How to Talk to Your GP About Fertility Concerns

Worried about fertility? Here’s how to talk to your GP — what to say, ask, and bring, plus NHS guidelines and private care tips. Read the post "talk to your GP about fertility"

GETTING STARTED

What to say, what to bring, and how to get the care you deserve

When you begin to worry about your fertility, one of the first big steps is reaching out to your GP. Understandably, this can feel awkward, intimidating, or even a little embarrassing — especially if you're someone who usually handles things quietly. However, this appointment is important. It marks the beginning of getting real answers, and it's something you absolutely deserve.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to prepare for your GP appointment, what to expect, and how to make sure you feel heard — whether you’re trying for your first child or have been TTC (trying to conceive) for a while.

Why This Appointment Matters

Your GP is the gateway to fertility care on the NHS, and often the starting point even if you're exploring private options. They can help identify potential causes of infertility, arrange initial blood tests, and refer you to a fertility clinic if needed.

That said, not every GP is a fertility specialist. This is why it helps to arrive informed and prepared.

Related: Is It Time to Get Help? Recognising the Signs of Infertility

What to Prepare Before You Go

Before your appointment, gather the following information to give your GP a clearer picture:

Menstrual cycle tracking — even rough notes are useful. Consider using apps like Flo, Clue, or Natural Cycles.
How long you’ve been trying to conceive
Any previous pregnancies or miscarriages
Your partner’s fertility history, if relevant
A list of questions or concerns
Relevant medical history, such as PCOS, endometriosis, thyroid issues, or past STIs

NHS Guidelines: When to Seek Help

According to the NHS and the NICE guidelines:

Seek help after 12 months if you're under 35
Seek help after 6 months if you're over 35
Seek help sooner if you have known issues (e.g. no periods, low sperm count, PCOS)

It’s important not to delay — especially if age or health conditions could impact your fertility.

Related: Fertility Tests: What to Expect and What They Mean

What to Expect at the Appointment

Each GP is different, but typically your appointment will include:

Questions about your cycle regularity, contraception history, and general lifestyle
A brief sexual health review
Blood tests for hormones such as FSH, LH, thyroid function, and progesterone
A semen analysis for your partner, if applicable
Potential referrals for an ultrasound or additional testing

If you're over 35, your GP may refer you more quickly for specialist care.

For more, see the NICE fertility recommendations.

How to Self-Advocate (Even If You're Nervous)

It’s okay to feel anxious, but you’re allowed to speak up for your own care. Here are some helpful phrases you can use:

“I’ve been tracking my cycles and trying for over 12 months. I’d like to explore fertility testing.”
“I’ve read the NICE guidelines and believe I qualify for a referral.”
“I’m aware that age matters, so I want to make sure we don’t lose time.”

Print the NHS fertility page and bring it with you — it can help support your requests.

NHS vs Private Fertility Care: What to Ask

You don’t need to make any big decisions at this stage. Still, it's smart to ask your GP the following:

What does the NHS fertility pathway involve in your area?
Which tests can be ordered directly through the GP?
Can you receive copies of your results in case you also explore private care?

Starting NHS tests while researching private IVF options can help save time — and reduce costs.

Final Thoughts

While it might feel like a small step, this appointment is a powerful one. You’re no longer waiting in silence — you’re taking action.

Should your GP not be supportive, remember that you can always request another doctor, ask for a follow-up, or bring someone with you. You have every right to seek the care you need.

My IVF Journey: GP Visit Nerves

(Your story section placeholder — feel free to update this with your real experience)

I remember sitting in the GP’s waiting room with a folder full of notes and a heart full of nerves. I was 41, hopeful but realistic, and unsure whether we’d go NHS or private. That visit sparked everything that followed — and this blog exists because I don’t want anyone else to feel as alone as I did. You’re not alone. This step matters.