Questions to Ask Your Fertility Doctor: What I Wish I Knew Before My First Visit

Heading into your first fertility appointment can feel overwhelming. Between the emotions, medical terms, and all the information online, it’s easy to forget what to ask. In this post, I’ll share the essential questions to ask your fertility doctor, things I wish I had asked, and tips to make the most of your first visit.

Why Your First Fertility Appointment Matters

Your first visit sets the tone for your fertility journey. It’s not just about tests or treatments — it’s about understanding your diagnosis, exploring options, and getting clear guidance for the road ahead.

Being prepared can help you feel confident and ensure you leave the appointment with actionable next steps.

Questions to Ask Your Fertility Doctor

Here are the key questions I recommend asking during your first appointment:

1. Understanding Your Diagnosis

• What tests do I need to evaluate my fertility (hormone panels, ultrasounds, semen analysis, etc.)?

• How do my test results compare to normal ranges?

• How might my age or AMH levels affect my fertility?

• Are there underlying conditions affecting fertility (e.g., endometriosis, PCOS, blocked tubes)?

  
  

2. Treatment Options

• What treatments are available for my situation?

• How do you decide between timed intercourse, IUI, or IVF?

• Are there lifestyle changes, supplements, or medications that could improve my chances?

• What is the typical timeline for each treatment option?

  
  

3. Success Rates

• What is the success rate for patients in my age group and with my diagnosis?

• What is the live birth rate per cycle for IVF or IUI at your clinic?

• How does egg quality, AMH, or sperm count affect my chances?

• How many cycles are typically needed before success?

  
  

4. Insurance and Costs

• What does my insurance cover, and what are out-of-pocket costs?

• Are there required steps before IVF coverage (e.g., failed IUI or medicated cycles)?

• Are medications included, or billed separately?

• Are financing options or payment plans available?

  
  

5. Understanding Procedures and Protocols

• How is a cycle structured (medications, monitoring, injections)?

• How often will I need blood draws or ultrasounds?

• What side effects or risks should I expect?

• What happens if a cycle fails — what are the next steps?

  
  

6. Emotional and Practical Support

• Does the clinic offer counseling or support groups?

• Can I contact a patient coordinator between appointments?

• Are there resources for coping, stress management, or connecting with other patients?

  
  

Things I Wish I Had Asked

Here’s what I wish I had remembered during my first visit:

• What are my realistic expectations for egg quality and embryo development?

• How do you handle low success rates or failed cycles?

• Are donor eggs, sperm, or embryos an option if needed?

• How do you coordinate care with other specialists if additional treatments are needed?

• Can you explain potential complications and how they are managed?

• Should I do a Receptiva test? Even though I had no symptoms of endometriosis, my concerns were initially dismissed. The test finally showed a positive result, which helped guide my treatment plan and avoid further failed cycles. I wish I had asked about this sooner — it could save time, emotional stress, and unsuccessful cycles.