This guide answers those questions to help you walk into treatment with clarity and confidence. By understanding what lies ahead—medically, emotionally, and financially—you can begin your journey with peace of mind.
What to Expect During Your First Consultation
Your first visit is about understanding your unique situation, not rushing into treatment.
- Medical history: Your doctor will ask about your menstrual cycles, previous pregnancies, medical conditions, and lifestyle factors.
- Partner’s history: Male factors account for about half of fertility challenges, so assessing sperm health is equally important.
- Discussion of goals: Your doctor will want to understand your timeline, whether you are trying to conceive soon or considering preserving fertility for the future. They will also consider any cultural, ethical, or personal preferences that may shape your treatment plan.
Many couples describe this first meeting as reassuring. It focuses on creating a personalized roadmap, so you leave with a clear next step—even if you don’t yet have all the answers.
Fertility Assessment 101: Key Tests Before Treatment
Before treatment begins, it’s essential to understand your baseline fertility health. These are the most common tests:
For Women
- Blood tests: Measure hormone levels such as AMH, FSH, LH, and estradiol to assess ovarian reserve and cycle function.
- Ultrasound scan: Evaluates the ovaries, counts follicles, and checks for uterine concerns such as fibroids or polyps.
- Other screenings: May include thyroid function, vitamin D levels, or infectious disease testing, depending on your needs.
For Men
- Semen analysis: Measures sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape).
- Hormone tests:Conducted if sperm results are abnormal, to better understand underlying causes.
For Couples
- Genetic screening: Optional but increasingly common. Identifies if either partner carries genes for inherited conditions.
- Health review: Evaluates chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or autoimmune disorders that may affect fertility or pregnancy.
Think of this stage as mapping the terrain. The more information your team has, the better they can customize a treatment plan for you.
Timeline of an IVF Cycle: Step by Step
Patients often wonder, “How long will IVF take from start to finish?” While timelines can vary, here’s a typical overview:
Week 1: Preparation & Baseline Tests
Blood work and ultrasounds are done to check your ovaries before starting stimulation medications.
Weeks 2–3: Ovarian Stimulation
Daily hormone injections help multiple eggs grow. You’ll visit the clinic every few days for monitoring through ultrasounds and blood tests.
Week 3–4: Egg Retrieval
A short procedure under sedation is done to collect the eggs. Most patients go home the same day.
Week 4: Fertilization and Embryo Culture
In the lab, eggs and sperm are combined. Embryos are monitored closely over the next three to five days.
Week 4–5: Embryo Transfer
A carefully selected embryo is placed into the uterus during a quick, usually painless procedure. Extra embryos can be frozen for later use.
Week 6: The Two-Week Wait
Hormone support continues, and a pregnancy test is done about two weeks after transfer.
From start to finish, one IVF cycle typically takes four to six weeks, though some patients may take breaks between steps or require multiple cycles.
Preparing Your Body & Mind
Fertility treatment is not only about medication. It’s about creating the best possible environment for conception and emotional resilience.
Nutrition & Supplements
- Eat a balanced diet rich in leafy greens, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.
- Supplements such as folic acid (for women) and zinc (for men) may be recommended.
- Limit alcohol, caffeine, and processed foods.
Lifestyle Habits
- Stop smoking, including vaping, as it affects both egg and sperm quality.
- Engage in regular exercise, but avoid overexertion.
- Maintain a healthy weight, as being underweight or overweight can impact fertility outcomes.
Emotional Wellness
The emotional side of treatment can be as challenging as the physical process.
- Counselling: Many clinics offer fertility-focused counseling.
- Support groups: Connecting with others can help reduce feelings of isolation.
- Self-care practices: Yoga, mindfulness, or journaling can help manage anxiety and stress.
One patient shared, “I prepared my mind the same way I prepared my body. I couldn’t control the outcome, but I could control how I supported myself along the way.”
Cost Transparency: Understanding Fees and Add-Ons
For many patients, cost is one of the biggest concerns. Fertility treatments can be a significant investment, but clear information helps you plan ahead and reduce stress.
Core Costs
- Initial consultation and fertility tests
- Medications for ovarian stimulation
- Egg retrieval procedure
- Fertilisation and embryo culture
- Embryo transfer
Possible Add-Ons
- ICSI for sperm-related challenges
- PGT-A or PGT-M for genetic testing
- Embryo freezing and storage
- Additional lab techniques such as assisted hatching
Other Factors
- Success often requires more than one cycle. Ask about package pricing, financing options, or insurance coverage if available.
When clinics provide a detailed cost breakdown, you can make informed decisions and avoid unexpected surprises. It’s not just about knowing the numbers—it’s about reducing financial stress during a deeply personal journey.
Questions to Ask Before You Begin
- What tests will we need before starting treatment?
- How long will the process take, and how many clinic visits should I expect?
- What costs are included, and what counts as an add-on?
- What emotional support services do you provide?
- If this cycle doesn’t work, what are the next steps?
Final Thoughts
Setting realistic expectations is one of the most empowering things you can do before beginning fertility treatment. When you understand what lies ahead—from the first consultation and initial tests to the IVF timeline, preparation strategies, and financial considerations—you walk into the process informed and ready.
At GenPrime, we believe fertility care is built on partnership and trust. That partnership begins with clear information, compassionate guidance, and support at every stage of your journey.