In this week's episode, Maria discusses the important questions you should ask your fertility clinic during your initial consultation. These questions will help you make informed decisions about your treatment. For additional support, download Maria's free self-advocating guide at fitnessfertility.com/freeresources.
In this week's episode, Maria discusses the important questions you should ask your fertility clinic during your initial consultation. These questions will help you make informed decisions about your treatment. For additional support, download Maria's free self-advocating guide at fitnessfertility.com/freeresources.
Remember, these questions serve as a starting point, and you may have additional inquiries based on your unique circumstances. Don't hesitate to seek further clarification from the clinic to make informed decisions about your fertility treatment.
Maria, the PT who's on a mission to help women and couples achieve their baby dreams!
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DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.
Welcome to Fertility Focus, this weekly minisode is designed to help you improve your fertility. Every Tuesday I will be focusing on actionable steps to help you take control of your own ttc journey.
I’m Maria, I’m a personal trainer specialising in fertility. Whether you are preparing for IVF, managing your BMI or ready to throw everything you have at your own trying to conceive journey, tune in each week to hear more.
In this week’s show I am talking about the questions you should ask your clinic when you are having your initial, pre treatment consultation. It can be difficult knowing what to ask, especially if it is your first time having fertility treatment so here are my five key questions to ask your clinic. Also, for even more support, make sure you download my free self advocating guide from fitnessfertility.com/freeresources
1. The first question you need to ask is: what fertility treatment options are available to me, and which one is the most suitable for my specific circumstances?
Understanding the different treatment options available to you, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), ICSI, or fertility medications, will help you make an informed decision about the most appropriate course of action. Part of the decision comes down to where the fertility issue is i.e. what the diagnosis is. Is it unexplained, male factor, endometriosis, PCOS? All of these things will have an effect on the treatment that is right for you so it is important that you understand which specific treatment you are having but also why you are having that treatment.
2. The next key question is: What is the success rate of the recommended treatment option for someone with my fertility concerns?
Knowing the success rates of the proposed treatment can give you a realistic expectation of the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy, and by success rates, be sure to ask about their live birth rates, not just their pregnancy rates. Unfortunately, not all pregnancies end up with a live birth so it is important to fully understand what the data says and what you are asking. Also, ask about success rates for individuals in a similar age range and with similar fertility issues. Age and fertility issue can make a huge difference to the statistics.
3. Now that you know what treatment you are having, you need to ask about the potential risks, side effects, and complications associated with the recommended treatment.
Understanding the possible side effects, both short-term and long-term, will help you make an informed decision and be prepared for any potential challenges. Ask about things like OHSS (ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome), how the medication will make you feel and not just your physical health but your mental health too. If you are going to be taking medication that needs to be injected, make sure you ask about that too. Do they teach you how to use the needle? What should you do if it doesn’t go to plan? What should you expect from the injection? All of these questions are important but should also help you feel more in control, and put your mind at ease.
4. Unfortunately, IVF is not always free. So, you need to ask: What are the financial costs involved in the treatment, including consultation fees, medications, procedures, and any additional tests or services?
Fertility treatments can be expensive, so it's crucial to have a clear understanding of the financial implications. Inquire about the total costs involved, including any additional fees or unexpected expenses, to ensure you can plan your finances accordingly. You may also need to clarify if the package includes any add ons, how much they cost or if everything is included. Just be very clear on every detail that you are paying for so there are no nasty surprises along the way.
5. Finally, there are some things you can do to support your treatment cycle. So the last of my five questions is: What are the lifestyle changes or additional measures I need to take during the treatment process?
You may need to make during the treatment, such as dietary changes, exercise recommendations, medication schedules, or stress management techniques. Understanding the necessary steps and commitments involved will help you optimize your chances of success. IVF can be very stressful so if there is anything you can do naturally, that will support your IVF journey, it is definitely worth doing.
Remember, these questions are a starting point, and you may have additional inquiries specific to your unique circumstances. Don't hesitate to ask the clinic for any further clarification or information that will help you make an informed decision about your fertility treatment.
Outro
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