Your first fertility consultation

You do not need to arrive with a diagnosis

A first fertility consultation is meant to organise the story, not test whether you already understand medical language. The clinician will usually ask how long you have been trying, whether cycles are regular, whether either partner has conceived before, and whether there are previous tests, operations, infections, medicines or treatments that may matter.

Where two partners are involved, both histories are useful. Fertility should not automatically be treated as only a woman’s concern. The goal is to identify which questions need answering first and avoid unnecessary testing.

What to bring

Bring whatever you already have; missing paperwork should not prevent you from attending.

• Previous scan, blood-test or semen-analysis reports
• A list of current medicines and supplements
• Dates and brief details of previous pregnancies or fertility treatment
• Information about cycle timing, if known
• Identification and practical questions about cost or appointment timing

Questions worth asking

Useful questions include: What are the main possibilities you are considering? Which tests would change the plan? Should both partners be assessed now? What can we do first, and what can wait? What are the full costs of the next stage? A good consultation should leave you with a clearer plan, even if the final diagnosis is not yet known.

When to seek help sooner

Many definitions use 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse, but age and medical history change when it is sensible to seek advice. Earlier assessment may be appropriate for people aged 35 or older, very irregular or absent periods, previous pelvic surgery, known endometriosis, recurrent pregnancy loss, cancer treatment, sexual or ejaculation difficulties, or known male reproductive concerns.