Reviews and Photos
We could not be more thrilled thanks to Dr. Sahakian and his WONDERFUL staff!! Thanks to him we are expecting twines!! We had lost hope after a hard 2 years of trying, but thanks to Dr. Sahakian’s wonderful counseling and care we’ve been given the gift of being able to finally become parents. Thank you for all you have done for us.
Dr. Sproul was my fertility specialist. She’s been awesome and now I’m pregnant! She has great bedside manners, is knowledgeable and accessible. She responds promptly via email whenever I email her questions — even during weekends. I would have given the practice 5 stars but the wait time runs anywhere from 15 minutes to 1 hour (particularly during their renovation). At one point, the wait time got so ridiculously long I actually considered changing fertility clinic. But things got slightly better once the renovation was done. On a couple of occasions I had to see another female doctor at the clinic because Dr. Sproul was on vacation. My experience with this other doc was subpar — she always seemed to be in a hurry to get out the door and did not seemed interested in attending to the patient at hand. I would not have liked her as my doc and am glad to have had Dr. Sproul.
Tip: Avoid the parking lot inside the building — it charges an arm and a leg!
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I felt that I need to write a review of PFCLA and specifically about Dr. Sahakian.
At first I need to mention that after the 2nd visit the front desk staff didn’t even need my name to pull my chart. They knew me by my 1st name and my chart was taken to the nurses’ station very very fast.
Nurses were very informative of the procedures and of the schedule, they would make me feel very comfortable being there and most important I never felt that I was rushed out or pushed out. My blood test results were called in at times when indicated, whether or not the results were “good” or “bad”.
I need to agree and reiterate another very important point is that Dr. Sahakian was very straight forward and no-nonsense about your situation. He didn’t hold anything back because it might make you “feel” bad. I had some complications, and I am very grateful that he warned me ahead of time, educated me and got my awareness of the situation.
Another point which is very very very important, if you happen to have some problems, Dr. Sahakian is very accessible. He will answer his phone even when off hours and during office hours you will receive an answer to your question while waiting on the phone. (I am still waiting for a call from my “now” obgyn – and this is day 3!!!) So I had to write this review to admire Dr. Sahakian and his staff on their great “bedside manners” and attention to individual patients.
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Dr. Kari Sproul is a fantastic addition to the fertility center. She is so incredibly caring, informative, and genuine. She is a top notch doctor who truly has your best interests in mind and heart. She is there to work with you…not on you. The nurse staff are all very sweet, and I have never had trouble with bruising or pain when they draw blood.
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I went in to see Dr D a couple weeks ago and I got off the elevator and went to turn around and get back in as I thought I was on the wrong floor. They totally redid the front! It’s beautiful! Such an elegant waiting room, I wish I had taken a picture, there is big royal looking seating and light painting, beautiful curtains – lovely. I especially like the fancy cappuccino/tea/chai/latte maker. It’s completely relaxing to sit there. Nice work!
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Dr. DeUgarte is an amazing Dr. i only see her as my normal ob-gyn, but she is so caring and makes you feel so comfortable. i have been seeing her regularly for more than 2 years, and she has helped me to monitor my ovarian cysts which i am prone to. she’s able to do ultrasounds in the office as opposed to sending me to a radiologist as i had to do with my previous OB-GYN, which is very convenient and a lot less expensive. i have recommended her to a number of my friends who have all had wonderful experiences.
as a first time patient, it can take a while to get in there…sometimes up to 3 months. but it’s worth the wait. once you are in, you are in and taken care of! Dr. D and her staff are always available to answer any questions i have, and if i ever have an emergency and need to get in there quickly, they can usually get me in for an appt within 24 hours.
I can’t recommend enough!
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love that there is a place like yelp so that I can tell the world how amazing Dr. Catherine DeUgarte is!
To start, she has the most infectious personality, charming sense of humor and comforting bedside manner. She always makes me feel at ease and constantly amazes me by showing me how much a Dr. can actually care about her patients.
Aside from being top-notch at what she does, professionally, she has also gone the extra mile for me and helped me when I was in need.
Out of the goodness of her heart she met me at her office (kids in tow) at 9pm on a Wednesday night because I had forgotten to refill a prescription and needed my nightly dose of my medication.
When I called her on her cell phone (which she easily gives out to ensure that you are completely at ease) and explained what had happened she assured me that she had some extra samples in her fridge and would meet me in the parking garage to pass it off. That was completely above and beyond her call of duty
Overall, I highly recommend her and her practice!
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We love you Dr Sahakian and team. The BEST decision we have ever made. Thank you for your caring, excellence, and wonderful addition to our family. 5 stars is not enough.
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Dr. Deugarte is amazing. When my wife and I first came here, we were, understandably, very nervous about this whole process. I have to say, I can’t imagine being treated in a better way. In fact, because of the amazing way we felt here, we actually changed obstetricians and went on a hunt to find someone who would make us feel as safe, secure, and just a part of the family as she made us feel.
Look, let’s be honest here, “producing” a sperm sample isn’t ever going to be the most comfortable thing when you’re trying to have a baby. And injecting your wife with hormones, and then having eggs taken out, and fertilized, is also a somewhat uncomfortable process. When you’ve got all of these things going on, then there are two things that make the difference: 1) the doctor you see each week who holds your hand through the process, and 2) the staff you’ve got to deal with on a daily basis.
I can’t even begin to tell you how amazing these were. We never felt like we were “just a patient” with Dr. D. We felt like she was someone who would be our new best friend. She was friendly, loving, kind, generous with her time, and when we actually got knocked up (with twins!) even more generous with her sonogram machine. We saw our twins for the first time in her office, and saw them move for the first time there too. It was very sad for us to leave, and was a very emotional experience.
Also, Amber, one of the nurses there, is the most awesome person in the world. When Dr. D wasn’t holding our hand, she was, and her cheerful, bubbly personality left us walking out laughing, with a smile on our face.
Last, just to give you a sense of everything, we’re in our 18th week, and Dr. D called us just a few days ago to ask us how we were doing. I’m sure I’ve gushed a lot, but it’s not possible to over-gush with her. If you’re having fertility problems, and need a doctor, this is the place to go.
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Dr. Kari Sproul, the latest addition to this group,is a fantastic doctor. When she assisted with my fertility treatment, my husband and I knew we were in the care of a capable,knowledgeable,professional, ethical,and caring physician. She always gave us as much time as we needed, including answering calls over the weekend and late at night. She loves her work, and it’s evident in her demeanor and is reflected in her successes. This group is fortunate to have her. Her partners sound wonderful from hearsay and reading all of the filtered reviews.
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Dr. Catherine DeUgarte helped us become pregnant with twins after only one invitro fertilization procedure. At 37 years old, I had never been pregnant before and now have beautiful, healthy twin girls after my first and only pregnancy. My husband and I can’t even begin to thank her enough for her skill, professionalism and exceptional kindness to us throughout our visits.
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Dr. Sahakian was nothing short of miraculous. As a woman in her mid 40′s I was told my liklihood of getting pregnant was less than 3%. I had already gone through 4 rounds of IVF at another facility in NYC wihtout a successful pregnancy. When I met Dr. Sahakian, he sat with me for as long as I needed to talk through the decision to continue in my pursuit. He was kind, understanding and most of all, extremely confident that he would be successful. After my 6th attempt, I had all but given up. Dr. Sahakian pleaded with me to do one more round. I was reluctant but agreed anyway. And thank God for Dr. Sahakian becuase this was the lottery winning jackpot round. Had it not been for his encouragement–insistence, I would have given up my dream to become a mother. He nurtured me through the early stages of the pregnancy with careful and precise advice to make sure this would go to term. Since I gave birth to my perfect and amazing child, I have referred a number of patients to Dr. Sahakian–mostly high risk, such as myself. He has treated everyone I’ve sent to his office the same as me. And, it must be said that his staff was equally impressive with thier support, gentle understanding of how hard it is to deal with fertility issues and thier expertise in the process. From start to finish, this team of medical miracle workers is simply put, THE BEST. If you are seeking help in assisted pregnancy, RUN, don’t walk to see Dr. Sahakian and his team. You will not regret it–especially when you can finally hold that baby in your arms and realize what a gift you’ve been handed. As an interesting footnote, I brought my daughter in to meet the staff after she was born…they all stopped everything they were doing to meet her as if she were part of thier extended family–and she is. They even posed for a photo together, Dr. Sahakian in the middle, holding my baby and his staff all around her. If I could post the photo here, I would. As the saying goes, “A picture speaks 1000 words.” There was nothing but pure love captured in the image snapped that day–it wasn’t about taking money, it was about giving life. Enough said.
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6 1/2 yrs ago our twins arrived via a surrogate. Dr. Sahaiken handled everything. We love him. Never were we made to feel like we did not matter. He is rushed..what doctor who is trying to help hundreds of women is not rushed. But he gets the job done and isn’t that why you go there in the first place??
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I’ve been seeing Dr. Deugarte for my regular check ups for a while now. Besides amazing skills and knowledge, she has great bed-side manners and is truly caring and sweet. Every appointment has been a delight. She was never in a rush and spent time explaining everything in detail. I have referred a very dear friend of mine to her who’s had problems with infertility and so far, she’s extremely pleased. I highly recommend her.
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Not sure why my review isn’t showing up. But I am still going to Dr. DeUgarte because she is so reassuring and kind. My ob/gyn is Dr. Tabsh – he is great, but doesn’t hold your hand. So I still come back to get hugs from all the nurses and get my hand held by Dr. DeUgarte.
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Infertility is cruel! IVF is torture. I didn’t meet the love of my life until I was 41 years old. I have always adored babies and kids, but never really cared if I had my own. Until I got pregnant naturally at 42 and miscarried. I was devastated and realized that more than anything I wanted a child with my husband. Three years of IUI’s and IVF’s, I am finally pregnant.
I can not express how grateful I am to Dr. DeUgarte and her wonderful nurses. Through every disappointment, Dr. DeUgarte and all the nurses (but especially Alma!!) were kind and supportive. I never felt like a number.
If she was running late, it was because she was taking extra time with a patient. She always took time to make sure all my questions were answered. She always took extra time and incredible care of me.
Dr. DeUgarte was always accessible and incredibly sweet.
For those of you looking at this review – keep in mind, at age 43+, your chances of getting pregnant WITH IVF is between 3% -10%. (If you don’t believe the statistic – check out http://sart.org) I did not know this because I did not do the research. I figured even in my early or mid 40′s – if I did IVF, I would get pregnant. That is not the reality.
If you are thinking about having a baby – please RUN to Dr. DeUgarte!! If you haven’t met the right person, freeze your eggs!! It will save you so much money and heartache. And please if you are over 40, don’t waste your time with IUI’s. I wish I had listened to Dr. DeUgarte and started with the IVF – instead of wasting almost a year insisting that IUI will work – despite being shown the statistics.
I will appreciate this pregnancy and this baby everyday.
This is a very stressful process, you will need a doctor who WILL hold your hand and comfort you.
Her staff made sure my husband knew how to give me the shots and when we (of course!) forgot that evening…we called Dr. DeUgarte! She walked us through the shots.
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Dr. Kari Sproul is a awesome caring doctor. Her bedside manners are great. The way she took care of my daughter was great, I will forever be in her debt! Thank you so much!!!!!!!
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Dr Sahakian was recommended to us by our surrogate, who had been treated at PFCLA successfully on two occasions.
Clearly the success or failure of IVF treatment can often determine the feedback for any clinic or doctor. So perhaps our judgement is coloured by the fact that we are proud parents of a wonderful baby boy thanks to Dr Sahakian.
Dr Sahakian attended to us personally. For us this cut out a lot of administration and bureaucracy that is part and parcel of gestational surrogacy. Dr Sahakian always made time for us. If we needed a call with him for five minutes to obtain reassurance on a particular point, then we just had to schedule a call with 24 hours’ notice. His responses to our many questions by e-mail were incredibly prompt. This was so important to us, in what was naturally an unsettling time for us.
The schedule at PFCLA was very clear, and they managed our expectations well in terms of next steps … every step of the way. We were incredibly lucky to have been supported by Dr Sahakian and the team at PFCLA, who were far more pro-active than our previous (and in theory prestigious) clinic.
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I have enjoyed working with Dr. Sahakian through two surrogacies, and I can not say enough good things about him and his nursing staff. I always felt like I was in good hands and was treated with respect and kindness. Dr. Sahakian knew his stuff and was very trustworthy and knowledgeable. I would recommend him to any surrogate or intended parent.
Told me that I was a good candidate to achieve pregnancy with assisted reproductive methods, such as in vitro fertilization. Fortunately, he was right about it. I got pregnant through IVF. I am so grateful and appreciate the staff.
Dr. Sahakian was terrific. He was frank about his view of the egg donor and gestational surrogate. The staff is nice and helpful. He found the Urologist that helped us obtain a good sample for donation. Best of all, we delivered healthy twins on the first try! We have no hesitation in recommending him or using his clinic again ourselves.
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I have had a most memorable experience as a patient of Dr. Sahakian and his team. I had researched many IVF clinics before choosing Pacific Fertility Center. Due to my history of repeat ectopics it was very clear I had no choice but to undergo IVF. I had actually had consultations with other doctors who said they needed to have me undergo many tests prior to IVF which may require removal of my tubes. I am far from a wealthy person and as a cash patient, this was very overwhelming. I then contacted Pacific Fertility Center and had my phone consultation with Dr. Sahakian and during that call I had a gut feeling that he was the real deal. Dr. Sahakian listened to my particular case and was VERY confident and insistent that I did not need additional procedures prior to undergoing IVF as other doctors did. He insisted he would be able to bypass my tubes and wasn’t the slightest concerned about me having another ectopic. He stated he did not want to have me pay unnecessary fees for something he had done many times before with success. So, I underwent my very first IVF which resulted in a chemical pregnancy. I was very upset, devastated and hormonal. IVF was so new to me and I was just expecting it to be a success from the start. I was very crabby and sensitive with Dr. Sahakian and he was very understanding of that and was able to calm me down and reassure me that it was a GREAT SIGN because I did get pregnant. He once again very confidently said “Cheryl if anyone is going to get you pregnant it is going to be me”. With those words, I knew in my heart that I had to give it another shot. He said he was going to try a new cocktail on me that he felt would benefit my particular case. So, I told Dr. Sahakian I do trust you and want to try again but I need some additional time to save up for it. He was very generous and extended additional months to me as well as gave me some donated medicines to help me with the cost. So, six months later I emailed him and told him I am ready to try again and he put his protocol in order for me. This time around I was much more anxious and sensitive then the first time. Both Dr. Sahakian and his lovely nurses took great care of me and comforted me during my many meltdowns. All of the nurses are great but there is one that is heaven sent and her name is Alma. Alma was by my side when I was crying and actually began to cry with me she is so warm and comforting and believe me when you are undergoing IVF you need someone like that in your corner. I was just discharged this week because I am pregnant with TWINS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! all thanks to Dr. Sahakian!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and I also have to mention that Dr. DeUgarte is very sweet too as she did one of my ultrasounds on a day Dr. Sahakian was off. So, I just want to reassure those of you who are looking for a great staff to look NO FURTHER. I have read the negative reviews posted and I am in SHOCK because that was not my experience by far. I almost think people are making stories up. I am going to miss Dr. Sahakian and his staff but I know I will see them again this time with my bundles of joy in hands which I owe the WORLD to Dr. Sahakian for. One last thing, I have praised Dr. Sahakian many of times and he is so very humble and only believes he is doing his job. What he doesn’t realize is his skills are heaven sent.
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I cannot say enough about Dr. Deugarte. My husband and I found her after we lost our first baby girl due to a premature delivery. Not only were we struggling to conceive again, but we were still grieving and looking for answers. Dr. Deugarte spent large amounts of time combing through hospital records and test results to help prevent another tragic loss. She then held our hands every step of the way by offering personal attention that is extremely rare in medical facilities these days, especially fertility clinics. Our son was conceived through IVF and he is now 3 years old. Dr. Deugarte and her staff were kind and patient throughout the whole process and continued to carefully monitor me throughout the first 12 weeks of my pregnancy. Even after we were released to my OBGYN, she continued to call and check in. I have sent many women to her office, some have flown across the country just to see her. ALL of them have been astounded by the personal care and attention she has offered them. Other clinics treat their patients like part of an assembly line. The exact opposite is found at Pacific Fertility Center. I truly believe that Dr. Catherine Deugarte was an integral part of our emotional healing and without her we would not have our baby boy. We will never forget her. She is a rare and special physician.
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I have known Dr.Sahakian since 2009 when I found out the only way I can have a child is through IVF. The first time my husband and I went for the consultation, he explained all the procedure and told us that he will try his best to help us out. Which he did.. He gave us our son who is turning 2. Dr. Sahakian is great, understanding, wonderful, helpful, carring,… Dr. with a heart of GOLD. I am so glad that we went to Dr. Sahakian for our infertility. From the moment you walk into the front door you are greeded kindley and you feel welcomed. what can I say about the staff. They are extremely friendly and helpful. They always have a smile and a warm approach. On the phone, they help you out and do not give any attitude even if you called them numerous times in one day. I truely love them all. This is an indication that a great Dr. is backed by a great staff that can help each and everyone who is groing through infertility. The other physicians on board are also knowledgable and helpful and they do care for their patients. I have recommended and will recomend Dr. Sahakian and his facility to all my friends and to those who need help. I have never seen a carring and considerate physician that Dr. Sahakian.. He has done all that there is in his capability and knowledge to help us to get pregnant with my second child.
The comments that was given toward the staff is rediculous and not true at all. All the Staff members are pleasant and worm, carring and helpful and they always have a smile on their faces and greed you kindley. I should know, I have gone to this facility since 2009 (and still a patient of Dr. Sahakian) and never was treated poorley by any of the staff members. I even get hugs when I leave, specially before or after a procedure and they always wish my luck and give me positive feeling. And as to Kim, she is not rude nor incompetent. She has worked for Dr. Sahakian for many years and she has managed the office and staff for all these years. She is on top of everything and makes the daily operation of the facility to run smooth.
As to the comment regarding that “they do not care for anyone except your money” is a very harsh and negative comment that is also false. They truely take good care of you and they do see you as $ sign, instead they see you as a human being desperately seeking their help for trying to have children. Their prices are fair and they do give discounts. It is true that there might be other facilities that charge you less money, but whould they be carring and helpful? would they take good care of you? or give you advice that is for your own benifit? I don’t think so.
I will urge everyone to go for a consultation and you will see how wonderful and carring Dr. Sahakian and his staff are.
Finally, I can say with all my heart, that I am so greatful to Dr. Sahakian for all that he has done for us.
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Dr DeUgarte is a blessing in this medical world. Rarely do you find a doctor available to listen to your concerns and answer your questions. Infertility is a stressful situation for a couple to be in, and as a woman I had many question, concerns, and anxietites. Fortunately, Dr DeUgarte helped me find a solution.
She explained my options and helped me choose which fertility option i was most comfortable with, as I was on a budget and my husband is 13 years older than I. We both needed to get this train going!
She helped me get in “fertility shape.”. She addressed my stress levels, exercise routine and nutrition, and body weight. Hormones and ovulation because I was skipping cycles all over the place. I needed to make some serious lifestyle changes, and it took some time, but we finally got pregnant.
There were no excessive testing that we did. I didn’t feel she was trying to take advantage of my insurance or pad her pocket book. Her care was about the patient and our desire to have a baby.
When we got pregnant, I was scared I was going to lose it. One day I just didn’t
“feel pregnant.” She worked me into her schedule so I could calm my anxiety, and showed me the heartbeat was fluttering away perfectly.
I really appreciate a doctor who genuinely cares abou the patients. Fertility can be very stressful for a couple, especially a woman. There is a lot of pressure and feelings that something is wrong with you or you aren’t worthy, etc. Dr DeUgarte is at the top of her practice and will cater to her patients needs. She respects your decisions and can offer the best care there is.
From what I know, her office has an impeccable success rate with pregnancy. Yes, fertility can get expensive, but having a baby is priceless. I wouldn’t bat an eyelash to invest the time and money again. It is worth my whole life.
She also discussed delivery options with me. I really appreciated this because it was an honest opinion. She wasn’t doing the delivery, so it was nice to get an objective point of view rather than feeling manipulated by a doctor. It is just nice to have another educated opinion.
I highly recommend Catherine and her office. It is a well run office. Her nurses are very courteous and have returned my calls every time. They even double checked with me on occasion to make sure I had everything i needed. I never waited more than 15 minutes for an appointment and the staff has always been courteous when I visited. The office is clean and accommodating.
I have only great things to say about my experience at PFC and Dr DeUgarte. We will be trying for #2 in the New Year, so I will be returning soon and can’t wait to see everyone again.
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I don’t usually write reviews as I am a busy working mom, but it would be unfair not to share the amazing experience I had with Dr. Sahakian and his staff. He is a pioneer in the field of reproductive medicine and an extraordinary human being. I did a ton of research before venturing on my journey of having my baby daughter and asked everyone I could think of for advice. Dr. Sahakian was very honest with me and my husband about the odds of us having another baby at 41. I had my son when I was in my early 30′s and then went back to school and work and life got in the way. I yearned for a sibling for my son and hoped for the little girl I had always dreamed of. I really appreciated the way Dr. Sahakian broke it down for us and explained the process of IVF. He really took his time. We interviewed a couple of other doctors but I felt rushed and simply told what I wanted to hear rather than the honest truth. It took us a couple of tries however, Dr. Sahakian never made money an issue. He really wanted us to be happy and realize our dreams. He was available at ALL times of the DAY and NIGHT. That man always picks up his cell phone! He is a kind, compassionate and funny guy that made our experience a joyful one. IVF is a journey, with many ups and downs. I’m glad I had an amazing doctor by my side to pick me up when things got tough and encourage me to try again. He has more experience and training than 99% of the doctors in his field. If you want to have a baby and you are having difficulty..this is your guy. He has patients that come from all over the world and travel thousands of miles just to see him. Here are a few other sites that have boasted great reviews about Dr. Sahakian.
Good Luck to you!
http://www.vitals.com/do…
http://www.healthgrades….
Thank you doctor!
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Greetings,
I would like to extend “many many kudos” to Dr. Sahakian but I’d like to comment first about some of the sarcastic remarks that are posted on here. My husband and I experienced visits both at the LA office as well as Glendale. It’s eny driven people that get on Yelp and post negative pokes that are far from true! The person who posted a blog stating that the staff is rude and unhelpful and that Dr. Sahakian doesn’t care about his patients and is money hungry, needs to “get a life!” My opinion is someone is maliciously posting false statements on here, so that potential patients might be swayed into going elsewhere. I don’t believe anyone would have a negative comment to make about their personal experience as a patient or even as a potential patient. You just can’t find a bad thing to say about Dr. S or his staff. They are wonderful people and they treat you with respect! Once you have been to either office, you will know immediately that it’s all about the patient! Dr. Sahakian has his passion”perfected!” I can only imagine those who wish they did too! My husband and I have been to a number of different Doctors because of our complications,we feel fortunate to have been in his care. Dr. Sahakian said our situation was workable, when other Doctors couldn’t figure it out! As far as the forms that are mentioned in the other sarcastic blog at the Glendale office, we had forms to fill out also, routine information, nothing out of the ordinary. No one is forced to fill out anything! We all are there with different infertility issues, however all with the same mission to achieve. Unfortunately there are jealous people out there, who get their kicks trying to discredit someone’s well-earned and well deserved recognition and reputation by making something out of nothing!
We had the honor of meeting Dr. Sahakian and his staff last summer. We felt so fortunate after hearing so many nice things about him. Due to our dissatisfaction with another clinic that we had been established patients at, we decided to go elsewhere. Very interesting that around the same time we had been checking referrals on different doctors in the Southern CA area, we attended a baby shower in the Los Angeles area for some friends who were expecting triplets. I happen to be sitting across the same table from the fertility Doctor who handled our friend’s surrogates procedure. When I told him in conversation that we had been referred to Dr. Sahakian, even he agreed that I was in “good hands.” Through many referrals, we decided to contact Dr. Sahakian’s office, Glendale location, to take the next step. The receptionist was receptive to our disposition of somewhat “eagerness” as we gone through the preliminary stuff and even some procedures with a different Doctor already.
During our appointment, Dr. Sahakian was sensitive to our needs and our lack of explanation for so many previous failed cycles. After reviewing the previous records that we brought along, he took time to explain some issues in a way in which we could understand. He was patient and very thorough. I appreciated the fact that we were not rushed during our session with him and he addressed every concern we had. This was important to us, since up till now, we were confused on many levels. After our visit he shared our situation certainly wasn’t t he only one like it and wasn’t too concerned of it becoming an obstacle for me to get pregnant. He knew where our hearts were at and encouraged us to give it another try. We felt comfortable at this point and agreed to move forward.
His office staff was very helpful in arranging the financial portion of our commitment, since we had already exhausted our insurance allotment/benefits for infertility at the prior office we went to. In providing us the next step of instructions, the receptionist and nurses were very cordial and helpful, always tried to work around my work schedule as I had already taken so much time off, and had specific accommodations in which I was asking for/days/times etc, and a couple times we had to change our appointment too. We live in Northern CA, so it was a long drive for us which we needed to take distance into consideration as well in scheduling our visits. They were always flexible. Never made us feel as though we were “putting anyone out” or that we were an annoying them.
The first embryo transfer procedure I was pregnant with twins! This was all that we could’ve ever asked for…our little angels now are ready to celebrate their 1st Birthday!
We thank God everyday for the path he led us to, that seemed like such a long drive each time we ventured to our next appointment! We thank God for Dr. Sahakian’s miraculous inpact he’s had in our lives and his loving staff who always made us feel at home.
Tonight after seeing my 13 month old boy/girl twins cuddled up asleep, I knew it was the right time, a few minutes to myself, where I am now able to finally sit down and reflect back on what my experience truely meant to me. I would like to express my sincere gratitude, appreciation and thanks to Dr. Sahakian, his nurses and his staff in this posting!
June 2009, five years ago, my story began. I was determined to fullful my life long dream of becoming a mom. Without too much emphasis on what I consider now ”old news”, I began my journey in Fresno CA at my OBGYN’s office, where after my initial consult regarding my desire to move forward in building my family, was rejected by the my OB’s business partner who deals with fertility issues. He said it would never happen for me and that I was wasting my time. I left the office very upset and equally discouraged, however not so enough to stop me from continuing onward….
At this point I had no knowledge of Dr. Sahakian, or any other fertility Doctor, nor did I know at that time, that this would end up being such a crucial issue. Of course as of now, many lessons I did learn. I then established myself as a patient at a Fertility Center here locally. I began as most do with a protocol, a long repetitive schedule of what to do in hopes of becoming pregnant…shots, pills, lab work, waiting, hoping, one cycle after another. Many components involved in my procedures, and after 2 years of pouring my heart and soul into this, all attempts failed. Needless to say, I was devastated! Those of you who have experienced this, know the feeling….it’s purely awful!
After a few months passed, I looked into adoption at a multitude of levels, locally, state wide and even internationally. I attended a few seminars here as well as out of town. The thoughts continued to reoccur in my mind, I wanted to have a child on my own. I wasn’t going to give up yet.
One evening, I got online and did some research, I came across Dr. Sahakian’s practice. I listened to an audio playback of a few families that shared their experience at PFCLA and thought I would give it a try. I called their office and asked that they send me some information so that I may have time to review it prior to my appointment. Soon after, I scheduled my appointment and was on my way. Uncertain of what outcome my appointment would prevail, I knew at this point I had nothing to lose.
As I entered his office right outside the elevator doors on the 7th floor, I was shocked, as I glanced to the right and saw an entire wall from the enterence around the corner and to the nurses station, approximately 35 feet long by about 12 feet high, filled with thousands of pictures of babies, children and families of which he has had the influence of making such possible. The entire wall was covered from floor to ceiling! There were other areas in the office with smaller collages, including the face of the front receptionist counter. As I sat in the waiting many albums of which patients had sent cards, letters of appreciation, kind words and love, to a Doctor and staff who made so many of their dreams come true, I only hoped I’d soon be one of them! All of this, a visual testimony of a Doctor whose practice is perfected, and one who’s passion for life has unraveled families for thousands!
When I finally met Dr. Sahakian, it seemed like I had known him my entire life! He was brutally honest, understanding, compassionate, caring and more importantly and very knowledgeable and successful Doctor. I was certain by the end of my visit, I was in the right hands. My time preparing was short, simple and to the point…..an office that uses a very natural approach, not a lot of hoopla, just simple, low key and relaxing…everyone made me feel at home. Aside from all the worries and stress one would naturally have in going down this avenue to begin with, they had a way of making me feel comfortable and more importantly, Dr. Sahakian and his nurses on more than one occasion told me “not to worry.” Dr. Sahakian is a funny guy although a man who believes in a no-nonsense approach to infertilty with his patients. He’s very caring and understanding!
Throughout my pregnancy, Dr. Sahakian and his staff were always available by phone or email. They were very informative and always took time to explain things when times became a bit overwhelming…and for myself, I feel like I was on the phone with them more often than not. They staff was always very helpful.
As of last Friday, my twins were 13 months old. I’m having the “time of my life” with them! I have continued to reach out and have kept in touch with Dr. Sahakian and his staff. I actually have an upcoming visit to them scheduled. This will be my little one’s first visit to LA and first time meeting the SPECIAL Doctor who made their lives possible!
From our HEARTS to yours, Thank You Dr. Sahakian, we love you!
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I am completely baffled by the earlier negative reviews about Pacific Fertility Center. I do agree 110%, however, with Laura M. I have seen Dr. Sahakian twice for IVF and got pregnant both times on the first try! He is hands down the BEST and I consider him my miracle worker. Nicole and Norma at the front desk are welcoming, the entire nursing staff is kind, informative and reassuring and Dr. Sahakian is beyond attentive, knowledgeable and encouraging.
I first went in for a consultation with Dr. Sahakian after having tried to get pregnant for 5 years. The previous Fertility Center not only had me on a ridiculously dangerous amount of hormones, but they then told me that I wasn’t a candidate for IVF and that I needed to stop trying. I was heartbroken. I wasn’t ready to give up and after my friend (who had gotten pregnant by Dr. Sahakian) encouraged me to at least meet with him, I went in. He met with my husband and me for at least an hour and answered all of our questions, addressed our concerns and reviewed my medical history. He then examined me and said that I was a perfect candidate for IVF. We began right away. I never had any trouble being seen or having a question answered on the phone. He and his staff made themselves available 24 hours a day/7 days a week. And the good news……..we got pregnant the first try!
After our daughter, we wanted to try again. We went back to Dr. Sahakian and once again, with the same supportive experience, we got pregnant right away!
I have recommended Dr. Sahakian to many of my friends who have had a hard time having a baby and will continue to recommend him until the day he stops practicing.
He’s a no BS kind of Doctor. If you want to go to a doctor who will just waste your time, tell you what you want to hear and pussy foot around the truth, then go somewhere else. Dr. Sahakian is honest, forthcoming and all about getting you pregnant and having the baby you’ve always wanted to hold in your arms.
I thank Dr. Sahakian (in my head) over and over again for helping us fulfill our dream of our family when other doctors tried to take that dream away.
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First I must say that Dr. Sahakian and the entire staff at PFCLA are the greatest. They are very friendly and compassionate, and show genuine concern for us as individuals. Even Dr. Deugarte and the anesthesiologist (sorry don’t remember his name) who we had little to no contact with, would say hi or even just smile as they walked by in the waiting room.
We first went to Dr. S. in 2009. Our regular doctor told us that due to my husbands cancer treatment as a child, his sperm count was so low, we would not be able to conceive a child. We went to the first consultation with practically no hope of ever having our own biological child, but left that day without a doubt in our mind that it wouldn’t happen. Dr. S basically said, it only takes one sperm to make a baby. After one round of IVF, a few months later we were pregnant with our first daughter who is now 20 months old.
Now we have just finished our last appointment with Dr. S. with our second pregnancy, we are currently 10 weeks. This experience was just as great. Start out with our first consultation. My husband brought up that their informational sheets mentioned gender determination as an option with IVF. My husband wanted to see about trying for a boy and how it worked. Dr. S was very upfront about how the procedure worked and shocked me when he said, although doing this would make me more money, I don’t recommend it because it compromises the embryo, lessening the chances of IVF working.
Unfortunately the first round of IVF didn’t work this time. The nurse who called and gave us the news was very kind and compassionate about it. It was on a Saturday, and she said the doctor would call to discuss options with us. Again I was suprised when he called the next day (Sunday), I didn’t expect a call until at least Monday. We initially thought we were done trying for at least a year because of finances. But Dr. S told us that a frozen round was a lot cheaper and told us a quote over the phone. Pleasantly suprised again when we got the first bill. It was actually almost $1000 more then he told us, but they had discounted it so that it was exactly what he quoted us.
Overall the whole experience, considering how stressfull infertility can be, was wonderful. Everyone is friendly. Knowing I was from out of town, they were very helpful in minimizing how often I had to drive to them. Even setting up shipment of my medication through the pharmacy. They were even very friendly and playful with my daughter when we were going for baby number 2. They all are very excited about my pregnancy and told me to keep them posted. The entire staff feel like true friends. If we decide to have another child, we will definately be back.
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Dr. Sahakian and the Staff of Pacific Fertility Center helped me and my husband give birth to our 2 yr. old son. We had been trying to have a baby for 11 yrs, and went to another fertility center but was unsuccessful. From the first appointment until the last, Dr. Sahakian was honest and encouraging to us. Our family is blessed to have had this experience with Dr. Sahakian! God Bless!
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