Infertility and pregnancy planning
Symptoms, assessment, options and preparation for your visit.
Illustrative imageDifficulty becoming pregnant may require assessment of both partners. Timing depends on age, duration of trying and known health conditions.
Symptoms and starting the conversation
When symptoms started, how often they recur and their effect on everyday life matter. The examples below are topics you can discuss; they do not establish a diagnosis on their own.
How is assessment approached?
Ovulation, the uterus and tubes and, where applicable, male factors are assessed together. Previous pregnancies, medication and tests can be shared; ovarian reserve tests alone do not determine pregnancy chances.
Which options are discussed?
Initial assessment, investigation of causes and suitable treatment or referral options are discussed. The consultation clarifies where investigations and treatment will take place, any referrals needed and follow-up.
Risks, limitations and follow-up
No method is assumed to suit everyone. If medication or a procedure is considered, assessment includes health history, possible pregnancy and current medication. Discuss potential side effects, alternatives and follow-up. Worsening or new symptoms are reasons to review the plan.
Preparing for your visit
Note when symptoms started, their triggers and their effect on your life. Bring available examination or operation reports and a medication list. Prepare questions about options, the purpose of tests, benefits and risks. Do not enter health records into appointment or contact forms.
Assessment involves both partners
Assessment includes sperm as well as ovulation, tubes and the womb. Age, time trying and known risks affect when to seek help; irregular ovulation or known disease may justify earlier assessment.
One normal test does not exclude every cause. Ovarian reserve tests such as AMH do not by themselves determine the chance of natural conception. The sequence of investigation and care should reflect the question each test can answer.
Frequently asked questions
Is only the female partner assessed?
Assessment of both partners is needed where applicable. Male factors and female factors may be considered within the same plan.
Can I diagnose myself using this page?
No. Similar symptoms may have different causes. This information helps you prepare for consultation; individual diagnosis and care require assessment.
Make your plan clear.
- Note when symptoms began and how often they recur.
- Ask the purpose of any investigation and how the result changes the plan.
- Clarify how results will be communicated and when follow-up is due.
Follow-up, care and return to everyday activities depend on assessment and the approach chosen. Before leaving, clarify the next step and how to contact the clinic.
Prepare your own list.
Select topics, write your notes in the fields below and download your personal preparation list as a PDF.
Your notes stay on this page; they are not sent to the clinic or saved. They are cleared when you close the page. The PDF may contain personal information; keep it on your own device.