A first fertility appointment is mostly a conversation about your health, cycles and how long you have been trying. Bringing period dates, previous reports and a list of medicines, and coming together as a couple where possible, helps the doctor plan the right next steps.
Why a little preparation helps
A first appointment is often shorter than people expect, and it is easy to forget things in the moment. A small amount of preparation means the doctor has the full picture, you avoid repeating tests you have already had, and you leave with clear next steps.
Good to know. You don't need to have everything. Bring what you have; the doctor can work with that.
What to bring
Your cycle history
- The first day of each period for the last three to six months, if you have it. A period-tracking app or a note on your phone is fine.
- How long your periods usually last, and whether they are heavy or painful.
Previous reports, for both partners
- Blood test results, such as hormone, thyroid or AMH tests.
- Ultrasound scan reports.
- Any semen analysis report.
- Reports of tubal tests, such as an HSG.
- Discharge summaries from any operations, and details of any earlier fertility treatment.
Keeping these in date order in one folder, or as scanned files, saves a lot of time.
Your health details
- A list of all medicines, including supplements and any herbal or traditional products.
- Past operations, infections and long-term conditions, such as thyroid disease or diabetes.
- Any previous pregnancies, including pregnancies that did not continue.
- Relevant family history, such as early menopause.
Come together if you can
Fertility involves both partners, so it helps if the male partner comes too. He can answer questions about his own health, and a semen analysis is often one of the first tests suggested. In India, men are sometimes reluctant to be tested. It is worth knowing that a semen analysis is simple and non-invasive, and that checking both partners early can save months.
If you are single or in a same-sex relationship, you can bring a friend or family member for support if you'd like to.
What usually happens
Most first appointments include:
- A detailed conversation. How long you have been trying, your cycles, sexual health, past pregnancies, medicines, lifestyle and family history, for both partners.
- A look at your reports. The doctor will go through what you bring.
- An examination, if needed. At an in-person visit this may include a pelvic examination or an ultrasound scan. You can always ask what an examination is for, and ask for a female chaperone.
- A plan. Usually a list of first tests for each partner, and when in the cycle to do them.
An online consultation follows the same conversation, but without an examination. Any tests are arranged separately at a laboratory or clinic. Find a quiet, private place, and have your reports ready as clear photos or PDFs. You can read about how Celova's online consultations work.
Questions you might ask
- What do you think might be going on, and what else could it be?
- Which tests do you suggest for each of us, and why?
- When in my cycle should each test be done?
- When will we discuss the results, and who will explain them?
- What would the next steps be, depending on the results?
- Is there anything we can do in the meantime?
- What will the tests cost, and can I have that in writing?
Our appointment question builder can help you make a list that suits your situation.
After the appointment
Write down what was agreed while it is fresh, or ask if you can make notes during the visit. Keep copies of every new report. If something wasn't clear, it is reasonable to ask again; a good doctor will be happy to explain.
Caution. Don't start or change any medicines, including fertility medicines bought online, unless a doctor has recommended them for you and is monitoring you.
When to see a doctor
Book a first appointment if you have been trying for 12 months and are under 35, for 6 months from 35, or straight away from 40. See a doctor sooner, at any age, if periods are very irregular or have stopped, you have known endometriosis or a past pelvic infection, you have had two or more pregnancy losses, or there is a known concern for the male partner. Severe pelvic pain, heavy bleeding or fainting needs urgent care: call 112 or go to the nearest hospital.
Sources
This is general information, not medical advice. It can't account for your history. Please talk to a doctor about your own situation. Medical disclaimer
Severe pain, heavy bleeding or fainting? Call 112 or go to the nearest hospital.