Dr. Benjamin Lannon is double board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology/Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility.
He specializes in all aspects of infertility care.
In addition to his role at Boston IVF, he is also a Clinical Instructor at Harvard Medical School and Maine Medical Center, where he teaches the next generation of fertility experts and performs crucial research that focuses on the use of prediction models to improve medical decision-making in IVF.
His clinical interests include LGBTQ family building, women who have experienced a miscarriage, endocrine disorders affecting reproduction, and surgical treatment to optimize fertility. He has presented and published his research nationally.
Dr. Lannon grew up in Exeter, New Hampshire and received his undergraduate degree from Dartmouth College and his medical degree from Brown University. He also obtained a Master's degree in Evaluative Clinical Sciences from the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice.
He completed his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School - and his fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, and Boston IVF.
Why Did You Become a Fertility Expert?
In training I found the most satisfaction working with patients that had clear goals. For couples struggling with infertility their goal and my goal are always very clear. It is truly rewarding to help achieve that shared goal.
What About Boston IVF Makes You Proud?
I have been connected in some way with Boston IVF since I was in medical school. I remain impressed by the group’s commitment to the patient experience at all levels. From very technical aspects of how we handle embryos in the lab to the simple task of how phones are answered, Boston IVF is always seeking ways to improve the process for our patients.
What is Your Approach to Patients Care?
My primary goal is to work with people to come up with a realistic plan. One of the most challenging aspects of infertility is the large amount of uncertainty. It is hard to see an end point. I try to break the process down into tangible steps so that even if we don’t know what will happen at the end, at least we have a map to get there.
What Interests You About Research?
IVF can be a complex process, and I feel a responsibility to do what I can to make the experience easier for people. Usually, this means making somewhat small changes to protocols, but can make a big difference to patients. I worked with Dr. Michael Alper, the Medical Director at Boston IVF, on a study measuring hormones during a woman’s IVF cycle by sampling her saliva rather than blood, reducing the number of blood-draws she would have to undergo. It seems like a minor thing, but it's really not. Anything we can do to make the process more approachable and tolerable, while still delivering great results, is worthwhile.
Have Any Patients Truly Inspired You?
I think there is some inspiration to be found in most of our patients. Very few people are fully prepared to deal with the physical and emotional toll this process takes. I am always amazed by the resilience people muster to get through.
Where is the One Place You'd Like to Visit?
I have always wanted to go to New Zealand. Or Caribou, Maine. Both are about the same distance from my office.
How do You Spend Your Free Time?
I have been learning to salt water fly fish. I would not consider myself a fisherman as that would imply regularly catching fish. But the experience of being on the water is always very therapeutic.
How Would You Describe Your Personality?
I take my work very seriously but I like to use humor when possible. Infertility is emotionally exhausting on its own. If I can find a few moments to lighten the experience, I think it makes infertility just a tiny bit more tolerable. There are even studies which show that laughter improves outcomes.
What’s the Most Recent Book You’ve Read?
I recently read “Life is Good: The Book”. It is written by the two brothers that started the t-shirt company. They talk about how they used the power of optimism, altruism, and good spirit to build their company and inspire others. It is a great message and something we should all consider in our daily lives.
FERTILITYIQ Reviews
