Wondering what to expect at your first infertility appointment? You are not alone! Many women wonder what will happen when they meet the reproductive endocrinologist (RE) for the first time.
Before the appointment: jot down your concerns
Many doctors agree that men and women go too long before seeking an accurate diagnosis. So, no matter what your fertility concerns, open communication is vital as you seek answers to help you have a baby.
You may have concerns about your own infertility risk factors, as well as possible tests, and modes of treatment. You may wonder if your male partner is the reason you are unable to get pregnant.
Before your appointment, write down any questions you have in a small notebook. Bring this notebook with you to your first appointment, and talk with your doctor about your concerns.
Here’s what to expect at first infertility appointment
Be sure to bring your partner or a close friend with you to the first appointment. Having this strong social support is important during this emotional time of discussing your fertility. It's also helpful to have someone with you as a "second set of ears." You'll get a lot of information during this appointment and may not be able to recall everything after your consultation.
How much time you'll spend at the center during your first visit will vary from practice to practice. Your appointment will consist of a lengthy conversation with the doctor and perhaps an introduction of other support staff, including the financial counselor.
This first appointment is primarily for information gathering. The RE will review your medical history and discuss the possibility of male-factor infertility with your male partner.
You may also be asked to give blood or have a pelvic exam. Other more invasive tests are usually done in later visits.
During the first infertility appointment and all subsequent visits, it’s important that the RE provides education and answers to your questions. Your doctor should follow a systematic process allowing early identification of potential fertility problems.
In addition, it’s important that the doctor care for you and your partner as individuals.
Discuss time and money
During the first visit, you and your partner should talk openly with the doctor about time and money. If you have a budget and set time limit for fertility treatments, let your doctor and the financial counselor know this up front.
Now knowing what to expect at first infertility appointment, you can become an informed consumer and have a frank conversation that leads to a sound doctor-patient relationship.
