Consultation

Your initial visit for an in vitro fertilization treatment cycle will be a consultation with one of the participating physicians. At the time of this visit you should bring with you (or have already forwarded) the following information:

1. Annual examination and pap smear within past year
2. Women > 34 years old: mammogram
3. Semen analysis performed within past year
4. HIV I and HIV II, Hepatitis B surface antigen and Hepatitis C antibody testing
5. Copies of all previous gynecologic evaluations and treatments
6. Copies of all infertility evaluations and treatments for male and female

The first four of these can be performed or scheduled at the time of your consultation.

The consultation will include a review of your previous medical history and a thorough discussion of the in vitro fertilization process, including specific instructions for your cycle. Information on the medications to be used will be available.

If an annual examination, semen analysis, or blood work is required, it can be done immediately after your consultation. It is important for you to indicate these needs at the time when you schedule your consultation. Arrangements can also be made for a mammogram to be performed on women older than 34 years.

If your previous infertility evaluation has not included a hysterosalpingogram (X-ray of the uterus and fallopian tubes) an ultrasound evaluation of your uterus will be scheduled. This ultrasound is done cycle day 5, 6, 7, or 8.

You may find it helpful to write down any questions that you have before to your consultation. Each physician tries to allow ample time to review questions and answer concerns.

For a summary of IVF treatments, medications and procedures, click here.