Booking your first fertility consultation is a big deal — and if you’re anything like most people, you might be feeling a mix of anxiety, hope, and vulnerability. Whether you're going through the NHS or a private clinic, knowing what to expect at your first fertility appointment can ease some of the nerves and help you feel more in control.

This post walks you through everything you need to know: what will happen, what questions you'll be asked, what to bring, and how to emotionally prepare for a conversation that’s both personal and medical.

What Is a Fertility Consultation?

A fertility consultation is the initial appointment where you’ll discuss your reproductive history, health concerns, and hopes for having a baby. You’ll usually meet with a fertility specialist (or sometimes a nurse or reproductive health doctor) and begin to map out what next steps might be helpful — whether that’s further testing, lifestyle changes, or treatment options like IVF, IUI, or donor conception.

This appointment is often a mixture of:

• Medical history review

• Basic physical and/or blood tests

• A conversation about your fertility timeline and goals

• An introduction to the clinic’s process, team, and costs (if private)

Before Your Appointment: How to Prepare

1. Gather Your Medical Records
Bring any past test results, scan reports, or relevant diagnoses. If you’ve had irregular cycles, miscarriages, surgeries, or prior fertility treatment, this info is key.

2. Track Your Cycle (If Possible)
Even a few months of menstrual cycle data — including timing, symptoms, and ovulation tracking — can be useful.

3. Make a List of Questions
No question is too small. Consider asking:

• What tests will we need?

• How long will it take to get started?

• What lifestyle changes could help?

• What happens next if we need IVF?

4. Decide if You’re Going Together
If you have a partner, most clinics encourage both of you to attend. Male fertility testing is a standard part of initial investigations.

5. Be Ready to Talk About Difficult Things
This might include your sex life, mental health, miscarriages, or fears. You’re allowed to feel vulnerable — and you’re allowed to ask for a break or clarification if it gets too much.

What Happens During the Appointment?

Medical History Review
The clinician will ask about:

• Menstrual cycle patterns

• Pregnancy history (yours and your family's)

• Contraceptive use

• Past STIs, infections, surgeries

• Any chronic illnesses, medications, or lifestyle factors

Basic Tests
Depending on where you are and your individual situation, you may have:

• Blood tests (e.g. hormone levels like FSH, LH, AMH, TSH)

• An ultrasound scan (to check ovaries and uterus)

• A semen analysis (if male partner present)

• BMI check and blood pressure

Next Steps Discussion
You may leave the appointment with:

• A plan for further tests

• A provisional diagnosis (e.g. PCOS, low sperm count)

• Advice on lifestyle changes (e.g. nutrition, supplements)

• Referrals for procedures like an HSG or HyCoSy

• Information about treatment options and waiting lists

Emotional Tips: It’s Okay to Feel Overwhelmed

This is a medical appointment, but it’s also personal. Many people feel anxious before and even tearful during — and that’s okay.

A few tips to cope emotionally:

• Bring a notebook and pen (it helps to write things down)

• Let your partner or friend take notes if you feel flustered

• Allow yourself downtime after – maybe a nice lunch or walk

• Don’t feel like you have to understand everything immediately

• Plan to revisit the conversation later when emotions settle

NHS vs Private: What’s the Difference?

If you're going via the NHS:

• You may need a GP referral first

• Appointments may be slower, with specific eligibility criteria for treatment

• Costs of initial consultations and tests are usually covered

• Waiting times for IVF treatment can vary widely across CCGs

If you're going privately:

• You can often self-refer

• Initial appointments usually cost between £200–£350

• Testing and treatment options are discussed more quickly

• You’ll be given a costed treatment plan for IVF, ICSI, etc.

📍 Related post: [Choosing the Right Clinic for You]
📍 Also helpful: [Fertility Tests: What to Expect and What They Mean]

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone

Walking into that first fertility appointment takes courage. It’s a moment that often marks the real beginning of your journey — not just physically, but emotionally and practically too. Know that thousands of others have sat in that same waiting room, feeling exactly what you’re feeling.

You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to start.