Essential Guide: How To Prepare For Your First Fertility Clinic Appointment

Your first visit to a fertility clinic is an important step in your path to starting a family. To help you prepare, here are some key things to bring, questions to ask, and what to expect during your appointment.

What to Bring:

Medical Records (if applicable): Bring your updated medical records, including any test results like hormone levels, semen analysis, or laparoscopy reports. This information helps your fertility specialist plan your next steps more effectively.
List of Questions: It’s common to have many questions before your appointment. Write them down so you can ask your doctor. We’ve included some suggestions below, but make sure to add any personal questions you have.
Notebook: The first visit can feel overwhelming with all the new information. Bringing a notebook will help you jot down important details and reminders.
A Companion (optional): If you’d like, bring someone you trust, such as a partner, friend, or family member. They can offer emotional support and help you understand the next steps in your fertility journey. If you’re with a partner, it’s important for them to attend, as the doctor may need their medical history as well.

What to Expect:

During your first visit, the fertility specialist will review your medical history and learn about your fertility journey so far. They may ask about any previous pregnancies, miscarriages, or treatments you’ve tried with your GP or OB/GYN. You may also undergo tests like blood work, ultrasounds, and semen analysis (if applicable) to identify the cause of infertility.

Based on these tests and the information you provide, your specialist will suggest appropriate treatment options and discuss what to expect next.

Questions to Ask:

Here are some questions to ask your fertility specialist during the appointment:

What tests should I undergo to determine the cause of my infertility?
What treatment options do you recommend, and why?
What are the success rates of these treatments, and how are they calculated?
What is the cost of treatment, and what does it include?
What are the potential side effects and risks of this treatment?
What else can I do to improve my chances of getting pregnant?
How long will treatment take, and can I continue working during this time?
Is the treatment painful?
What happens after I begin treatment?
If my treatment doesn’t work, what are the next steps?
Is emotional support available at the clinic if I need help?

While the first visit to a fertility clinic can feel overwhelming, remember that your fertility specialist is there to guide you through each step. By asking questions and staying informed, you’ll feel more confident and prepared for the journey ahead.