A consultation can feel like an exam you haven't revised for. The best thing I ever did was walk in with a written list. These are the questions I learned to ask. Take the ones that feel relevant; your clinic is the right place to answer them for your situation.
About your results
- What do my test results tell us, and is anything still missing?
- How do my results affect the options you'd suggest?
- Can I have copies of my results to keep?
About the treatment plan
- Which treatment plan are you suggesting, and why?
- What happens if I respond more or less than expected?
- How many eggs or embryos would you hope for, and what happens to any that aren't used?
- How many embryos might be transferred, and what are the risks of each option?
About costs and add-ons
- What is the full cost, including medication, scans, freezing and storage?
- Are any add-ons being suggested? What is the evidence for them? The HFEA add-ons rating is a helpful starting point.
- What happens to the cost if the cycle is cancelled?
About the clinic
- Who will be my main point of contact?
- Who do I call out of hours?
- How quickly can I expect replies to questions?
About support
- Do you offer access to a fertility counsellor?
- Is there anything you'd like me to do, or avoid, during treatment?
A few gentle tips
Put your three most important questions at the top, in case time runs out. Ask if you can record the conversation, or bring someone to take notes. And if you leave with new questions, that's normal: write them down and ask how best to follow up.
If you'd like help organising your questions before a big appointment, that's exactly what the IVF Clarity Session is for. You can also download my free appointment question checklist.
This article shares personal experience and general information. It isn't medical advice; please speak to your clinic about your own care.