The most obvious of these sexual hormones are oestrogen and testosterone as these are formed by the ovaries and testicles respectively. There are several other hormones which help to regulate our sexual functions which are produced in other parts of the body like the pituitary gland (located at the base of the brain)
Reproductive Endocrinologists will often specialise in human fertility and most of their work will be focussed on helping those (though mainly women) who have issue with their fertility. These can be caused by all sorts, age, pre-existing conditions, low sperm counts or even hostile wombs but the Reproductive Endocrinologist will work hard to try and sort all of these out and get you or your partner pregnant.
On top of their medical training, reproductive endocrinologists will receive an additional four years in the area of human reproduction. This will involve time spent with gynaecologists, learning this form of medicine as well as obstetrics and the specifics there. It’s important that they gain a strong understanding of all aspects of reproduction so that they can later focus their attention onto the hormones.
If you’ve had issues with fertility in the past then it’s more than possible you’ve seen a reproductive endocrinologist without realising it. If it’s an issue you’re concerned with then why not ask to be referred to one by your GP? Chances are you’re not going to need one but it’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially when your ability to have kids is at stake!