What Fertility Doctors Wish More Patients Knew Before Their First Visit
Starting a family is a complex journey, and fertility doctors are here to support you on your path to parenthood. Understanding common misconceptions about infertility care and making certain lifestyle changes can help enhance your chances of fertility success before you even schedule your first visit.
Common Infertility Care Misconceptions
Many misconceptions about infertility care prevent couples and individuals from seeing a reproductive specialist, including:
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You need an infertility diagnosis to see a reproductive specialist: Anyone can schedule an appointment to talk about any fertility concerns.
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You can’t seek treatment until you’ve been trying to conceive for a year: Most physicians recommend trying to conceive naturally for a year (if under the age of 35) before seeking infertility care. However, if you have questions, concerns, or medical conditions that impact fertility, you can swiftly undergo fertility testing to rule out or confirm a reproductive health problem.
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Infertility care is uncommon: Many couples and individuals undergo infertility care to grow their families. Roughly 1 in 6 adults worldwide experience infertility, so you aren’t alone.
No matter where you are on your fertility journey, fertility doctors are here to answer your questions and guide you through your treatment options.
Preparing for Your Initial Consultation
Your first fertility consultation may feel a bit intimidating, but the purpose of this appointment is for the reproductive specialist to thoroughly understand your medical history and family-building goals. This will enable them to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to help you conceive.
During this appointment, you'll review your medical history, discuss any previous pregnancies or miscarriages, and talk about your current lifestyle. A clinical assistant will take your vital signs, and the reproductive specialist will conduct a pelvic exam and an ultrasound. They may also recommend additional fertility testing for a future appointment.
Be sure to bring any important documents, such as insurance or medical papers. Also, write down any questions you have for the reproductive specialist. If you have a partner, you can also bring them to your initial fertility consultation.
Adjusting Your Lifestyle for Fertility Success
Before you see a reproductive specialist, you can begin taking steps to increase your chances of fertility success. These lifestyle changes include:
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Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet prioritizing leafy greens, lean proteins, and fibrous foods
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Taking prenatal vitamins
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Staying physically active
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Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption
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Getting adequate sleep
Schedule Your First Fertility Appointment Today
If you’re ready to start an infertility care journey, taking steps to prepare for your first visit and adjusting your lifestyle to increase your chances of fertility success can be extremely helpful. At the Center for Reproductive Medicine, our knowledgeable team can walk you through the fertility treatment process and support you during your first visit and beyond. Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment in Winter Park or Celebration.
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About the Blog
Welcome to the Center for Reproductive Medicine Blog! Nationally and internationally recognized for providing exceptional reproductive care, our team believes in empowering people with the knowledge they need to navigate their unique fertility journeys.
From information on the latest fertility treatments to valuable insights on egg donation, surrogacy, and everything in between, the Center for Reproductive Medicine Blog is your ultimate resource for all things reproductive care and support. Read on to learn more, and contact us today if you have any questions or want to schedule a new patient appointment.