Fertility treatment can be emotionally and financially exhausting, so it is vital to find a doctor that makes you feel at ease. Involve a trusted friend or family member in your consultation so they can act as another set of ears and advocate on your behalf.
1. What is your specific diagnosis?
If you are trying to conceive and experience multiple miscarriages, an evaluation by your OB/GYN can provide valuable insight. They may identify any underlying conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome or endometriosis that interfere with ovulation and cause infertility.
Reproductive endocrinologists are board-certified physicians who specialize in treating infertility. These doctors typically complete four years of medical school, four-year residency program in obstetrics and gynecology, as well as three-year reproductive endocrinology fellowship programs before becoming reproductive endocrinologists.
2. What’s your clinic’s success rate overall?
Success rates at fertility clinics can reveal much about their expertise; however, they can differ depending on patient age and diagnosis – it’s therefore essential that when comparing clinics you take this into consideration.
Patients looking into family building through surrogacy or donor services should seek out an REI with extensive experience in those processes, while same-sex couples seeking support should look for clinics which cater specifically to them.
3. What’s your clinic’s success rate for patients with my condition?
Many patients must undergo multiple cycles of IVF and other treatments before finally becoming pregnant, making this an enormous financial commitment. Therefore, it is crucial that you inquire as to their success rates for patients with your specific condition.
Although statistics can be helpful, it’s important to keep in mind that every patient’s experience and results differ. There are certain lifestyle adjustments which may increase your chances of conception.
4. What are the costs and additional/hidden costs?
Fertility treatment costs can be an enormous financial strain on patients. Some resort to refinancing their homes, borrowing money from family or using credit cards; or they put the procedures on a medical savings account as ways of covering them.
Health coverage varies across the United States. Some states enact insurer mandates, while others limit coverage by dollar amount or cycle length.
Medication costs can significantly add to IVF cycle costs; do your research and compare prices before purchasing medications.
5. How often will I be communicated with for updates?
Your fertility specialist will ask many detailed questions about both you and your partner’s medical and reproductive history, including details such as chronic illnesses, surgeries and medications taken as well as lifestyle factors that could potentially impede fertility, such as alcohol or drug consumption, smoking or stress levels.
Before your appointment, prepare a list of all the questions you wish to pose and bring it with you – this will ensure that you receive answers to all of them.
6. How many cycles of treatment are recommended before trying other options?
This question requires careful consideration, as its answer depends on several variables. Your consultant can give an accurate picture of what your chances are with each treatment regimen.
Prepare for your visit by creating a list of questions in advance. This will allow you to keep track of your thoughts and keep important info straight in your memory.
7. How many embryos are retrieved?
At your initial visit with your fertility doctor, it’s crucial to discuss the results of your fertility tests, diagnoses and potential treatment options. Don’t forget to pose all questions you think might be pertinent!
On average, doctors aim to retrieve 8-15 follicles and eggs during egg retrieval procedures, although this number can differ depending on your specific health status and ovarian reserve.
8. What’s your clinic’s success rate for fresh or frozen embryos?
Fertility treatments can be costly and it’s essential that you know exactly what you are investing in before beginning treatments. Determining the clinic’s success rate with fresh and frozen embryos will give you a clear idea of the expectations from their services.
Fertility treatment options range from medicated cycles and IVF, egg or sperm donation and surrogacy – and your fertility specialist should take the time to explain these choices as well as recommend which would best meet your unique circumstances.
9. What are the risks and side effects of your treatment?
Based on your treatment plan, it may require taking hormone medication or surgery. It’s also essential to ask about potential risks and side effects associated with these therapies.
Women undergoing IVF can suffer from Ovulation Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), caused by too many developing follicles and extra fluid build-up in the abdomen, leading to bloating, nausea and weight gain.
10. What are your expectations for me?
At your initial appointment, your doctor will assess both your medical and fertility history. They may ask personal questions like how often you and your partner have intercourse or whether any sexually transmitted disease has been present in either of you.
Be prepared to discuss your goals and desires for creating a family, too. Writing down these objectives ahead of time could prove helpful.
