Curious about fertility

1. Fertility 101
2. Fertility facts vs. myths
3. Healthy lifestyles and fertility

Under 35 and trying to get pregnant

1. Difficulty conceiving
2. Common reasons for infertility
3. Should I see a doctor about my fertility?
4. Helpful tools for trying to get pregnant
5. Fertility support groups

Ready to talk to a fertility specialist

1. About fertility specialists (reproductive endocrinologists)
2. Getting ready for your first visit to a fertility clinic
3. Finding the right fertility clinic for you
4. What happens after I visit a fertility clinic?
5. Fertility treatment options (e.g., ovulation induction, IVF)
6. Alternative and natural adjunctive therapy for infertility
7. Cost of fertility treatments
8. Understanding fertility clinic success rate statistics
9. Not convinced? Get a second opinion about your fertility.
10. Talking to your partner and friends about fertility
11. Handling the stress of trying to get pregnant
12. Fertility support groups
13. Helpful tools for trying to get pregnant

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About fertility specialists (reproductive endocrinologists)

Just going to a doctor or fertility clinic (use the fertility clinic locator to find a fertility clinic near you) is a big step for couples who are having difficulty conceiving. Many couples begin by seeing an obstetrician/gynecologist (OB/GYN) who will conduct some preliminary tests - monitoring ovulation, postcoital tests, basic blood work, and so forth.

A woman may be started on some initial basic treatments for several cycles. Hopefully, this basic treatment will work. However, if it doesn't work (typically decided after 3 to 4 months of use with no successful pregnancy), it may be time to start seeing a fertility specialist, also called a reproductive endocrinologist (REI).

A fertility specialist specializes in treating reproductive disorders. They have completed the same education and medical requirements as an OB/GYN and have done extra training in the area of assisted reproductive technologies (ART).

Find a fertility specialist, or REI, in your area.

If you are trying to conceive and plan on seeing a fertility specialist or REI, here are a list of questions that may help during your appointment:

• What specific tests would you recommend to diagnose my infertility? How much do they cost?
• How long will it take to diagnose our problem?
• Based on the results of those tests, what are my treatment options?
• What is the national success rate for those treatments in terms of live births?
• Will my insurance pay for the testing and/or treatments? Will your clinic help me determine what my insurance will cover?
• How will I communicate with you during this whole process?
• Does your clinic provide emotional counselling, or can you refer me to a counsellor who deals with fertility problems?

You can also use the doctor discussion guide to help you prepare for your visit.