Will I get a diagnosis on day one?

Not usually. Your doctor will need test results to find out what’s going on. The first visit is more about understanding and planning.

Do I need to fast for the appointment?

Not unless your clinic specifically says so. Most fertility tests don’t need fasting.

How long will the appointment take?

It may take 45 minutes to an hour, sometimes more if tests are done the same day.

What if I’ve already done some tests?

Bring the reports along. Your doctor can build on them instead of repeating everything.

Your First Fertility Appointment: What to Expect and Prepare

Going to a fertility clinic for the first time can feel a bit strange and new, like going somewhere you’ve never been before. You may have waited months (or even years) to take this step. You may be full of questions, or you may feel totally blank. Both are okay. This is a safe space, a place where you and your doctor start piecing together the answers you’ve been looking for.

What to Expect at Your First Fertility Appointment

A long chat with your doctor
This is the biggest and most important thing that happens on your first visit. Your doctor will want to understand your story. Expect questions like:

How long have you been trying to conceive?
Do you have regular periods?
Any history of miscarriage, endometriosis, or PCOS?
Any past surgeries or infections?
What’s your general health like?

If you have a partner, their medical history matters too. The doctor may ask about lifestyle factors, smoking, alcohol, stress, sleep, work shifts, and even diet.

Tip: Be open. This is a judgment-free zone. Your answers help your doctor figure out the right path for you.

Review of any previous reports

If you've had blood tests, ultrasounds, or semen analysis done before, bring those along. It can save time and avoid repeating tests.

Some initial tests might be recommended

Don't worry, the tests don’t all happen on day one. The doctor usually explains and helps plan them according to your cycle. The doctor listens to your story, how old you are, what you’ve been feeling, and what’s happened before, and then shares what could help next.
For the uterus/ovaries:

A transvaginal ultrasound to check follicles and the shape of the uterus
Blood tests to check hormone levels (like AMH, FSH, LH, prolactin, TSH)

For the tubes:

HSG (hysterosalpingogram) or SSG (sonosalpingography) to see if the small tubes (fallopian tubes) inside your body are open and working properly
For the male partner (if applicable):

Semen analysis to check sperm count, motility, and shape

Understanding next steps

Once your doctor has enough details, they might talk about possible treatment paths. But remember: they won’t rush you. Most fertility journeys are step-by-step.
This might include:

Timed intercourse
Ovulation tracking or medication
IUI (Intrauterine insemination)
IVF (In-vitro fertilisation), if more support is needed

How You Can Prepare for the First Appointment

Here are a few small things that can help you feel more in control:
Bring past medical records: This includes:

Blood reports
Hormone levels
Scans or imaging
Prescriptions or surgery notes

Know your period cycle dates: Even if your periods are irregular, try to recall the date of your last period and how long your cycles usually are

List down questions: When you’re anxious, it’s easy to forget your doubts. Write them down. Some people ask:

Why am I not conceiving?
What tests will be done and why?
How long do we try before moving to treatments?
What lifestyle changes should I make?

Take a support person along (if possible): Whether it’s your partner, sibling, or friend, having someone you trust can make you feel stronger
Stay open, not overwhelmed: This is just the beginning. You don’t need all the answers right now. It’s okay to learn as you go

What Your Doctor Wants You to Know

There is no “perfect” age or timeline. Everybody is different
You’re not alone. Millions of people are walking the same path
No question is silly. Ask everything
Being kind to your body and mind helps more than you realise

Your first fertility appointment might feel like a big, emotional step, but it’s also the beginning of clarity, care, and possibility. You don’t need to walk in with all the answers. Just come with your questions, your honesty, and maybe a little notebook. You don’t have to get everything right on the first visit. It’s just a chance to talk and begin the journey together. With the right support, you and your doctor will start building a path forward, one step at a time. Take a deep breath. You’ve taken the first one already.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. Please speak to a licensed fertility specialist for personalised advice and medical care.

FAQs on Your First Fertility Appointment: What Happens and How to Prepare

Will I get a diagnosis on day one?
Not usually. Your doctor will need test results to find out what’s going on. The first visit is more about understanding and planning.
Do I need to fast for the appointment?
Not unless your clinic specifically says so. Most fertility tests don’t need fasting.
How long will the appointment take?

It may take 45 minutes to an hour, sometimes more if tests are done the same day.
What if I’ve already done some tests?
Bring the reports along. Your doctor can build on them instead of repeating everything.

Your First Fertility Appointment: What Happens and How to Prepare

That first fertility appointment can feel big. You might be nervous, overwhelmed, or not sure what to expect. This guide is here to gently walk you through what usually happens during your first visit and how you can feel more ready and supported through it.

In this article: