Beyond Second Opinions: Making Choices about Fertility Treatment

Beyond Second Opinions is a comprehensive guide for people seeking treatment, exposing the risks, errors, and distortions surrounding fertility medicine. It provides up-to-date medical literature and discusses reproductive interventions, non-medical forces, and the persistent gulfs between medical professionals and health care consumers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 406 pages
Publication date: 23 September 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

Beyond Second Opinions is a comprehensive and informative guide for individuals seeking treatment in the field of fertility medicine. Authored by consumer health activist Judith Steinberg Turiel, who has firsthand experience with fertility treatments, the book aims to provide readers with a balanced perspective and accurate information about diagnoses and treatments.

The book delves into the risks, errors, and distortions surrounding fertility medicine, offering a critical examination of the industry. Turiel utilizes the most up-to-date medical literature to shed light on difficult decisions patients face, such as choosing between conventional and experimental interventions, and navigating the non-medical forces that shape their treatment choices and reproductive outcomes.

One of the key strengths of Beyond Second Opinions is its accessibility. The author writes in a clear and concise manner, making complex medical concepts accessible to a wide audience. The book is organized into easy-to-follow chapters, with each section providing a comprehensive overview of relevant topics. Additionally, the inclusion of illustrations and tables further enhances the reader's understanding of the subject matter.

Turiel's expertise in consumer health advocacy is evident throughout the book. She challenges the prevalent myths and misconceptions surrounding fertility treatments and provides readers with accurate information based on scientific evidence. Turiel exposes the unregulated expansion of the fertility industry, the lack of scientific experimentation, and recent scandals involving stolen embryos. She also highlights the persistent gulfs that exist between medical professionals and health care consumers, emphasizing the importance of patient education and empowerment.

Through a combination of first-hand accounts, compelling stories, a range of scientific information, and lively anecdotes, Turiel addresses the various aspects of infertility practices. She provides insights into the emotional journey of individuals seeking treatment, the financial implications, and the ethical considerations involved. Turiel also arms laypeople with valuable information that they might not learn from doctors, patient education brochures, or the media.

One of the standout features of Beyond Second Opinions is its discussion of reproductive interventions. The book provides a comprehensive overview of simple fertility pills to dazzling experimental options, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), surrogacy, and assisted reproduction technologies. Turiel explains the benefits and risks associated with each intervention, as well as the potential outcomes for patients. She also addresses the ethical considerations surrounding these practices and the need for informed consent.

In addition to its medical content, Beyond Second Opinions explores the non-medical forces that shape an individual's treatment choices and reproductive outcomes. Turiel discusses the economic and political factors that influence access to fertility treatments, the disparities in healthcare services, and the impact of insurance coverage on reproductive choices. She advocates for policies that promote reproductive justice and equity, ensuring that individuals have access to the care they need regardless of their socioeconomic status.

Overall, Beyond Second Opinions is an essential resource for anyone seeking information about fertility medicine. It provides a comprehensive and balanced perspective, challenging misconceptions and providing accurate information based on scientific evidence. Turiel's expertise in consumer health advocacy and her commitment to patient education make this book a valuable tool for individuals navigating the complex world of reproductive health. Whether you are a patient seeking treatment, a healthcare professional, or simply interested in learning more about fertility medicine, this book is a must-read.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520347403