Wanting Answers and Taking the First Step: RBA Patient Story
Claire Mason and her husband were married in November 2017 and knew they wanted to start a family right away. After a year of trying to conceive, followed by another year of stepping back for their mental health, they reached a realization. What they needed was not more waiting, but answers and a plan.
Their first visit with Dr. Slayden at Reproductive Biology Associates in late 2019 marked the beginning of that next chapter.
Beginning Care at Reproductive Biology Associates
From the start, Claire felt supported by her care team at RBA. While the journey ahead was not clearly defined, she knew she was in a place where her concerns would be heard and her goals taken seriously.
Over time, Claire and her husband explored multiple treatment options. Eventually, with guidance from their care team, they moved forward with IVF.
Finding a Path Forward Through Treatment
Claire describes their experience simply. They tried nearly everything except IUI. Each step was approached thoughtfully, with clear communication and shared decision making.
Dr. Slayden remained a constant throughout the process and also performed their embryo transfer in August 2021. That transfer led to a healthy pregnancy and the birth of their son in April 2022.
The Moment Claire Knew She Was Truly Supported
While the outcome was life changing, one of the most meaningful moments for Claire came during an ultrasound appointment.
Before starting care at RBA, Claire had been diagnosed with vaginismus and completed pelvic floor physical therapy. Entering fertility treatment with that history required patience and trust. Early on, she often requested abdominal ultrasounds instead of vaginal ones, and her requests were always met with understanding.
One month, Claire felt ready to try a vaginal ultrasound. When she told the sonographer, the response was genuine joy. The sonographer stepped out to give her time, talked her through each step, and moved entirely at Claire’s pace. At the end, she told Claire that she had made her day.
That moment stayed with her. It was when Claire realized she was not just another patient. RBA was invested in her journey and success.
Navigating Fear With Compassion and Patience
Claire also entered treatment with a fear of needles, something she admits felt embarrassing at times. But she never felt rushed, judged, or burdensome.
At the Lawrenceville location, familiar faces made difficult days easier. Claire shared that she spoke with Lizzy often and that her positivity and care made every visit more meaningful. Feeling comfortable with the people around her was essential, and RBA created that environment.
Welcoming Jude and Looking Toward the Future
Today, Claire and her husband are parents to Jude, who is now three and a half. He loves letters, numbers, learning new things, and enthusiastically teaching his parents whatever he learns next.
They also have two embryos safely stored and confidence that when they are ready to grow their family again, they are in good hands. That reassurance has brought peace and comfort to their mental health.
Advice for Those Just Starting Their Journey
Claire encourages anyone beginning fertility treatment to advocate for themselves and trust their body. She believes patients and providers are on the same team and that sharing fears, boundaries, and hopes helps guide better decisions.
Why Claire Would Recommend RBA
Claire would absolutely refer a loved one to RBA.
“It is clear how invested RBA is in your success,” she shared. “They are there for you every step of the way and ensure you are comfortable and cared for in abundance.”