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Your First Step toward Parenthood
Infertility is the result of a disease (an interruption, cessation, or disorder of body functions, systems, or organs) of the male or female reproductive tract which prevents the conception of a child or the ability to carry a pregnancy to delivery as defined by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. It is recommended that you consult a reproductive endocrinologist if conception has not occurred after one year of unprotected intercourse for women under the age of 35, six months in women 35-39, anyone over the age of 40, or if there are any known problems that may be causing infertility.
At The Fertility Institute, we understand if you have been postponing that initial telephone call to schedule your appointment, because we know that what you are going through is deeply personal. You probably have many questions and concerns about our procedures, whether they are painful or time consuming and what costs are involved.
If you want to conceive, it’s important to overcome the emotional hurdles and the sooner you call our office, the sooner we can diagnose and treat the issues that are preventing conception. At the Fertility Institute, we are committed to providing you with the high quality and personalized care that we believe every patient deserves. So call us today and take that first step towards parenthood!
Your First Visit
Before you begin fertility care at The Fertility Institute, you will meet with one of our doctors to determine which services and treatments are right for you. This initial consultation consists of a conversation about your relevant medical history, family building goals and possible treatment options. Based on your history, age, and how aggressively you wish to pursue treatment, your doctor will order a number of diagnostic tests to evaluate both partners.
If possible, your first visit to The Fertility Institute should be attended by both partners, unless the person seeking treatment is single. Because infertility may be the result of many different conditions, to get a better understanding of your individual condition, we may conduct a full fertility assessment.
The fertility assessment will require comprehensive tests to evaluate possible causes of infertility. For the female, these tests may include a hormonal evaluation and the examination of the physical integrity and structure of the fallopian tubes and uterus. For males, a semen analysis may be required to determine male infertility. Your doctor will use these test results, your medical history and the history of any previous treatments, to determine what fertility options are available.
Before your visit is complete, our office will ensure that all your questions are answered and that you understand all of your treatment options. You can then speak to a financial counselor, who will review the costs associated with your treatment and any insurance benefits you may have and you will meet with the support staff who will help manage your care.
How to Prepare For Your First Appointment
Before you make the appointment it is recommended that you check into your insurance policy to determine what fertility treatments are covered. Make sure you bring some form of identification, your insurance card and a copy of the referral letter from your primary care doctor (if applicable).
We will also need copies of your medical records if you’ve had testing or prior treatment your OB/GYN or any prior treatments and copies of any relevant medical records or lab results. If you have them with you for your first appointment, your doctor can review them during your initial consultation.
During your initial consultation, you should be prepared to provide your doctor with details about your attempts to get pregnant, when you started trying to conceive and how often you’ve had intercourse, especially around the midpoint of your cycle — the time of ovulation. Finally, make a list of any medications, vitamins, herbs or other supplements you take. Include the doses and how often you take them.
Schedule an Appointment
At The Fertility Institute, our doctors understand that infertility is an emotionally trying experience. We are here to guide patients through the journey of fertility treatment, meeting both their physical and emotional needs along the way. If you have questions about fertility treatment or would like to learn more about our treatment methods, call The Fertility Institute today at (985) 892-7621 to make an appointment for a medical evaluation our offices in Baton Rouge, Metairie, Mandeville or New Orleans.
