Steven A. Elg, PhD in Chattanooga: Reproductive Endocrinologist and Fertility Specialist
Steven A. Elg, PhD, is a reproductive endocrinologist and fertility specialist serving Chattanooga and Southeast Tennessee, focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of infertility, hormone-related disorders, and assisted reproductive technologies including IVF, intrauterine insemination, and egg freezing.
What This Practice Actually Is
A reproductive endocrinology practice differs from general obstetrics and gynecology in scope and training. While an OB/GYN handles routine prenatal care, labor, and general gynecological health, a reproductive endocrinologist specializes in infertility diagnosis, treatment of conditions affecting fertility (such as polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis), and advanced reproductive procedures. Elg holds a PhD, which distinguishes him in a field where many reproductive specialists hold only an MD or DO, and indicates training in research as well as clinical practice. This practice serves couples and individuals across Chattanooga and surrounding areas who are trying to conceive or managing reproductive health issues that fall outside routine gynecological care.
Services and Scope
The practice offers fertility evaluation and diagnosis, hormone testing and monitoring, ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF) including fresh and frozen embryo transfer, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), and egg and embryo freezing for fertility preservation. It also addresses polycystic ovary syndrome, irregular menstrual cycles, recurrent pregnancy loss, and male factor infertility evaluation in partnership with a male infertility specialist.
Cost varies considerably depending on the service. Diagnostic evaluation and routine hormone management cost significantly less than IVF, which is among the most expensive fertility treatments. Single IVF cycles in Tennessee typically range from $12,000 to $16,000 before medication costs (which add $3,000 to $5,000 per cycle). Many insurance plans do not cover infertility treatment, though some cover diagnostic services or specific medications; verify coverage before scheduling. The practice accepts most major insurance carriers; confirm your plan's fertility benefits directly with the office.
How This Practice Compares Locally
Chattanooga has limited reproductive endocrinology capacity within the city itself. Elg's practice is one of the primary options for fertility and reproductive endocrinology specialization in the area; most other fertility services require travel to Nashville or Atlanta. Couples and individuals in Chattanooga typically choose between Elg's practice, traveling to Vanderbilt Reproductive Endocrinology in Nashville (40 miles, roughly 50 minutes), or pursuing care through larger fertility centers in Atlanta (120 miles, roughly 2 hours). Vanderbilt is part of a large academic medical center with on-site embryology and andrology labs, which some patients prefer for highly complex cases; Elg's practice offers more direct access and shorter appointment wait times for initial consultation. For routine infertility workup and IUI, either option serves equally well. For IVF with advanced genetic testing or complex male factor issues, academic centers like Vanderbilt may offer more sub-specialization under one roof, though Elg maintains partnerships with reproductive urologists for male infertility referrals.
Who This Practice Suits and Who It Does Not
This practice is appropriate for couples or individuals trying to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse (or six months if the female partner is 35 or older), those with known medical conditions affecting fertility, and patients seeking egg or sperm freezing for personal or medical reasons. It suits patients who value continuity of care and shorter drive times within Chattanooga. It is not appropriate for routine gynecological care, contraception management, or sexual health issues unrelated to fertility; these belong with a general OB/GYN. Patients should expect that the practice will emphasize evidence-based treatment and likely discuss realistic success rates and realistic timelines, which may differ from some online fertility communities.
The First Visit
The initial consultation typically includes a detailed history of menstrual cycles, prior pregnancies, and past medical or surgical history. Males are usually asked about prior infections, trauma, medications, and lifestyle factors affecting sperm production. The female partner usually undergoes a pelvic ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve (egg quantity) and uterine anatomy. Blood tests measure baseline hormone levels (FSH, LH, estradiol, prolactin, thyroid function). The male partner may have semen analysis performed if not done recently. A follow-up visit reviews these results, discusses diagnosis, and outlines a treatment plan specific to the couple's situation. The practice typically schedules the initial visit 1 to 3 weeks out; IVF or complex cases may require additional consultations before cycle start.
Hours, Parking, and Logistics
The practice operates Monday through Friday; specific hours should be confirmed by phone. Appointments are scheduled and do not accept walk-ins. The office is located in Chattanooga proper (specific address and parking availability should be confirmed with the office). Patients undergoing IVF will need to attend the clinic multiple times during a single cycle (typically 4 to 8 visits over 2 to 3 weeks), so consider proximity when evaluating feasibility.
Steven A. Elg's practice fills a significant gap in regional infertility care, allowing Chattanooga residents to access reproductive endocrinology without routine travel to Nashville or Atlanta, making it a necessary resource for anyone in the area facing diagnosis or treatment of infertility.
