Providing infertility care.

In recent years nurse practitioners have expanded their repertoire of ob/gyn skills to include the provision of infertility care. To minimize the stresses involved in an infertility investigation, couples benefit from a care provider who can educate them about the factors, testing, and treatments involved in infertility. They also need a provider who can support them emotionally through a work-up that touches upon the sensitive aspects of their sexuality, partner relationship, and self-esteem. Nurse practitioners have demonstrated an aptitude in providing competent medical care and health education in the context of a therapeutic relationship. Utilization of the physician/nurse practitioners collaborative team approach offers one successful model for integrating nurse practitioners into the practice of infertility.