Supporting Observant Jewish Couples on the Path to Parenthood
For Orthodox and other observant Jewish couples, the journey through infertility can be especially complex, emotionally, culturally, and spiritually. The Biblical commandment “be fruitful and multiply” (Genesis 1:28) is a deeply held value across Jewish denominations and carries particular weight in Orthodox communities. Within these close-knit circles, marriage and parenthood are not only personal milestones but also communal expectations. When conception doesn’t come easily, couples may experience not only grief and frustration but also a profound sense of isolation.
Adding to this emotional burden are the unique religious requirements that can complicate access to fertility care. Not all fertility clinics are familiar with or equipped to meet the halachic (Jewish legal) guidelines and laws of taharat ha-mishpacha (family purity) that observant couples must follow.
We are proud to offer fertility services tailored to the needs of the Jewish community and are sensitive to both the clinical and halachic aspects of care.
Halacha and Fertility: Navigating Family Purity Laws
One of the primary challenges in fertility care for observant couples centers around the laws of niddah—which require a woman to abstain from physical contact with her husband during menstruation and for seven “clean” days thereafter. Only after this period may she immerse in the mikvah (ritual bath) and resume marital relations.
For some women, ovulation may occur before mikvah immersion is permitted, creating a narrow or missed window for conception. In such cases, a consulting rabbi may grant halachic permission for earlier immersion or approve treatments such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) within halachic parameters.
Diagnostic and Treatment Options
We offer a full range of fertility diagnostics and treatments, all adapted to respect halachic guidelines:
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Ovulation monitoring: Hormonal testing and ultrasound assessments.
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Ovarian reserve testing: Bloodwork to evaluate egg supply.
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Uterine and tubal evaluation: Using saline ultrasound or hysterosalpingogram (HSG).
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Male fertility assessment: Because halacha prohibits ejaculation outside the body, we offer alternatives such as postcoital testing (examining cervical mucus after intercourse) or use of a special non-spermicidal collection condom (Milex), which can be halachically approved.
If ovulation induction or IUI does not result in pregnancy, in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be pursued. IVF is generally considered halachically acceptable with appropriate rabbinic supervision.
IVF and Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
We often recommend preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) for embryos created through IVF, especially when couples carry genetic conditions such as Tay-Sachs. PGT helps reduce the chance of miscarriage and minimizes the risks of multiple gestation by supporting single-embryo transfer—aligning with both medical and halachic concerns for maternal and fetal health.
To maintain halachic oversight, a rabbi or trained supervisor (mashgiach) can be present throughout the IVF process—from gamete collection to embryo transfer and cryopreservation.
Donor Eggs and Halachic Considerations
When IVF fails due to poor egg or embryo quality, couples may consider using a donor egg. However, halachic opinions vary on whether a Jewish or non-Jewish donor is preferable. In these cases, couples are encouraged to consult with their rabbi to determine the most appropriate course of action.
Our Commitment
We offer:
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Halachically sensitive ovulation testing, sperm collection, IUI, and IVF
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Preimplantation genetic diagnosis/screening (PGD/PGS)
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Supervised lab procedures, including embryo handling
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Egg donation guidance under rabbinic consultation
Trusted by the Community
Our facility has been reviewed by Bonei Olam, a leading organization supporting Jewish families facing infertility. Dr. Blotner has worked closely with rabbinic authorities and maintains a professional relationship with PUAH, an organization that provides halachic supervision and fertility education within the Jewish community.
We are honored to serve as a resource for observant Jewish couples and are committed to helping you build your family with care, respect, and integrity.
Resources for the Jewish Community
Yesh Tikvah, a monthly support group in Long Island
“Dr. Blotner and his staff are like family to me. I talk to Dr. Blotner every time I have an appointment. I am confident my care is in good hands and that important details won’t be lost because of poor communication. After driving eight hours to get to this office, I know he will be there at the end of my trip. A lot of clinics say they are with you every step of the way. But Dr. Blotner really lives that motto.”