At Reproductive Medicine Institute, every patient who visits us is just as unique and special as the team of doctors, nurses, embryologists, and staff caring for them.
With five offices across Chicagoland including Oak Brook where our IVF lab is based, we offer hopeful patients multiple convenient locations and compassionate people like Huma Ahmed, CSA, Manager of Surgical Services at Reproductive Medicine Institute. As a Certified Surgical Assistant with American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA), Huma’s primary responsibility is assisting surgeons in the OR, scheduling cases, providing pre-op, post-op instructions including seeing patients post-operatively as well.
What drove you to the field of reproductive medicine?
Ever since medical school, I’ve been drawn to women’s health, especially OBGYN and reproductive medicine. Each patient’s experience is so unique and special. It’s such a rewarding experience to be a part of their family-building journey with them.
What sets RMI apart from other clinics?
At RMI, we provide individualized care for each of our patients – every protocol is developed with the patient in mind. Here you’re not a number. We pride ourselves on building rapport with each patient, offering them support both physically and emotionally, and standing with them both during their joyous and difficult times. We’re kind of a goldilocks center, not too big and not too small.
What do you love about ART?
Getting or staying pregnant for many is hard and frustrating and it’s often challenging for patients to see the light at the end of the tunnel. To be able to help them take back some control and offer solutions is a joy. Services and treatments like extended embryo culture, PGT-A, and frozen embryo transfer are giving patients new hope.
Do you remember the first patient you treated?
I have been in this field for over 20 years now. Hard to remember my first patient but I have tons of good memories along with happy and tearful moments. Most days I go home thinking about specific patients and cases, our patients both past and present are always top of mind.
What advice would you give for someone hesitant about fertility care?
Allow your body to go at its own pace but don’t wait too long to seek help. If you’ve been trying without success and are over 35, come to talk to us. sooner than later. Fertility care allows patients to take charge of what is going on with their bodies and I would encourage them to lean into the support of not only their clinical team but their family and friends.
What is your favorite book or movie?
Well, I love the story behind Shawshank Redemption. Great movie and story about overcoming adversity. And, who doesn’t love Tim Robbins?
What was your first concert?
You might not believe this, but I have never been to a concert. True. But I would love to go to an Ed Shereen concert. My favorite song by him is “Perfect.”
What is your favorite food?
Sushi is my favorite food!! My typical sushi order would be shrimp tempura and spicy tuna roll. I’m hungry now…
In the great Chicago debate, are you rooting for the Cubs or the White Sox?
My whole family is a White Sox fan so by default, I’m one, though I love watching Cubs too.
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?
Family is important to me. Most of my free time is spent with them either by watching movies or playing games. If I’m not with them, my favorite hobby is crocheting. It helps me relax and it is fun to see what I can create.
If you could pick one place on your bucket list to travel, where would it be?
Hmmm… difficult to pick one but I would love to travel to Switzerland. It looks so peaceful! I’d like to see some of the beautiful scenery and landscapes. Until then, I’m fine with the views of Lake Michigan from Grant Park!