So you’ve decided you’re ready to start a family— congratulations! Your first fertility appointment can feel like a daunting step. But fear not; by taking an active role in your fertility journey, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the process and increase your chances of achieving your ultimate goal of building a family. During your fertility journey, knowledge is power, and your fertility specialist is there to help you!

Questions To Ask At Your First Fertility Appointment

If you’ve scheduled your first fertility appointment, you may be overwhelmed and intimidated. By preparing a list of questions 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 at Carolinas Fertility Institute, we’ve put together six questions we recommend you ask at your first fertility appointment:

1. What Specific Tests Do You Recommend?

Prior to recommending a treatment plan, a fertility specialist must understand the root cause of your fertility issues. Be sure to leave your appointment with a clear list of diagnostic tests and procedures the specialist suggests for you and your partner. Because there are so many different types of fertility treatments, talking through your symptoms and previous medical history will help inform your doctor which specific tests they recommend for your unique case. 

2. What Types Of Treatments Does Your Clinic Offer?

While some fertility clinics offer a few treatments, others have more advanced technology and personnel and are able to offer a wide range of treatments to help patients conceive. Find out which treatments are available at the clinic you visit. Here at Carolinas Fertility Institute, we offer a wide range of treatments to help you fulfill your parenting dreams. Some of our treatments include

  • Ovulation induction
  • Artificial insemination
  • Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
  • In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
  • Fertility preservation

Our patients receive the highest standard of care and treatment at a lower cost than many other fertility centers. To learn more about our services during your first fertility appointment, visit our website.

3. How Do You Decide Which Treatment Is Right For Me?

Figure out how the fertility specialist will come to a decision regarding your treatment plan. Does your age and/or the cause of your infertility play a vital role? What about your lifestyle or personal preferences? In deciding which treatment is best for you, it is important to become familiar with the different treatment options. There are several key factors that come into play, each playing a crucial role in crafting a strategy tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.

4. 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. It is also important to remember to ask about prescription medication pricing, as they can add up quickly, too.

Our goal at CFI is to help make your fertility journey as stress-free as possible. We work hard to price our services fairly and take pride in being equal to or less costly than the average fees in our region.

5. Are There Certain Lifestyle Changes You Recommend?

Some fertility clinics 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.

6. What Are Our Next Steps?

After your appointment at the fertility clinic, if you find yourself feeling at ease and confident about seeking treatment there, don’t hesitate to inquire about the next crucial steps with your fertility specialist. Whether it involves getting a prescription, scheduling diagnostic tests, or exploring further options, your specialist will be there to guide you through the process.

7. 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.  Be sure to ask the clinic you visit to help you determine exactly what visits and procedures your insurance plan covers before your first fertility appointment.

Schedule An Appointment At Carolinas Fertility Institute

Your first fertility appointment is an opportunity to gather information, voice your concerns, and collaborate with your specialist to create a personalized fertility roadmap. Don’t hesitate to ask any additional questions that may come to mind during the consultation. To achieve your dream of becoming a parent, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule an initial consultation. We look forward to meeting you!