Dr. Dan Rychlik
Dr. Daniel F. Rychlik or Dr. Dan by his patients is a nationally recognized, double board-certified expert in Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility and Obstetrics & Gynecology, with over 25 years of experience helping individuals and couples achieve their dreams of parenthood. As the Medical Director of Empower Fertility in Santa Barbara, he brings an unparalleled blend of clinical excellence, academic distinction, and personal compassion to every patient he serves.
Born and raised in Chicago, Dr. Dan completed his B.S. in Biology at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, with minors in Psychology, Asian History, and Anthropology. He received his M.D. from the University of Illinois College of Medicine, followed by a residency in OB/GYN at St. Francis Hospital.
He completed his fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Medicine— the historic birthplace of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)—as well as additional postgraduate studies at the University of Chicago Graham School.
Dr. Dan, MD, FACOG
Education
Dr. Rychlik’s academic achievements showcase his dedication to mastering reproductive medicine:
Bachelor of Science in Biology: University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana
Doctorate of Medicine: University of Illinois, College of Medicine
Residency in Obstetrics & Gynecology: St. Francis Hospital, University of Illinois
Fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility: University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine
CREST Scholar Program: Duke University
Dr. Rychlik’s comprehensive education laid the foundation for his innovative approach to fertility care.
Dr. Rychlik has authored or co-authored over a dozen peer-reviewed publications in reproductive medicine and has presented nationally on PCOS, endometriosis, and fertility preservation.
Dr. Dan was selected as a CREST Scholar through Duke University and the National Institutes of Health, focusing on clinical research training in reproductive medicine. His training, research, and leadership in PCOS care give patients access to pioneering treatments based on both academic rigor and real-world results.
He has held academic appointments at prestigious institutions, including:
Assistant Professor, Touro University Medical School.
Assistant Professor, George Washington Medical School.
Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Arizona College of Medicine.
Assistant Professor, University of Illinois.
He has also served as:
Program Director, Marian Regional Medical Center OB/GYN Residency Program.
Medical Director, Reproductive Endocrinology at multiple institutions across Arizona, Virginia, and California Dr. Rychlik has authored or co-authored over a dozen peer-reviewed publications in reproductive medicine and has presented nationally on PCOS, endometriosis, and fertility preservation.
His many
honors include:
Dr. Rychlik has authored or co-authored over a dozen peer-reviewed publications in reproductive medicine and has presented nationally on PCOS, endometriosis, and fertility preservation.
His many honors include:
America’s Top OB/GYNs
Top Infertility Doctor by Health Tap, Arizona Foothills Magazine, and Phoenix Magazine
Golden Apple Teacher Award, University of Chicago
Award for Research Excellence, Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine
Beyond his clinical and academic work, Dr. Rychlik is a devoted husband to Dr. Melissa Drake, a practicing OB/GYN in Santa Barbara, and the father of four. He holds the Rank of Major in the Civil Air Patrol as a Search and Rescue Pilot. He also enjoys playing the guitar and making music that is often featured on Spotify.
Why Choose Dr. Dan for Your Fertility Care?
Choosing a fertility doctor is about more than just credentials—it’s about trust, experience, and results. Here’s why Empower Fertility and Dr. Rychlik stand out as the premier choice for patients in Santa Barbara, Montecito, and beyond.
What Sets
Dr. Rychlik Apart
Just ask his patients. “We practice medicine with the knowledge of my years of experience and rigorous data collection. In this way, I provide cutting-edge healthcare that achieves your ultimate goal— building your family—in a warm, caring environment.” — Dr. Dan
Real Stories, Real Results Patients consistently highlight Dr. Dan empathy and dedication: “Dr. Dan is an amazing doctor and very caring. He is empathetic and warm, and it always felt like he had our best interests in mind.”
University of Chicago Fellowship Training: Studied at the birthplace of PCOS, offering exceptional insight into this complex condition.
Over 25 Years of Experience: Trusted by thousands of patients across multiple states and fertility centers.
Double Board-Certified: Certified in both Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility and Obstetrics & Gynecology.
Proven Academic & Clinical Leader: Held faculty positions and directorships at top institutions including George Washington, University of Arizona, and Marian Regional Medical Center.
Published Researcher: Author of key publications and abstracts in reproductive endocrinology and fertility.
Full Spectrum Fertility Services: IVF, IUI, egg freezing, donor services, and fertility preservation—all under one roof.
Military-Grade Precision & Compassion: Civil Air Patrol Search & Rescue Pilot and community service leader.
Deep Community Roots: Alongside his wife Dr. Drake, provides holistic care to Santa Barbara and Montecito families.
Boutique-Style, High-Touch Practice: Combines personalized care with cutting-edge technology.
Best Fertility Success Rates: Dr. Dan has gathered the best individuals to create a fertility lab that is second to none in California.
Begin Your Journey with Confidence
Whether you're exploring fertility for the first time or seeking a second opinion, Dr. Dan offers the rare combination of science, heart, and experience that transforms fertility care from clinical to truly personal. If you have fertility issues, there is no better doctor to see in California.
Dr. Daniel F. Rychlik, MD, FACOG
Partner & Medical Director - Empower Fertility