Starting a family is an exciting prospect for most people. After all, few joys can compare to seeing your child in a healthy and safe environment. For this reason, a fertility consultation is conducted to determine the best course of action for expecting parents. However, this is easier said than done because while a fertility consultation can help, it can also be daunting.
During a fertility consultation, a physician will evaluate the couple’s medical history, current lifestyle, and potential fertility issues. The couple will also discuss their goals for starting a family and any concerns they may have, from which the physician will provide information on fertility treatments, such as medications, lifestyle changes, or surgical procedures. A fertility consultation is similar to most medical consultations, so you must know what questions to ask. These include:
#1 – What Types of Tests Do You Recommend?
Your fertility consultation will likely include a physical exam and laboratory tests. Depending on the results from these tests, further tests may be recommended. Standard tests include blood tests to check hormone levels, ultrasounds to check for any abnormalities in the female reproductive organs, and semen analysis to check the quality of the sperm. Your doctor may also recommend genetic testing to check for any inherited medical conditions that could affect fertility.
#2 – What Are the Treatment Options Offered by Your Fertility Clinic?
Your fertility clinic will likely offer a variety of treatment options. These include medications to stimulate ovulation, artificial insemination, in vitro fertilization (IVF), and intrauterine insemination. Sometimes, the doctor may suggest lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress or increasing exercise, to improve fertility. Your doctor may also recommend surgery to correct any abnormalities in the reproductive organs. Your doctor can refer you to a reproductive endocrinologist for more advanced treatments.
In addition to these treatments, your fertility clinic may offer other services such as counselling, financial assistance, and support groups. You must discuss all the options available with your doctor to determine the best option.
#3 – Are There Risks with Fertility Treatments?
Fertility treatments are generally safe. However, some risks include multiple pregnancies resulting in twins, triplets, or more. Naturally, this can overwhelm the mother’s body and increase the risk of premature birth and other complications.
It is also possible that hyperstimulation syndrome can occur, which is an overreaction of the ovaries to stimulation medications. This can lead to abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening. For this reason, you must ask your fertility doctor about these treatments to know what is right for you.
#4 – What Are the Lifestyle Changes We Should Make?
Making lifestyle changes is a crucial way to improve fertility. These changes can help couples trying to conceive and support existing pregnancies.
For couples trying to conceive, limiting alcohol intake, quitting smoking, and reducing stress are necessary steps. Eating a healthy diet, taking prenatal vitamins, and exercising regularly can also help improve fertility.
Pregnant women must quit smoking, avoid alcohol and recreational drugs, and get regular exercise. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, proteins, and whole grains is also important. Pregnant women should also get plenty of rest and stay hydrated.
#5 – What Are Your Payment and Insurance Options?
Regarding fertility treatments, insurance coverage and payment options vary widely. Many insurance companies provide coverage for fertility treatments, but the scope of coverage varies. Some insurance companies may cover diagnostic tests, while others may cover specific treatments or medications. You must research your insurance coverage and understand what is and is not covered.
#6 – What Happens Next?
After your initial fertility consultation, what happens next will depend on the diagnosis and the treatment plan you and your fertility specialist decide on. The fertility specialist will review your medical history, symptoms, and test results to determine your best action.
If you require medications, your fertility specialist will explain the process, the side effects, and any potential risks associated with the medications. If you and your fertility specialist decide to proceed with treatment, you will be given instructions on preparing for the procedure. You may also need to undergo additional tests or have blood work done. Once these steps have been completed, you will be ready to start treatment. From there, you must follow your fertility specialist’s instructions and keep all appointments.
Conclusion
The first fertility consultation can be daunting but it does not have to be. It will be a long process, but your efforts will be worth it because you will be one step closer to achieving your dreams of having a family. This way, you can ensure that you are on the right track and getting the best care possible.
If you are looking for a fertility consultant, First Steps Fertility Clinic can help you! Fertility health is vital to overall health, so we work to provide solutions for everyone’s unique circumstances. Call us today at 416-924-4666 to book a consultation!
