Ender Yalcinkaya Kalyan is a senior embryologist from Turkey, whose dedication and innovative approach to fertility treatment have touched countless lives. With a strong foundation in molecular biology and genetics, Ender’s career is marked by a relentless pursuit of scientific excellence and a deep compassion for her patients. Her journey from a passionate high school student to a senior embryologist in renowned IVF centers is a testament to her commitment to advancing the field and improving patient care.
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During my high school years, I had always been fascinated by biological sciences
I was certain that my future would involve a career in this field. However, when the results of the university entrance exams were announced, I found myself at a crossroads, needing to choose between medicine and the then-prominent field of molecular biology and genetics.
Many might consider it a risk, but I decided to pursue molecular biology and genetics at Boğaziçi University, one of the top three universities in Turkey. This decision was driven by my passion for the subject and my desire to be at the forefront of scientific discovery and innovation.
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Becoming an embryologist comes with its challenges
Thanks to the education I received from my university and my chosen field, I was able to start my career as a junior embryologist at a renowned and busy IVF center immediately upon graduation.
Initially, I had limited knowledge about the IVF sector; it wasn’t a fully informed choice at the beginning. In a very short time, I noticed that becoming an embryologist comes with its challenges, including long working hours, unplanned vacations, and limited time with family. Despite these demands, the rewards of my profession, particularly the joy of helping people achieve their dream of having a family, make every sacrifice worthwhile.
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Shaping the future
Through extensive hands-on experience with numerous patients, I quickly advanced to the position of senior embryologist; and in my new role, I contributed to the setup of various other IVF centers and had the opportunity to train many new embryologists. This journey not only deepened my expertise but also allowed me to help shape the future of the field by mentoring the next generation of professionals.
To the trainees aspiring to become embryologists, I have always emphasized the importance of not only developing practical skills but also staying updated with theoretical knowledge and market developments because an embryologist who does not keep up with the latest information and technological advancements is no different from a laboratory technician.
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Embryologists should be fully integrated into the treatment plan
“I find it important to meet them [patients] in person instead of being just a voice on the other end of the phone during the treatment.”
Ender Yalcinkaya Kalyan – Senior Embryologist
In response to one of the major issues I’ve observed in the field, I advocate that embryologists should be fully integrated into the treatment plan because they also need to be informed about the patients’ histories and offer their insights to improve the chances of success. Decisions regarding embryology should be made within the laboratory rather than solely in the doctor’s office.
Consequently, I have always preferred to meet with patients at their initial consultation as their prospective embryologist, helping to create a comprehensive plan for their IVF journey. I find it important to meet them in person instead of being just a voice on the other end of the phone during the treatment.
Given that IVF should be a tailored treatment, it is essential that every aspect, including laboratory work, is personalized. From this standpoint, I dedicate a significant portion of my time to counseling IVF patients in addition to working as a locum embryologist.
I have also seen that many couples begin treatment quickly and unprepared due to the pressure of the system. Throughout this process, I have had numerous clients whose anxiety I have alleviated through counseling and who have achieved pregnancy without undergoing any treatment.
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Enigmatic “black boxes”
I have also observed that many couples facing infertility struggle with a lack of information from their embryologists. Often, embryology laboratories are treated as enigmatic “black boxes” with most of the treatment decisions being made by clinicians. To address this issue, I also launched my own YouTube channel to answer common questions that infertile patients have for embryologists. Through this channel, I provide evidence-based information about IVF and aim to clarify the role of the embryologist.
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For me, it is important to focus not only on the outcome but also on the overall experience of the journey. Therefore, I emphasize the importance of considering not only the physiological needs of patients but also their psychological needs.
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