Dr. Esther Velilla

More than 15 years of experience in Assisted Reproduction and reproductive genetics. Master's in Cell Biology, PhD in Genetics and Cell Biology from the UAB. Master's in Executive Education from ESADE. Senior Clinical Embriologist certified by the ESHRE and ASEBIR, specialized in Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (USA).

Professional Brief

Master’s in Cell Biology and PhD in Cell Biology and Genetics from the Autonomous University of Barcelona, with more than 15 years of experience in the fields of Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics.

Master’s in Executive Education (MBA) from the ESADE Business School.

My training in Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, courage, proactivity and curiosity have shaped my professional career, featuring three fundamental lines: (1) Applied Research (leading to development of new advances and success in reproductive treatments); (2) the technical oversight of the Assisted Reproduction laboratory (in vitro fertilization and andrology), Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) and the gametes bank (semen and eggs), focusing its management on the improvement of results and quality control; and (3) the creation of new Assisted Reproduction and Genetics centers at the international level, bringing assisted reproduction and reproductive genetics techniques to the population.

We live in a global world in which borders are only linguistic and cultural. Having a good economic position, together with improvements in existing transport networks, at affordable prices, have made people willing to undergo the medical treatments they require in other countries, whether because it is not legal in theirs, or because they lack the technology, or the right professionals, and even, in certain cases, in search of less expensive treatments. Barcelona is the European capital of assisted reproduction, due to the high level of its clinics and their professionals.

At Reproclinic we have the very best technology, professionals and medical centers, attracting a significant number of patients. The only thing that prevents or impacts choosing us as a destination country is the patient’s culture of origin, language, and preconceived ideas about Spain.

In light of this, Reproclinic has developed an International Department, which makes possible assisted reproduction treatments for people from all over the world, regardless of their countries of origin, thanks to the development of: (1) a secure digital environment for doctor-to-doctor and doctor-to-patient communications (2) a comprehensive professional training system (3) a network of professionals and centers for the preparation of biological samples (4) the highest quality and safety in laboratory processes, guaranteed and finally (5) the incorporation of new technologies that make possible remote treatments.

“My goal is to be able to help everyone make their dream of having a child come true, regardless of their origins, culture or geographic location. We can all be parents, and together we will achieve it.”

Interview

Why did you become an expert in fertility?

When the first child was born via in vitro Fertilization in Spain, Ana Victoria, I was 12 years old and I remember watching the news and thinking, “I want to do this!” Being able to help couples become parents is wonderful.

Why are you proud to work at Reproclinic?

Reproclinic has an outstanding team, as professionals and as people, dedicated to a single goal: offering the highest quality and best patient care. I’m proud to be able to rely on this team and these world-class facilities.

What is your attitude toward working with patients?

I really like to listen to them. I never judge. Each person or couple has a very unique situation, and must be respected. Based on this premise, I always try to offer the best option for them and their embryos, and this is quite a challenge, forming part of the magic of assisted reproduction.

Have you had patients who inspire you?

As I said, each couple is unique and, as such, you always take away something; a comment, a source of joy, or hope; a way of viewing life, or of dealing with a result…

How do you spend your free time?

I travel a lot, so when I’m at home I like to enjoy quality time with my family, go to the mountains, walk, play, go to the theater, listen to music and dance together…. I have two children, who are still small, but I’ve realized how fast they grow up!

How would you describe your personality?

I consider myself a positive person with an open mind. I always try to find solutions to problems, and be able to help. Sometimes they even tell me that everything seems very easy for me, and it’s not like that, but it’s an attitude. I am very restless and easily excited by things … sometimes too much!