What to Expect for Your First Fertility Appointment

No matter where you are on your fertility journey, taking steps to see a fertility specialist or reproductive endocrinologist (REI) can come with a lot of thoughts and emotions - from excitement, to nervousness, to straight-up fear. So, whether you’ve been trying to conceive at-home for months, years, or are heading into your 6th fertility appointment, we created a handy guide to help you navigate these initial appointments and go in more prepared.

What to expect for your first fertility appointment.

The first fertility consult will involve a lot of paperwork for both partners. It will also give you the opportunity to ask any questions you have about testing, treatment options, clinic information, etc. It’s important to come prepared with your medical history, insurance information, plus have your questions mapped out ahead of time so you don’t forget.

Here are some reminders for your fertility consult:
✔ Ask questions
✔ Bring medical information (ID, history, insurance, etc.)
✔ Get organized (pen, paper, all medical information, questions)
✔ Get informed about fertility vocabulary so the appointment doesn't feel so overwhelming

During this appointment you're likely to establish a general plan that involves some basic fertility testing to give you a better understanding about your overall fertility health. This may include blood tests, physical exams, ultrasound, hysterosalpingogram (HSG), hysteroscopy, and a semen analysis. The first consult is really important to see if it feels like a good fit for both you and the clinic to work together. You're not obligated to ever stay with a clinic or a specific doctor. If something doesn't click, it's OK to ask for a second opinion.

Here are some general questions that will likely be asked during a fertility consultation:

• How long you’ve been trying to conceive and if you’ve tried any form of treatment to date

• Your medical history (and if you have a partner, their medical history too)

• Your sexual history including if you’ve ever had any type of infections/diseases

• Your insurance information

• How soon you’re looking to start testing and a treatment

Now, let’s get to the questions. First, note that there are no silly questions. I recommend writing down everything ahead of time because these appointments can feel like a lot! Aside from being nervous, a lot of information and next steps can be discussed, so it can hard to remember everything.

Questions to ask the fertility specialist:

• What testing do you recommend? Can you explain them to me?

• How long will it likely take to get a full fertility workup done and a diagnosis?

• Is there a waitlist to start treatment? If so, how long will it take to start treatment?

• Are there certain lifestyle changes you recommend optimizing our chances of getting pregnant?

• What types of treatments and options (add-ons) does your clinic offer?

• How many fertility doctors are on your team, and will I be seeing all or one throughout my time here?

• What are your thoughts on alternative medicine?

• How much do your treatments cost?

• Do you take insurance?

• Do you offer financial options for treatments, will an IVF coordinator walk me though the costs?

• What are your success rates?

• What are our next steps?

• What is the time commitment?

• Who is the best person to contact if I have any questions and are they available after hours/weekends?

Some important tips for navigating fertility consultations and appointments.

1. Bring someone with you to appointments: appointments are overwhelming and it's hard to remember every single thing that's been said. A support person can be there for you emotionally and even take notes for you too. It really helps you be more present.

2. Advocate for your health: ask all the questions, say no if something doesn't feel right, ask for a second opinion if needed, trust your gut, do what feels right for you! Read more about the importance of being your own advocate here.

3. Prioritize you: you’re investing a lot of time and money into fertility treatments, make sure you feel confident in your care team and your questions are being answered.

4. Find support: infertility can feel so lonely but there is an estimated 186 million individuals worldwide who've been diagnosed with this disease. There are support groups, professionals, and maybe even close friends and family that you can talk to. Some clinics will offer coaching and/or counseling with a mental health professional, if these services are available, use them!

Want to learn more about fertility treatments? We’ve got you covered! The IVF Warrior has resources for your entire journey, from the stages of IVF, IVF vs. ICSI, IVF testing, the embryo transfer process, egg retrieval, embryology, and so much more.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider or qualified medical professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog.