How to prepare for your IVF consultation

Starting IVF is a big step, and your initial consultation is where the journey really begins. This first appointment is all about understanding your fertility picture and planning the right path forward—with support, clarity and care. Here’s how to make sure you’re ready.

Why the IVF Consultation Matters

Your IVF consultation is more than just a chat—it’s the foundation for everything that follows. You’ll meet with a fertility specialist who will look at your medical history, talk through your hopes and concerns, and begin to shape a treatment plan tailored to you.

This is your chance to ask questions, understand what’s involved, and feel confident about the next steps. Booking an appointment at one of our friendly local clinics is a calm, straightforward way to start your journey.

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Bring the Right Information

Before your appointment, try to pull together any relevant medical history. That includes previous fertility tests, scans, or treatments you’ve had—whether through the NHS or privately.

It’s also helpful to make a note of any health conditions, surgeries, or medications you’re currently taking. And if you have a partner, include their medical history too if possible. This gives your specialist a clear picture and helps them give you the best advice.

It doesn’t need to be perfect—just do your best. If you’re not sure what’s relevant, bring it anyway. We’d always rather have more than not enough.

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Write Down Your Questions

It’s completely normal to have lots of questions—or to feel like you don’t know where to start. Writing them down ahead of time can really help you make the most of your consultation.

You might want to ask about:

• Success rates for people in your situation
• What tests or treatments might be recommended
• The difference between using fresh or frozen embryos
• How donor eggs or sperm might be used
• Any lifestyle changes that could support your fertility

No question is too small or too silly—this is your time, and your doctor is here to help.

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Be Open About Your Fertility History

This can be the hardest part, especially if the road to IVF has been long or emotionally tough. But sharing openly about what you’ve been through helps your specialist understand what you need—and how to support you best.

Talk about any previous attempts to conceive, past IVF cycles, known fertility issues, or anything that’s been especially challenging. The more your doctor knows, the more personalised and effective your treatment plan will be.

And remember: there’s no judgement here. Just care, empathy and support.

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Understand Your Treatment Options

Once your specialist has a clear view of your situation, they’ll talk you through the options—what they recommend, why, and what the process might look like.

They’ll also explain any tests you may need, such as:

• Hormone blood tests
• Pelvic ultrasound scans
• A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) to check your fallopian tubes

This part of the conversation is about setting expectations: success rates, timelines, and any possible side effects. It’s about understanding what’s ahead, so nothing feels unexpected.

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Don’t Forget the Emotional Side

Fertility treatment can bring up all sorts of emotions—hope, anxiety, grief, excitement—sometimes all in the same day. It’s completely normal to feel this way, and it’s something your clinic should be ready to support you with.

If you’re struggling emotionally, or just want to know what support is available, bring it up. Your specialist may suggest talking to a fertility counsellor, joining a support group, or exploring other resources to help you feel more grounded throughout the journey.

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What to Bring on the Day

Here’s a quick checklist to help you feel prepared:

• Your medical records or referral letters
• Details of any medications you’re taking
• Notes on your fertility and menstrual history
• Any past test results or treatments
• A list of questions you’d like to ask

Some people also find it helpful to bring a partner, friend or loved one—someone who can offer support and help you remember what was said.

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Questions Worth Asking

Not sure what to ask? Here are a few common ones people find helpful:

• What tests do I need before starting IVF?
• What treatment plan do you recommend for me, and why?
• What are the chances of success in my case?
• What’s the difference between fresh and frozen embryos?
• Will I need to consider using donor eggs or sperm?

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Final Thoughts

Your IVF consultation is the first real step on your fertility journey—and preparing for it can make all the difference. The more open, informed and curious you are, the more you’ll get out of it.

We’re here to walk with you, every step of the way.