Erika New, MD

Biography

A doctor offering compassion to patients struggling with infertility

Dr. Erika New knows infertility is such a personal and exhausting issue for patients, and she considers it a privilege to support them during their journey to conceive. She was drawn to the field of infertility because of the huge impact the condition has on each patient’s life.

“I am a listener, and I want my patients to be able to share their story and their journey with me from the moment I first meet them,” Dr. New says. “I want my patients to feel comfortable discussing their concerns and getting their questions answered.”

Dr. New, an OB/GYN in Reproductive Medicine and Endocrinology at VCU Health, notes infertility is unfortunately a very common condition. But she points out there are also many treatments that can help patients conceive, including in vitro fertilization and medications to stimulate ovulation.

“I hope to reduce the stigma around infertility and to increase access to care for anyone struggling with conceiving,” Dr. New says.

Much remains unknown about human reproduction and why some patients have unexplained infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss.

“These areas challenge me and inspire me to continue looking for answers,” she says.

That curiosity is why she’s the co-author of dozens of research articles in her field.

Dr. New also sees patients who want to freeze their eggs to preserve their ability to have children in the future. Among the aspects of her job that Dr. New particularly enjoys is helping same-sex couples who want to become parents and helping transgender patients who want to preserve their fertility before undertaking gender affirming hormone therapy.

Dr. New earned her medical degree at VCU before her residency and a clinical fellowship at the University of South Florida in Tampa.

Dr. New is a faculty member with the VCU School of Medicine Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. She teaches students and treats patients in the community that launched her medical career.

Advice to patients: “Patients often stop treatment due to the emotional/physical toll it takes on them. Mental health is incredibly important, and I encourage patients to prioritize their own wellness. For some, that means having an activity or hobby to give your mind a break from infertility and treatment, which can be incredibly helpful in making the journey more meaningful and less stressful. There are even IVF coaches who can help. The journey can be tough, but we are here for you every step of the way.”