Top Questions to Ask at Your First Fertility Consultation

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Key Takeaways
  • Your first fertility consultation is a valuable opportunity to ask about testing, treatment options, timelines, and success rates.
  • Preparing specific questions helps you feel empowered and make informed decisions about your care.
  • Reproductive Partners San Diego provides personalized guidance to help you navigate every step of your fertility journey with confidence.

Preparing for Your First Fertility Appointment

Starting the journey toward parenthood with the help of a fertility specialist is a big step. Whether you’re dealing with infertility, planning to preserve your fertility, or exploring IVF, your first consultation sets the foundation for your care.

At Reproductive Partners Fertility Center- San Diego, our goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based guidance tailored to your needs. To help you feel prepared, we’ve compiled the top questions you should consider asking during your initial fertility visit.

How to Prepare for Your First Fertility Consultation

Join Dr. Jamie Stanhiser from Reproductive Partners Fertility Center San Diego (RPSD) as she shares essential tips and insights on how to prepare for your IVF journey. From understanding the process to making lifestyle adjustments, Dr. Stanhiser covers everything you need to know to increase your chances of success.

1. What tests will I need to understand my fertility status?

Fertility care starts with diagnostics. Ask your provider which tests they recommend and what those results can reveal. These may include:
  • Hormone bloodwork (AMH, FSH, LH, estradiol)
  • Ultrasound to evaluate your ovaries and uterus
  • Semen analysis for male partners
  • Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) or saline ultrasound to check fallopian tubes

2. What are the success rates of the recommended treatments?

Ask for clinic-specific data that reflects patients with a similar age and diagnosis. At RPSD, we prioritize single embryo transfer (SET) and report our singleton live birth rate, the safest and most ideal outcome for patients and babies.

3. What treatment options are available to me?

Ask about recommended next steps and treatment options based on your test results, age, and goals. These might include:
  • Ovulation induction
  • Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
  • In vitro fertilization (IVF)
  • Egg or sperm freezing
  • Donor or gestational carrier options

4. How long will the process take?

Timelines vary depending on your diagnosis and treatment path. Ask your fertility specialist how long testing, preparation, and treatment cycles typically take, and what to expect at each phase.

5. How does my age affect my fertility?

Age plays a major role in fertility—particularly in egg quality and quantity. Ask how your age may affect your treatment options, your timeline, and your likelihood of success.

6. What are the costs, and what’s covered by insurance?

Fertility treatment can be a financial commitment. During your visit, ask:
  • What is the estimated cost of testing and treatment?
  • What does my insurance plan cover?
  • Are payment plans or fertility financing available?

At RPSD, we provide a dedicated financial consultation to help you understand your options.

Financial Considerations

Join us as we break down the essentials of fertility insurance coverage and how it works at RPSD. Learn about what is typically covered, tips for working with your insurance provider, and how we support you throughout the process.

7. Who will be my main point of contact throughout treatment?

Ask how care is coordinated and whether you’ll work directly with your physician and a nurse coordinator. Knowing who to contact with questions ensures you feel supported from start to finish.

8. What lifestyle changes can improve my fertility?

Fertility is about more than just medications. Ask your doctor how factors like nutrition, sleep, exercise, stress, alcohol, and supplements may support or hinder your fertility journey. At RPSD, we believe in whole-person care and will guide you through supportive lifestyle adjustments. Learn More

9. Does your fertility center batch cycles?

This is a key question. At Reproductive Partners San Diego, we do not batch IVF cycles. Instead of syncing all patients to a shared schedule, we time each cycle to your natural rhythm and readiness. This individualized approach maximizes success and minimizes stress. You are never rushed or delayed due to clinic scheduling—we move forward when your body is ready. Learn More

10. What are the next steps after this consultation?

Clarify what comes next. Will you start testing right away? Should you begin tracking your cycle? Will you be scheduled for follow-ups or additional diagnostics? Knowing the next steps gives you a clear path forward.

Empowering You With Knowledge and Support

Asking the right questions is the first step in building a trusted relationship with your fertility care team. At Reproductive Partners San Diego, we’re committed to providing clarity, comfort, and personalized care at every visit. No matter where you are in your journey, we’re here to guide you with expertise and empathy.

Ready to start your fertility journey?
Schedule your first consultation at our La Jolla fertility center and take the first step toward building your family with expert, compassionate care.