Written by Dr. Lucy Bennett
Dr. Lucy has been practicing medicine since 2014 and has significant experience in Obstetrics and Gynecology, particularly in fertility. She completed a clinical fellowship in Reproductive Medicine at a leading fertility clinic in London, authored numerous articles, and shared her insights at various global conferences, contributing to fertility trials for women facing challenges. She also serves as the Co-Chief Medical Officer for OVUM.
Beginning your fertility journey can be a significant and sometimes overwhelming experience. Whether you’re considering your future fertility options, are in a same-sex relationship, thinking about egg freezing, or actively trying to conceive, your GP often serves as your initial point of contact and a vital resource in this process.
This guide aims to prepare you for your fertility consultation with your GP, providing insights on when to reach out, what to anticipate, and essential questions to ask. It’s normal to feel stressed during this period, but we hope this information empowers you to take the first step in scheduling your consultation and understanding the subsequent steps for informed decision-making.
If conception is taking longer than expected, it doesn’t necessarily indicate an issue, but a healthcare professional can assess your situation and determine if there are any immediate concerns to address. They will also guide you on when to be referred to an IVF clinic for further evaluations.
How Long is Too Long? How Long Should It Take?
Keep in mind that 8 out of 10 couples under 40 will conceive within a year, meaning 80% of women will become pregnant if they try for a full year. Additionally, 9 out of 10 couples under 40 will conceive within two years. However, while trying to conceive, a year can feel elongated, and each menstrual cycle can be a blow to your morale—two years can seem like a lifetime. According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), you should consult a doctor if:
- You are under 35 and have been trying to conceive for 12 months.
- You are over 36 and have been trying for 6 months.
This guideline varies with age, as fertility issues are more likely to arise as you get older, making early investigation beneficial. If you’re worried about your ability to conceive, it’s wise to consult your GP sooner rather than later. If you or your partner have known fertility issues, such as blocked fallopian tubes or a low sperm count, don’t hesitate to see your GP immediately.
What to Expect During the Consultation
It’s typically recommended that both you and your partner attend the appointment, as your GP may ask various questions, and having both perspectives can be beneficial.
Questions You May Encounter and Information to Prepare
- Be ready to share details about your menstrual cycles, including the timing of your last period and any patterns you’ve noticed. This can help you avoid the stress of searching through your calendar for dates.
- Discuss any previous pregnancies, including terminations or miscarriages, and how these were managed. You may wish to share sensitive information in private later.
- Inform the GP about any medical conditions (past or present) or surgeries you’ve had, especially any that relate to gynecology.
- If you have undergone any fertility tests, bring the results along, especially if your GP might not have access to them.
- Share your history of contraception and any sexually transmitted infections, noting that this can be kept confidential if preferred.
- Mention when your last cervical smear was conducted.
- If you’re in a heterosexual relationship, be prepared to discuss the frequency of intercourse and any difficulties experienced, like erectile dysfunction, in a casual manner.
For more insights, you can check out our blog on the five sins of pregnancy you can actually commit here. Additionally, for those looking to enhance fertility, resources like Make A Mom’s fertility booster for men can be quite helpful. For a comprehensive overview of IVF, visit Mayo Clinic’s IVF resource.
Summary
Preparing for a fertility consultation with your GP is a crucial step in your journey. Understanding when to seek help, what to expect, and how to articulate your concerns can make the process smoother. Remember, your GP is there to support you, so don’t hesitate to reach out early if you have any concerns.