Scheduling your first appointment at a fertility clinic can feel overwhelming and intimidating. By preparing a list of questions ahead of time to ask a fertility specialist, you’ll ensure you receive all the information you need to make informed decisions and make the most out of your visit. Here are six questions we recommend you ask at your initial fertility consultation:
1. What specific tests do you suggest for myself and my partner?
At your initial fertility consultation, you and your partner will be asked questions about your medical history. Your fertility specialist will ask about a variety of conditions that may have a bearing on fertility such as diabetes, sexually transmitted diseases, thyroid disease, or hormone imbalance.
Based on this conversation, your fertility specialist will recommend diagnostic tests and procedures to help identify the root cause of your fertility issues that may include special imaging, blood tests, hormone level evaluation, and other procedures. The results will help guide their recommended treatment plan for your specific needs.
2. What types of treatments does your clinic offer?
Not all fertility specialists are created equal. While some fertility clinics offer a few treatments, others have more advanced technology and are able to offer a wide range of treatments to help patients conceive.
Like many fertility clinics, Carolinas Fertility Institute offers ovulation induction, in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI). We also have a donor egg program, offer fertility preservation, and can perform robotic and minimally invasive surgery to treat many of the underlying conditions associated with infertility.
3. Are there certain lifestyle changes you recommend?
Fertility specialists are strong advocates of lifestyle modifications to help patients conceive. Find out if quitting smoking, eating a well-balanced diet, taking a vitamin, or regularly exercising may improve your situation.
These modifications may be recommended for a period of time prior to pursuing advanced fertility treatment or in conjunction with treatment like IVF or IUI.
4. How do you decide which treatment is right for me?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The best fertility specialist for you will not only recommend a personalized treatment plan but will also be transparent about why he or she is making those specific recommendations.
There are many factors beyond the results of your diagnostic tests that can determine the best treatment for you. Does your age play a vital role? What about your lifestyle or personal preferences? Or financial commitment?
5. How much do your treatments cost?
The cost of fertility treatments varies significantly between providers, clinics, and states. You should get a clear understanding of how much each treatment will actually cost so you can determine how a treatment plan may affect your budget.
Remember to ask about prescription medication pricing as they can add an additional two to five thousand dollars more to your bill. In addition, determine how your insurance applies to diagnostic tests and treatments.
To make advanced fertility treatment more accessible, Carolinas Fertility Institute offers flexible payment programs and finance options.
6. Do you take my insurance?
Most insurance plans will cover the new patient visit for the female, and may also cover diagnostic ultrasound procedures and intrauterine implantation procedures. During your fertility consultation, be sure to ask the clinic you visit to help you in determining exactly what visits and procedures your insurance plan covers so there aren’t any surprises when it comes to your out-of-pocket responsibility.
7. What are our next steps?
If you feel comfortable during your appointment and feel confident in seeking fertility treatment from the clinic you are at, ask the fertility specialist about the next steps.
He/she can provide you with a clear timeline of what to expect, as well as what is required of you along the way. Do you need to get a prescription filled? Discontinue the use of medication? Schedule a diagnostic test? Reduce your body mass index (BMI)? Don’t leave your fertility consultation without getting all of your questions answered and having a clear understanding of what to do next.
Schedule a Fertility Consultation at Carolinas Fertility Institute
Choosing to work with a fertility specialist should be viewed as a partnership. You may meet with more than one practice before finding the clinic and the physician that feels like the best fit.
The physicians at Carolinas Fertility Institute have decades of expertise when it comes to fertility treatments and will have your best interests at heart when making recommendations based on your individual circumstances. To achieve your dream of becoming a parent, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule an initial consultation by calling our Charlotte office at (844) 686-2233 or our office in the Triad at (336) 448-9100. We look forward to meeting you!