Dr. Richard Schmidt, United States

After being disappointed by 3 different fertility clinics in 3 different states, we transferred our care from Stanford to Nova IVF to help us build our family. We became patients in 2017 and ultimately had success in 2021. Although that meant another 4 years of setbacks and disappointment, I would still rate NOVA IVF 5 stars because of the outstanding care they provided. We never had to leave a voicemail because the phone was always answered during business hours. Appointments and lab draws were convenient, results and next steps were communicated, instructions were clear, they helped resolve pharmacy issues, and they showed us genuine compassion and empathy. The infertility journey is stressful, but with NOVA, we felt we had a true partner to help us navigate the system and its challenges.

I absolutely loved the care at Nova. They supported me through egg and embryo freezing, embryo transfers, and now the birth of 3 wonderful children. The care is highly personalized; at Nova, you are not a number but a real person with an individualized protocol, relationships with the doctors and staff, and a phone line you can always call with questions, which I did often! They are highly professional, capable, caring, and genuinely good people. I actually live in San Francisco and traveled to Mountain View for care because it was so exceptional.

Nova IVF is an incredible clinic! My husband and I looked forward to every appointment. All the staff are very friendly and compassionate, making you feel comfortable and like family. This care team was with us and celebrated every step. The doctors are also the best! Dr. Schmidt and Dr. Shah were both involved in our care and took time during every appointment to understand our situation and answer all our questions. They created such a positive environment and never let us doubt that we could do this. With their help and personalized care plan, my husband and I are now pregnant after nearly 8 years of trying to build a family!

I heard the hospital has a high success rate, and I am glad to receive low-cost treatment at this hospital.

I had a wonderful experience at Nova Clinic. Dr. Richard Schmidt and his team were very professional and friendly. I underwent IVF in 2021 and had a daughter. Last year, we underwent IVF again, and I became pregnant with a baby boy. Our family thanks everyone at the clinic for making our dreams come true. The entire team is very friendly and stays in touch to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Our journey with Nova was extraordinary! We still remember our initial consultation with Dr. Schmidt, when we had many questions and anxieties about the road ahead. From that meeting, Dr. Schmidt’s reassuring presence put us completely at ease and convinced us we had found someone trustworthy. That crucial call ultimately gave us the confidence to take the next step. Like many people, we had doubts about the outcome, but we chose to trust fully in the carefully designed process and protocols of Dr. Schmidt and Dr. Shah. Their consistent support was essential. We were concerned when fewer eggs were retrieved than expected, but as people say, one good embryo is enough. We are very glad we took that chance and followed our instincts. In the end, we were richly rewarded! We are now five months pregnant and sincerely thank the Nova team for supporting us at every step of this unforgettable journey. Although we cannot thank only one person, every Nova team member guided us professionally and attentively. Special thanks to Nguyen, who became our first contact for countless questions. We frequently ‘bothered’ her, but she always responded patiently and clearly. Laura also played an important role with finances and kept us informed. Graduating from Nova felt like leaving a safe haven :( Choosing Nova was the best decision we ever made; they truly turned our dream into reality!

We recently ‘graduated’ successfully from Nova IVF, as they like to call it, and will welcome our baby this year. Dr. Schmidt and Dr. Shah are experts in this field, and I am glad I chose Nova for such a critical step in my fertility journey. The nursing, reception, and financial staff were consistently friendly and professional and always ready to help. They protect patient privacy in the clinic, and appointments were always brief, with almost no waiting. IVF can be a stressful journey for couples, and you need a highly qualified, empathetic team like Nova IVF to ease that stress.

We scheduled an 11 a.m. consultation with Dr. Charles. He appeared on Zoom at 11:30, we spoke briefly, and he looked very tired and uninterested in discussing our case. We then received a $395 bill and were told it would be sent to collections if we did not pay. I called Winy and explained what happened on Zoom and that the physician did not take time to review the IVF process with us. She rudely insisted that the charge was $395 and I had to pay. She hung up on me twice and transferred me to someone else the third time. They only want to extract money from people for the 10–15 minutes the physician spends with them. Winy should not speak aggressively to clients at the front desk; she needs training before working at this clinic and does not know how to communicate with clients. When I told the other person I would submit feedback, he did not seem to care.

A very personalized clinic and service. Whenever I had questions, they were always happy to answer. The staff and physicians are wonderful and responsive. I am very grateful to NOVA :)

What an incredible experience! It was a pleasure working with Dr. Schmidt and Dr. Shah. Both were very kind, knowledgeable, and committed to achieving the best possible outcome. Working with the entire Nova IVF team, including Nguyen Richa, Corina, and Loren, was unforgettable; everyone was extremely helpful. They made us feel wonderful, and I sincerely thank you for making our dream come true.

My husband and I are an AFAB trans/NB couple, so we always knew that if we wanted to start a family, we would have to get science involved. After months of failed IUIs (9 to be exact, as we are apparently gluttons for punishment) we finally faced the fact that we would have to pursue something more invasive, IVF. Unfortunately our clinic at the time was not equipped to perform Egg Retrievals on me, as my BMI is over the limit, but very fortunately, my doctor recommended me to Nova IVF. I was very nervous to change clinics and even more so to commit to seeing a clinic so far away (I live in Fairfield, for reference). I cannot even begin to describe how quickly all of that nervousness went away once I met the team. At my initial consult, Dr. Schmidt completely eased my fears of BMI limits and ensured I would be an excellent candidate for IVF. From there, we got Right to work! From my initial consult to the Egg retrieval to the positive HCG test was only 4 MONTHS! As anybody dealing with infertility knows, you learn to grieve before you even lose anything. I swear the doctors and team at Nova IVF are magic, because I certainly did not expect the swiftness of success that we experienced. Everyone at Nova IVF has your best interest at heart. As an LGBTQ+ couple, it's always nerve wrecking dealing with medical stuff, but this team is so inclusive. They respected our pronouns and chosen names, paid extra attention to the intricacies of LGBTQ+ family building and just generally made us feel so welcome and supported! Their knowledge is unmatched and truly top-notch. They have everything catered down perfectly to your unique situation and keep a close eye on things to make sure everything from Egg retrieval to embryo development is progressing perfectly with minimal issues or symptoms. The team is SO SWEET. They're thoughtful and understanding, something that certainly should not be taken for granted in this type of medical practice. Dr. Shah and Dr. Schmidt were always providing words of encouragment while ensuring I had all the facts each time I visited. The team likewise always offered kind words and everyone is very knowledgeable and ready to answer any questions I had~ It has been so amazing and refreshing working with the Nova IVF team. They treat you like one of their own and really give each patient their undivided attention and respect. We really feel like one of the family at this point. I simply cannot recommend this team enough; especially if you are a Queer individual or dealing with being turned away by other clinics for BMI reasons, I would absolutely recommend looking no further. This is the place where your family dreams will come true. Thank you so much, Nova Team. Thank you for standing by me and my husband and for making our dreams of a family finally a reality. ❤️

We are so grateful to Nova! I had previously visited another clinic where the doctor was arrogant, cold, and consistently negative. Dr. Schmidt and his team were the complete opposite—I was treated with respect and warmth at every step. IVF is inherently uncertain and emotionally difficult, but working with Nova made me feel safe and cared for. We are deeply grateful that this experience ultimately gave us our wonderful son, but even if it had not, I would still feel confident in the treatment and care Dr. Schmidt and his team provided. I highly recommend Nova to every family!

This may be the harshest review I have written. This clinic wants only your money and nothing else. I eventually conceived naturally after five years, and all I needed was progesterone—I became pregnant during my first month taking it. The doctors at this clinic had no interest in addressing the problem and told us our chance of conceiving naturally was less than 1%. Of course, if you are unwilling to address the underlying fertility issue and only want my money, forget it. They could not even be bothered to suggest any basic measures. I believe they are unethical and lazy. Save your money and find a doctor willing to address the underlying problem.

Words cannot express my love and gratitude for the entire NOVA staff! From the initial consultation through every appointment, the process was seamless. Dr. Schmidt and Dr. Shah are excellent physicians who truly know their work. My response improved greatly from the first cycle to the second; they adjusted my protocol perfectly! The entire team is well trained, experienced, and compassionate. The patient coordinators are wonderful and available to answer questions even after hours and on weekends. Although I am about to ‘graduate,’ I hope to return someday to continue growing my family.

I had an excellent experience at Nova IVF. All the doctors and nurses were warm, friendly, and knowledgeable. They were highly professional, and I strongly recommend them for any fertility concerns.

I am finally writing this overdue review while our newborn keeps us awake. After multiple unexplained transfer failures at another clinic, we came to Nova. Thanks to the efforts of Dr. Schmidt, Dr. Shah, and their team, we became parents after our first IVF embryo transfer there. Overall, compared with our previous experience, treatment at Nova gave us greater peace of mind and left us with more energy for daily life. Treatment: The egg-retrieval and embryo-culture protocols aligned more closely with my natural cycle, so recovery was easier. Compared with the generic protocol at our previous clinic, Nova retrieved fewer eggs but of higher quality, resulting in more embryos that passed genetic screening and qualified for transfer. Dr. Schmidt and Dr. Shah both played important roles. I primarily discussed procedures with Dr. Schmidt and testing and improvement of the uterine environment with Dr. Shah. Their expertise and persistence helped me overcome difficulties during transfer. I finally had a painless embryo transfer of normal duration. Given my history of failed transfers, the doctors offered several additional testing options. They objectively and candidly explained how effective and conclusive the existing research found these tests, allowing me to make an informed decision. My transfer protocol was adjusted based on the results, and fortunately, the transfer succeeded. Nurses and staff: Although I rotated among different nurses at each visit, it felt as though I was always speaking with the same person. They clearly cared about my condition and carefully reviewed my chart before every visit, regardless of its length. They knew my treatment progress, what needed attention based on the previous visit, and the requests I had made because of my personal schedule. This saved considerable time and energy because I did not need to repeat my questions and circumstances to different people. Communication by email and phone was very efficient. There was no elaborate app, but someone always answered the phone, understood my case, and usually responded within minutes. After-hours calls were forwarded to a nurse who returned them quickly. I appreciated their patience even with nonurgent questions because, as a patient, I did not always know whether an issue was truly urgent. Billing: Nova's lack of participation with most insurance plans was the main reason I had not considered it earlier. Fortunately, benefits such as Carrot were accepted, and my employer later offered this benefit. In retrospect, not using insurance may have been a blessing because I avoided prior authorizations, disputes over which tests or treatments were "necessary" for coverage, and differences between "insured" and "self-pay" bills. It suited me to decide the treatment plan and timing directly with my doctors. Nova's billing was transparent and itemized, identifying treatment milestones and whether charges covered multiple cycles. Their payment documents moved smoothly through Carrot's reimbursement process. I made a financial plan at the beginning based on their estimated treatment and costs, and there were no later surprises.

NOVA IVF provides proactive, personalized care that genuinely considers your medical history, physical condition, and emotional well-being. The journey was not easy. We experienced one failed transfer and one cycle canceled because of a thin endometrium. However, Dr. Schmidt, and Dr. Shah on the several occasions I saw her, were exceptional. They patiently explained every step and tailored treatment to my unique needs. The entire care team was excellent, especially Richa and Nguyen, whose kindness and consistency supported me through many blood draws, medication adjustments, and procedures. Trying to conceive involves many unknowns, but I felt they did everything possible to give me the best chance of success. My care included PRP therapy, medication adjustments, nutrition and acupuncture recommendations, and thoughtful changes throughout. Nothing felt generic or one-size-fits-all. Even when things did not go as planned, we never felt ignored or alone. I felt fully informed and supported, which was essential to me. Whatever the outcome, I know NOVA helped me receive the best possible care!

I am writing this review to help others make an informed decision when choosing a fertility clinic. Dr. Shah and Dr. Schmidt, whom I met only once, were warm and kind, and their staff were friendly, communicative, and cheerful. However, I encountered several problems as a patient. 1) The clinic can be disorganized. After my first visit, they sent me the wrong medication plan. This was a poor first impression, but I continued treatment. They made several similar errors during my six months at NOVA. 2) At first, they dismissed our concerns about the cause of our main problem, a thin endometrium. We believed it was related to my IUD, but they disregarded what my husband and I said and claimed the data did not support it. We later heard that they may have changed their view. 3) If you are a fairly typical IVF patient, NOVA may suit you. If you believe your situation is unusual or rare for any reason, I recommend looking elsewhere. NOVA had only two or three medications or protocols to help us. After just two cycles, they told us surrogacy was our best option. I had recently given birth and was under 35, so this was devastating. It felt as though they gave up on us after a few months. We later found a new doctor, after seeing several others, and tried additional alternative treatments and protocols that worked. NOVA was not current on the latest research. To date, none of our rigorously screened embryos tested at NOVA has implanted successfully, even with a surrogate. This is not NOVA's fault, but it is another example. After leaving NOVA, I became pregnant three times. These were not all miscarriages; some pregnancies had to be terminated because of my medical condition. None resulted from IVF transfer. Best wishes for a smooth journey and success.

Several years late, we are finally sharing this. When facing infertility, choosing the right fertility clinic and doctor is one of the hardest decisions. After months of distress and uncertainty, Dr. Meera Shah offered us leading expertise and genuine compassion. From our first contact, she patiently listened to our entire fertility journey, understood our feelings, and never minimized the process's complexity. She was exceptionally thorough, honest, and transparent, explaining every test result, treatment option, and what each step meant for our family. She gave us not only a plan but also hope grounded in science. Because of Dr. Shah's exceptional skill and selfless dedication, we finally received the news we had dreamed of: a positive pregnancy test and a strong heartbeat! Our daughter is now a healthy, lively little angel, all thanks to her unwavering support. If you are struggling on the path to parenthood, schedule a consultation with Dr. Shah. She is a highly skilled physician, and we will always be grateful for everything she did to make our dream come true. She is truly among the finest in her field.

The staff and physicians were generally kind, but I cannot recommend this clinic because the outcome was poor. Blood draws were the most painful of the three IVF clinics I have used. On transfer day, the physician struggled to position the embryo and repeatedly blamed the shape of my uterus, so I was not surprised the transfer failed. At another clinic, a more skilled physician diagnosed and treated the underlying issue and completed the transfer within minutes, resulting in pregnancy.

If I could give six stars, I would! The staff and doctors at Nova are amazing. From my first meeting with Dr. Schmidt, he showed genuine concern for my condition and noticed issues in my medical records that other doctors had previously missed. When I had an adverse reaction to local anesthesia during egg retrieval, my husband called the after-hours number as instructed in Nova’s materials. Dr. Schmidt quickly contacted both of us directly and gave us extensive guidance by phone. Overall, our experience at Nova was excellent, and we are now pregnant. Laura at the front desk is an angel! She founded Nova and showed us exceptional care every time we visited. I truly believe our journey would not have been as successful if my husband and I had gone elsewhere.

From the initial consultation until I graduated to obstetric care, Nova IVF provided the highest-quality care. Dr. Shah patiently explained the entire process, answered all my questions, and encouraged me throughout. Nurse Danielle also gave me attentive care at every visit. After the first egg retrieval, the clinic adjusted my treatment plan to improve the chances of success on the second attempt—and the results were excellent! My first embryo transfer was successful, I completed treatment, and my pregnancy is progressing well. I am very glad I chose Nova IVF to build my family, and I will return in the future!

I would give them ten stars if I could! Everyone at the clinic is professional and kind, and they made me feel very comfortable during my visits. I highly recommend Dr. Shah and Dr. Sokalska! They always treated me like family, making the process much less stressful. Even when I occasionally made unusual requests, they did their best to accommodate me and put me at ease. I feel very fortunate to have chosen Nova IVF, and I am now expecting my first baby!

We were trying for more than 20 years in other clinics several VIF treatments and they did not work, then we decided to go to Nova IVF where from the beginning we received the best care and attention from Dr. Schmidt and Dr. Shah they and their staff were always very attentive to us that's why we are very grateful for having made our wish to be parents 1 time and a second time more than 2 beautiful children we will always recommend Nova VIF as the best clinic

Working with the Nova team has been wonderful! We have been patients here since 2017 and have always had a great experience. I am very grateful to every member of the clinic staff. Thank you, Laura, Dr. Schmidt, and Dr. Shah!

I felt genuinely cared for throughout the entire process and am so glad I chose Nova IVF. Dr. Schmidt, Dr. Shah, and the entire team were not only knowledgeable and communicative but also took the time to personalize my treatment plan. They made an otherwise stressful experience much easier.

My experience with Dr. Sokalska and the entire NOVA team was very pleasant and welcoming. I sincerely appreciate the exceptional care they provided to my partner and me throughout treatment.

After a successful intrauterine insemination (IUI) at Nova IVF, I am happily holding my now two-month-old baby. I had been diagnosed with primary infertility, had never had any sign of pregnancy, and testing showed that my egg count was below average for my age, so I was very worried we might not be able to start a family. I am so glad we contacted Nova IVF. Everyone we met was caring and supportive. Dr. Shah was very helpful and closely monitored my condition to ensure treatment went smoothly. She even recommended adjusting my thyroid medication before I could see my OB-GYN, which I believe was important to achieving a successful pregnancy. If needed in the future, we will definitely return to Nova IVF for family planning.

I can’t believe I’m actually graduating from Nova! Before coming here, I had already gone through three failed IVF cycles at another clinic. From the moment I had my first online consultation with Dr. Sokalska, I immediately felt much more at ease. She is compassionate, patient, and extremely experienced. The approach to care here is completely different from my previous clinic, where the process was more cumbersome and textbook-like. At Nova, I never felt rushed during any of my appointments. Dr. Schmidt and Dr. Sokalska also provided me with thoughtful guidance and insights that I had never received before, and I am truly grateful for that. Nova lives up to its reputation. It may not have the luxurious facilities that other clinics do, but that doesn’t matter. What I needed was professional medical expertise and compassionate care. I really wish my IVF journey had started here from the very beginning.

Experiencing infertility was one of the hardest times of our lives, especially after multiple failed embryo transfers at several clinics left us with nothing. Just as we were about to give up, we found Nova by chance. Only eight months later, we are in our forties and expecting our first child! We especially want to thank Dr. Anna Sokalska, who made us feel valued, patiently answered our countless questions, and demonstrated her extensive expertise. In addition, the entire Nova team—from billing and scheduling staff to doctors and nurses—was extremely kind and made us feel at home. We highly recommend Dr. Anna Sokalska to anyone experiencing infertility.

I highly recommend Nova IVF. After experiencing recurrent miscarriages, we had our first virtual consultation with Dr. Schmidt. He was personable, knowledgeable, and very positive. We trusted him and all the other medical staff. We underwent one IVF cycle and welcomed our healthy baby boy in May this year.