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Documents To Bring To Your First IVF Consultation

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In vitro fertilization is a very advanced science, a life-changing procedure based on decades of research and practice. It is unlike any other fertility treatment available. It is no wonder that the process requires extensive preparation by the practitioners and the patients alike. Physicals, tests, and important talks will certainly enter the equation, every step preceded by what may seem like a mountain of paperwork.

Most fertility clinics will provide you with a list of documentation to bring – calling in to ask a few weeks in advance will give you plenty of time to collect and copy the necessities. Some specialists may even host the most important forms online so that busy clients can print and fill in the forms at home. This quick guide will help you compile the information you need to maximize the efficiency of your consultation session.

General Medical History

Like any other important medical consultation, your complete health records are necessary to begin even the most preliminary testing or treatment. Begin with the basics: list your allergies, major childhood illnesses, describe any serious accidents. Your complete medical records should include information about previous blood transfusions or surgical procedures. Include current medical information such as your medication regimen along with any supplements.

Describe your diet and lifestyle. Do you work around x-rays or chemicals? Do you follow any dietary restrictions or modifications? Which over-the-counter medications do you use?

Provide as much family history as you can find. It is important to note the history of your siblings as well as your parents. It is worth mentioning that your partner if providing the semen sample will need to bring the same extensive medical documentation as described above.

Full Obstetrical History

Gynecologic, sexual, and contraceptive history are important. Bring along any information about your conception efforts, any previous pregnancies, the results of any pre-conceptual health screenings, previous infertility tests, and treatments, hormone tests, etc. Every piece of obstetrical history you can provide will help your specialist no matter when the results are dated.

Anecdotal evidence is very valuable as well. Bring along any notes you have made about your cycles, menses, and conception efforts. Your personal observations can reveal crucial information that tests cannot.

Male participants will need to bring equivalent documentation. Infertility/fertility history, sexual history, medical/surgical history, occupational and leisure history, and family history are all equally important when preparing for the in-vitro fertilization process. This applies whether the person is your partner, your spouse, or a donor.

General Info And Notes

Expect to discuss insurance and financing. Bring your insurance cards and records of any necessary authorized referrals. Written authorization is often required. If you are looking for help with infertility in New York, contact the reproductive medicine specialists at Genesis for information about alternative financing options.

You or your referring physician can fax the records prior to your consultation.  By getting the document gathering and information sharing out of the way as soon as possible, you will have more time to ask the questions you need to be answered and move onto the preliminary testing and treatments. The process is time-consuming by nature, the wait is painful, but a prepared participant is an empowered patient.