Wendy Vitek, MD

What drew you to reproductive endocrinology and Boston IVF, and how does it align with your vision for the kind of fertility care patients deserve?
I was always drawn to the science of reproduction, but what really attracted me to this career is how personal this work is. Helping people build their families or navigate what is next when that path is complicated, is incredibly meaningful. It is a field where you get to blend deep medical knowledge with true human connection.

I love that Boston IVF combines cutting-edge science with real compassion — that’s the kind of care patients deserve, and exactly why I’m here. What really stands out is how collaborative the environment is, whether it's within our own clinic or across the network. I’m especially excited to be part of growing our Syracuse site and launching a new REI fellowship here. 

What’s your favorite part of being a fertility specialist?
It is the relationships. There is something incredibly rewarding about meeting someone who feels overwhelmed or hopeless and helping them find their path to the pregnancy they’ve dreamed of. Sharing good news is always a joy, but I also deeply value being a steady, compassionate support when things don’t go as planned.

Can you share a moment — even from your first few weeks — that made you step back and feel proud to be part of this team?
I often care for individuals with complex fertility needs, and one case in particular stands out — a uniquely challenging situation that called for a thoughtful, team-based approach. From the moment this patient established care, our team at Boston IVF jumped in without hesitation. Even with the extra layers involved, everyone stayed fully committed. We don’t shy away from complexity. We work through it together to support our patients every step of the way.

What do you believe patients deserve from fertility care that you’re excited to help deliver at Boston IVF?
Patients deserve research-backed information that’s clearly explained so they can make the best decisions for themselves, along with a care plan and a team that truly supports them. At Boston IVF, I’m excited to help provide that kind of personalized, compassionate care rooted in science.

What’s your approach to patient care?
I really believe in meeting people where they are. Everyone’s story is different, and so are their goals. I try to create a space where patients feel heard and supported, and I make sure we talk through options in a clear, thoughtful way. My goal is for every patient to feel informed, confident in their instincts, and supported in making the decisions that are right for them.

How do you stay hopeful and motivated when helping patients through such deeply personal, and sometimes difficult, journeys?
For me, hope comes from staying present and walking alongside patients, even during the toughest moments. Their resilience is incredibly grounding and being part of a team that genuinely cares makes even the hardest days feel meaningful. Every small step forward is a reminder of why we do this work.

Who inspires you?
I have had amazing mentors who have shaped how I think and lead, but I also get a ton of inspiration from my patients and my trainees— they push me to stay sharp and open-minded.

Have any patients inspired you?
So many. I think about patients who have been through years of infertility, miscarriages or faced cancer, and they still show up with courage and hope. Their strength is what keeps me grounded and reminds me why this work matters.

What draws you to research?
I have always been curious asking “why” and “how can we do better?” and research lets us answer those questions. I focus a lot on how metabolism affects fertility, but I also love helping trainees bring their own research ideas to life. It is a way to keep learning and improving care.

In which ways do you see the field of reproductive endocrinology evolving, and how will you contribute — both individually and as part of this team?
Fertility care is becoming more personalized and data-driven, but it still needs a human touch. I’m excited to bring both by using research to guide care while never losing sight of the individual experiences and emotions involved. This is an emotional and physical journey for our patients, and we are here to support them through every part of it.

What are you most proud of in your career?
Starting an REI fellowship from scratch, and now doing it again, is something I’m really proud of. Training the next generation of fertility specialists is a big responsibility, and it’s something I take to heart as my legacy.  I have also been lucky to contribute to research and mentor some incredible people.  The greatest privilege of my career though has been supporting patients through not just one, but sometimes multiple pregnancies over the years.

What kind of outreach work do you do?
A lot of my outreach is focused on education whether it’s helping patients understand their options, giving talks about fertility preservation, or mentoring early-career doctors. I care deeply about making fertility care more accessible by increasing access to well-trained fertility specialists.

Do you have any special connection to the local community?
Yes! I serve on the faculty at Upstate Medical University, where I help train obstetrics and gynecology residents in reproductive endocrinology and infertility care. I also collaborate with local OB/GYN’s to support patients across the region and will be starting a new REI fellowship based out of Upstate and Boston IVF to expand access to specialized training.

How Do You Spend Your Free Time? 
Cheering on my kids at baseball and softball games, getting outside for tennis in the summer or paddle in the winter, and walking my dog Nimmo while catching up on a good podcast.

How Would You Describe Your Personality?
Curious, compassionate, and quietly confident. I’m not the loudest in the room, but I listen closely, ask thoughtful questions, and help others shine.  

What’s the Most Recent Book You’ve Read?
I just finished "The Good Life" which is based on the Harvard longevity study.  It really made me appreciate about how much connection and relationships shape our health and happiness

Where is the One Place You'd Like to Visit?
Somewhere along the Mediterranean coast where I can totally unplug through slow mornings, fresh meals, long walks, and a lifestyle that is all about good food, movement, and nature.

What Music Do You Enjoy Listening to?
90s hip hop is my go-to for workouts, Taylor Swift is perfect for a sing-along while driving, and Surfaces is my pick when I’m walking and need something uplifting

What Would Be Your "Desert Island" Food?
Caprese bruschetta - crusty bread piled with fresh tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of sea salt.