A fertility consultation is a big step in your fertility journey
To help you prepare for your first fertility consultation, we’ve outlined what you may expect, what items to consider bringing, and some questions to consider asking.
The basics
Plan for enough time
The first appointment can take some time because there is a lot to cover. This is an opportunity for you to meet with your fertility specialist and team, gather information, and ask questions.
When you check in
You may need to provide personal health information. If you have insurance, you’ll need to provide it at that time and pay a co-pay, if applicable.
Prepare to take notes
There are many details to keep track of. Use a notebook, binder, or digital tool to record details and other important information.
Your fertility ally
Is there someone in your life whom you trust to be by your side on your fertility journey? Whether in-person or virtually, having a friend, relative, or partner in this experience can help with navigating complicated emotions and assist with planning.
Download this checklist for a list of items to bring and some questions that you may be expected to answer
Fertility consultation checklistWhat to bring
Medical history
At your first appointment, you will be talking about your medical history. Consider preparing a folder with information about your medical history and previous fertility tests or treatments.
Family history
Your family medical history and genetic background may contribute to your fertility. Your fertility team may ask you to provide this information.
Insurance and coverage
If you have insurance, consider contacting your insurance provider before your initial consultation to help establish your fertility care coverage and prepare for any additional costs.
Download questions for your employer and
your insurance provider as a printable worksheet
Affording care worksheet Your care team
reproductive endocrinologists
Fertility care is a team effort. Data from 2018 show there are about 1700 reproductive endocrinologists in the US—so consider your options when selecting a physician.
Not actual healthcare professional
Your fertility specialist
Your fertility specialist, such as a reproductive endocrinologist, nurse practitioner (NP), or physician assistant (PA), is your key partner on your fertility journey. They will collaborate with other healthcare providers to help you receive appropriate attention and care. All of these individuals have advanced training specific to fertility. As you navigate your personal fertility journey, these professionals will work with you to provide clinical, educational, and emotional support.
Not actual healthcare professional
Nursing and clinical staff
A certified medical assistant (also known as a CMA) will likely be your primary point of contact on your fertility journey. They may perform or coordinate various scans, blood tests, physical exams, or other procedures. Additionally, nurses and clinical staff may help you with emotional counseling, scheduling follow-up appointments, or education about potential medications.
Along your fertility journey, you may work with a phlebotomist and an embryologist. A phlebotomist is a specialist who will help with drawing your blood and preparing it for testing. Embryologists are responsible for the testing and care of embryos from egg retrieval through transfer. Specifically, embryologists retrieve eggs, assist with in vitro fertilization, maintain clinical records, and run tests on eggs.
Not actual healthcare professional
Administrative contacts and financial coordinators
An administrative contact helps with planning and preparation. Administrative staff responsibilities may vary but they primarily help you schedule appointments, assist with payments and insurance coverage, and manage other logistical aspects of your fertility care.
Financial coordinators will walk you through your benefits and help you understand your insurance coverage.
