Preparing for Your First Fertility Appointment

Preparing for your first fertility appointment can feel overwhelming, especially if you are uncertain about what to expect.
This article will guide you through the process, from gathering your health history to understanding the types of questions to ask, ensuring that you feel informed and confident during your visit.

Health history and medical records

Your fertility specialist will need a comprehensive understanding of your health history to assess your fertility status accurately. Be prepared to provide information on the following:

• Pregnancy history

  • Details about previous pregnancies, miscarriages, or any complications experienced can provide insights into potential fertility issues.

• Pre-existing medical conditions

  • Disclose any chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or thyroid disorders, that could affect fertility.

• Allergies and lifestyle

  • Mention any known allergies and lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, alcohol consumption, and smoking habits, that might impact your fertility.

• Family history

  • Discuss any family history of infertility, early menopause, or other genetic conditions.

• Current medications

  • List all medications and supplements you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, to help identify any that could interfere with fertility.

Insurance coverage

Before your appointment, contact your insurance provider to determine what aspects of fertility testing and treatment are covered. Enquire about:

• Coverage for diagnostic tests and fertility treatments (e.g. blood tests, ultrasounds, IUI & IVF)
• Costs associated with medication and consultations
• Any pre-authorisation requirements for certain tests or treatments

Partner support

If you have a partner, their support and involvement can be invaluable throughout the fertility journey. Having your partner present can provide emotional support and help you remember important information discussed during the consultation.

In addition, the fertility specialist may require information about your partner's health and family history to assess any potential factors affecting fertility. During the appointment, you can also encourage your partner to ask questions and express any concerns, as fertility is a shared journey.

Questions to ask

Going into your appointment with a list of questions can help you feel more prepared and ensure you do not forget to address any concerns. Consider asking:

1) Fertility evaluation

• What specific tests would you recommend to diagnose my infertility? What is the cost of these tests?
• How long will the diagnosis process take?
• What additional tests will I need before starting treatment?

2) Diagnosis and treatment

• Based on the test results, what are my treatment options?
• What is the national success rate for those treatments?
• What are the side effects and risks of these treatments?
• How does my age affect my treatment options and chances of success?
• How long should we try the initial treatment options before considering alternatives?
• What are the costs associated with each treatment option?

3) About the clinic

• How many patients do you see who are in my age group or have similar fertility problems?
• What are the live-birth success rates for my age group and with my treatment options?
• What are the office hours and is there an out-of-hours emergency line?

4) Additional considerations

• Is fertility counselling available, and if so, what does it entail?
• How can I contact my doctor if I have any questions along the way?
• What is the best way to receive my test results?

This list is not exhaustive, and you should feel free to add any additional questions that are specific to your situation. Your one-on-one time with the specialist is an important opportunity to get answers, so ensure you feel comfortable and informed about your fertility journey.

Other things to note

There are a few additional points to consider when preparing for your fertility appointment:

• Expect your vitals, such as blood pressure, weight and BMI, to be taken. 
• A pelvic exam and vaginal ultrasound are common procedures during an initial fertility assessment. Note that you have the right to decline these procedures.
• Wear comfortable clothing for any physical exams.
• Bring a notepad or a note-taking device to jot down important information.

Preparing for your first fertility appointment involves gathering essential health information, knowing what questions to ask, and understanding the procedures involved. By taking these steps, you can approach your appointment with confidence and clarity. Remember, your journey to parenthood is unique, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. 

Consult our fertility specialists at Thomson Fertility Centre for personalised advice and guidance on your path to parenthood.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a fertility specialist at Thomson Fertility Centre.

Book an appointment today.