How to Select a Fertility Doctor
If you have tried to have a baby for many months without success, it may be time to select a fertility doctor. This type of doctor, often called a reproductive endocrinologist (RE), will perform tests on you and your partner to determine where your fertility difficulties lie. Finding a competent doctor you trust is important. You will also want to try to select someone who is in-network for your insurance plan.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
-
-
1
Speak to your ob/gyn about your concerns about your fertility. He may see infertility patients, in which case you would not need to select a new physician. If he does not provide infertility treatments, get a recommendation or referral for a new doctor.
-
2
Ask discreetly in your circle of friends or acquaintances about who is the best RE around town. Frequently, especially in smaller areas, the same names will keep popping up. Ask for details about why your friends like a particular doctor.
-
3
Request a copy of your health insurance contract from your employer. The contract will list what types of fertility treatments are covered, as well as what procedures are excluded. Write down what is covered so you will be able to talk about treatment options when you interview doctors.
-
4
Go through your insurance directory of providers to find what RE doctors in your area participate with your insurance plan. If you can find a doctor you like in your network or PPO, it may lessen your financial burden down the road.
-
5
Call each doctor from your list to ask whether she is taking new patients. Arrange a consultation appointment with each so you can meet her and ask questions.
-
6
Go to the appointments with potential fertility doctors having done your homework. If you have been diagnosed with any relevant conditions, make sure you know all the treatment options available to you so you can discuss them. Have an idea of how you and your partner want to proceed with trying to conceive.
-
7
Take notes with each physician you interview. Doctors often have varying opinions about how many rounds of clomid are effective or when to move on to more aggressive drugs or procedures. You will want to remember what each person's approach is before you make your selection.
-
8
Discuss all your options for a fertility doctor with your partner as your select your final choice. Trust your instincts about how each doctor's personality and approach will mesh with yours.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
It is helpful if your partner can attend the initial consultations with the doctors you are considering. Trying to conceive is obviously a joint effort. You both should be on the same page when deciding who you will choose to help you with such a huge life decision.
