Written by Samantha Oliver. Reviewed by Jenny Wordsworth.

Starting the Conversation: Preparing for a Fertility Check-Up

Beginning your fertility journey can feel overwhelming, especially when it’s time to speak with a specialist. Fertility challenges are more common than you might think—around 1 in 7 couples will experience some difficulty conceiving naturally.

Whether you're just starting to consider your options, are in a same-sex relationship, planning to freeze your eggs, intending to become a solo parent, or actively trying to conceive, your GP is usually the first step and a valuable guide. It’s usually recommended that one attends the appointment with a trusted support person, as you may be asked about your medical history, menstrual cycles, sexual health, or past pregnancies. These questions can feel personal, but they’re confidential, judgment-free, and help build a clear picture of your fertility. Knowing what to expect can make this first step feel more manageable and more empowering.

Questions to Ask at Your First IVF Appointment

Whether IVF is something you've been planning for a while or it’s newly on the table, asking the right questions can help you feel informed, supported, and more in control of your next steps.

Here’s a list to guide you through that first conversation with your fertility doctor:

Tests and Treatment Planning:

• What does the timeline look like, and is there a waitlist?

• What types of tests will I need, and what will they tell me? Must I have these at your clinic?

• How do you determine whether IVF is the right option for me?

• When will I receive a treatment plan, and how will it be personalised?

• What stimulation protocol am I likely to be on, and why? 

• Do you take into account my/our future family building plans? How will this impact the approach taken for my treatment?

Medication and Procedures:

• Will I need medications before starting IVF? What are they, and what should I expect?

• How many embryos do you typically recommend transferring?

• Do you recommend genetic testing (like PGT-A or PGT-M)? If so, why?

• What is the clinic’s policy on freezing embryos or eggs, and what are the annual storage costs?

• What can you tell me about your embryology team? Are they available to speak with?

• What is the typical IVF timeline from consultation to embryo transfer?

Success and Support:

• What are the success rates of IVF at this clinic for someone in my situation? How many patients end up in a position with no embryos to transfer?

• What are the risks or potential side effects of IVF?

• Do you recommend any lifestyle changes or at-home steps I can take to support the process?

• What emotional, nutritional, or wellbeing support is available during IVF?

• How will you help make sure I am listened to throughout the process?

• Will I be taught to self-inject, or will I need to find my own tutorials? Do you have any app support, or videos I can watch?

Cost and Future Communication:

• What will the costs look like, and are there (assuming you’re not having NHS treatments) payment options available?

• Are there additional costs for a freeze-all collection cycle? 

• If I have questions after today, whom do I contact and how?

• Is there an emergency phone number I can contact?

Post-Appointment Thoughts and Feelings

You might leave with a clearer plan, a head full of new information, or even more questions than you came in with, and that’s okay. Processing takes time. Take notes, ask for clarifications, and don’t hesitate to follow up with your clinic. This is your journey, and you deserve answers that feel right for you.

Summary and Key Takeaways

Your first IVF consultation can feel like a lot; new terms, emotions, and decisions all at once. Whether you're just starting to explore IVF, already preparing for treatment, or considering fertility preservation, knowing what to ask can make all the difference.

You are your best advocate. Remember that you’re paying for an expensive private healthcare treatment - you have every right to ask questions, take notes and ensure you have the clarity you need to make a decision that’s best for you.