Where Should I Go First?
If you are struggling to become pregnant, you may have started thinking about setting up an appointment with a fertility specialist. But what kind of specialist should you try to meet with? There are so many fertility related services that it is sometimes overwhelming thinking about where to start!
You probably want to start by seeing your ob-gyn. He/she will be able to do an initial fertility work-up. Most of the time, your ob-gyn will be able to set you up with a ttc (trying to conceive) plan that will be successful for you. However, you ob-gyn may also decide to refer you to a fertility specialist. These specialists are called reproductive endocrinologists. They are able to do a more extensive evaluation and talk about treatment options with you. Even if you are referred to a RE (reproductive endocrinologist) it doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to conceive naturally in the near future. It is just a wonderful way to tap into all the fertility related resources and minimal medical assistance options. The RE may decide to prescribe medication to help regulate your cycles or perform a minor surgery such as an IUI (intra-uterine insemination). Much more infrequently, they may recommend that you look into using IVF to help with becoming pregnant.
If you are thinking of meeting with an ob-gyn or RE, here is a list of questions to take with you to help make sure you are getting as much information as possible during your appointment:
- Which tests or procedures would you recommend for me to help find out why I have not conceived yet?
- Which tests would you recommend for my spouse?
- What is the cost for each test or procedure?
- What are the treatment plan options based on the tests/procedures you are recommending for me?
- What is the timeline for each of the tests/procedures/treatments?
- What are your success rates with the test/procedures/treatments that you are recommending?
- Are there any side-effects to the tests/procedures/treatments you are recommending?
Good luck to you on your ttc journey!