Your first fertility consultation is the essential first step toward realizing your dream of growing your family. You’ll encounter many new faces, undergo some tests, get a lot of information, and feel a mix of excitement and overwhelm. Here, we help you get a handle on what to expect from your first fertility consultation so you aren’t entirely overwhelmed.
IVF 101: The Fertility Consultation
Each infertility case is different. Your unique diagnosis and family dynamics mean your IVF process is your own. No other patient goes through the exact journey you’re about to set out on. With that in mind, there are specific aspects of your journey that you share with others. The initial meeting with your doctor and fertility team is a common experience involving medical history and testing, among other things. Here is everything you need to know about that first fertility consultation.
At the outset, you will meet your doctor and members of the care team. Your doctor discusses your medical history and that of your partner. Your family history includes any prior fertility issues or treatment, evaluations, known genetic conditions, or chronic health issues, including autoimmune diseases. Your doctor conducts a physical exam, assessing your overall and reproductive health. You and your partner describe your goals and expectations for growing your family.
According to what your doctor uncovers, they likely recommend more exact fertility testing. These tests include:
- Blood tests that evaluate hormone levels and ovarian reserve.
- Semen analysis for the male partner measures sperm count, motility (how fast they move), and morphology (the shape of the sperm).
- Ultrasound takes a more thorough look at your reproductive organs (ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes), ensuring the health of your reproductive system.
- Additional tests depend on the initial findings. Your doctor may require you to undergo more invasive testing, such as a hysterosalpingogram that assesses the fallopian tubes and uterus for blockages, a hysteroscopy that assesses your uterine health, or similar testing.
Once your doctor completes the tests, it’s time for you to hear your treatment options. IVF offers great odds for success, depending on your diagnosis. Based on your medical history and the findings from your fertility tests your doctor develops a treatment plan. Together, you, your doctor, and your partner determine your best path to parenthood.
Your doctor and care team go over next steps as your first fertility consultation comes to a close. At this point, you will schedule your next appointments, and you’ll have the opportunity for questions.
Armed with knowledge from your first fertility consultation, you move forward and prepare for further testing, medications, lifestyle changes, numerous appointments, and what life is like during an IVF cycle. Whether situational or induced by hormonal medications, you and your partner should expect a rollercoaster of emotions along your fertility journey. Be particular about who you let in as an emotional support person.
Make sure you share your plans with supportive and caring family and friends. If you think you need professional guidance, please let your fertility team know. They’ll refer you to a counselor familiar with infertility and IVF. Emotional support is crucial for your well-being.
What You Can Do to Prepare for Your First Fertility Consultation
When you arrive at your first fertility consultation, come prepared. Gather information you believe pertinent. Such as:
- Written medical history of both you and your partner.
- Prior pregnancies and the outcome.
- All previous surgeries
- Medications, both prescription and OTC
- Any allergies you may have.
Compile the information with your partner and involve them from the beginning. They should plan on attending the first fertility consultation with you. Their input and support is essential to your success.
Compose a list of any questions you anticipate. Be sure to ask questions about the process, risks, and costs related to your treatment, IVF, or otherwise. Your first fertility consultation includes going over insurance coverage and financing options, so come prepared with your information.
A Supportive Fertility Team
Your first fertility consultation is the initial step on the journey of a lifetime. This is not a sprint, but a life-changing marathon. There may be twists and turns along the way and prepare yourselves for a few hurdles. Crossing the finish line is worth every bump in the road.
Partner with a compassionate, supportive team, and your journey will be much easier. The team at LA IVF understands your goal of having a child and we are there every step of the way. Please contact LA IVF today and let’s schedule your first fertility consultation.
