instructions are articulate... We are looking forward to return when we are ready to conceive again.

The doctors and nurses as Columbia made this difficult experience as easy as possible. They were knowledgeable, kind, professional, and responsive throughout the process. Making monitoring appointments was easy and they always had plenty of morning availability in both white plains and NYC. We are so grateful for this team and how they have helped us. Thank you!

This fertility center is efficient (4 stars); however, patient care is non-existent (1 star). You definitely feel like you’re a patient on a fertility or infertility conveyor belt - you are a number on your doctor’s case load (in my case, Jenna Turocy). This institution is catered to patients with a more typical fertility journey. If you have any abnormalities or below average levels (e.g., amh, afc, etc.), I would avoid Columbia and go with a doctor/clinic that is willing and able to personalize your treatment.

I am very grateful I decided to check on my fertility at CUFC. I went for a consultation with Dr. Alex Robles after trying other places. Dr. Robles was the first one to actually tell me there was a plan to follow and guided me and my partner every step of the way. And we got a successful IUI. He was very compassionate and kind in explaining everything to us. Also, our Nurse Haley Roche and our Care Coordinator did a fantastic job. They always explained medications and lab results to us, and it was always easy to get an appointment when needed. And last but not least, all the Medical Assistants, Sonographers, and the chaperone team were fabulous :)

This is my second time seeing Dr. McConnell for infertility. The first time I got pregnant with twins on my very first IVF cycle after multiple failed IUI cycles. . This was my second fully medicated IVF cycle, and it was successful again! (No twins this time lol) I believe my success was due to the high understanding of my individual needs; with me having pcos and being over 40 years old. Dr. McConnell has a great team and it really shows. Nurse Katrina and Nurse Naleeta are amazing! They always kept me informed of every bloodwork result, and every sonogram. This time was a lot faster than the first time because I already had more than ten frozen embryos so I didn't have to take the medications to grow and collect my eggs. My transfer was set at 5 Columbus Circle. The Westchester location is still not full service, and I am not sure if that's even a plan anymore. I am pleased to inform the windows at Columbus Circle now have blinds! Thank goodness! The first time it was so awkward using the restroom with all the surrounding buildings having their windows overlooking the restroom. Dr. McConnell also did my embryo transfer. All the Doctors work as a team because I am not always seen by the same Doctor. Some people don't like it but I don't mind it at all because they are all so well informed, and they have a smooth flow. My favorite part of the entire process is still meeting the embryologist. I find it so amusing to be standing in the same room as the person who hand selected the sperm and injected the egg. They met my little baby before I did. I just wished they handed out pictures of the developing embryo in the dish. I was however, given the tube my embryo was frozen in as a souvenir which I loved! Going through this I think every woman thinks of the possibility of embryos being mixed up, but this clinic takes every precaution that this doesn't happen. The moment I walked in they kept checking my wristband and asking me to confirm my identity. They also had a scanner they used on my wristband barcode before the embryo transfer could proceed. I want to take a moment to highlight Dr Priyanka Ghosh. I met her in the Westchester location and she just lights up a room. I was in for some type of uterus test that involved injecting a liquid into my uterus that I can only describe as the injection from hell. This test was so painful and so awful I couldn't keep the tears from rolling down my face. Dr. Ghosh was so sweet and understanding. She stopped the entire thing until the pain subsided and told me we would do it at my pace, and that they also have other options. Her voice is so soothing. I felt very comforted. I was so at peace with her close to me. Who needs anesthesia with her around! I'm thankful she was there for me that day. If I could make any suggestions for the future, Columbia Fertility should partner with OB offices to have the successful pregnancies automatically transferred to them for women who want that option. I always have so much trouble finding OB's. Columbia please send me info on what exactly happens with embryos that are donated to science. This is my last pregnancy and I really don't want my embryos to go to waste, but my husband is on the fence because we don't have details on what embryos are used for if we chose not to discard.