What Happens at Your First NHS Fertility Appointment?

You’ve finally got your NHS fertility appointment date. After months (maybe years) of waiting, hoping, and Googling at 2 AM, it’s happening. But now, as the day approaches, you’re wondering: What will they ask? What tests will they do? Will I leave with answers—or just more questions?

So, what happens at your first NHS fertility appointment? At fertie, we get it. Starting this process can feel overwhelming—but knowing what to expect can help ease anxiety and give you back a sense of control. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to help you feel informed and empowered before your first NHS fertility consultation.

Preparing for Your NHS Fertility Appointment

Before your appointment, it’s helpful to gather as much information as you can about your health and fertility history. This will save time and help your specialist understand the full picture.

Here’s what to bring (or think about):

• Your menstrual cycle history (regularity, symptoms, length)

• Any past pregnancies or miscarriages

• Details of any previous fertility testing or treatments

• Your lifestyle factors, like smoking, alcohol, exercise, BMI

• A list of questions or concerns you want to ask—write them down!

Tip: If you have a partner attending, they’ll be asked about their health history too, so it’s good for both of you to be prepared.

What Happens During the Appointment?

1. A Detailed Medical History

Your fertility specialist will ask about your overall health, how long you’ve been trying to conceive, and any known conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, or thyroid issues. If you have a partner, they’ll be asked about their health and fertility history as well.

2. Basic Fertility Tests

You’ll usually have a few key tests early on:

• Blood tests to check your hormone levels, including FSH, LH, and AMH (which gives an idea of your ovarian reserve).

• An ultrasound scan to assess your uterus and ovaries—checking for things like fibroids, cysts, or the number of follicles on your ovaries (antral follicle count).

• Semen analysis if you have a male partner, to assess sperm count, motility, and morphology.

These tests give a starting point to understand why you may be struggling to conceive.

3. Next Steps & Possible Referrals

After your tests (some may happen at your first appointment, others later), your specialist will discuss:

• Lifestyle recommendations (like weight management or stopping smoking)

• Whether you need further diagnostic tests, such as an HSG (hysterosalpingogram) to check your fallopian tubes

• What treatment options might be suitable—ranging from egg freezing to IUI or IVF

Note: NHS criteria for funded treatments like IVF can vary depending on where you live in the UK.

What Happens After the First Appointment?

This can vary. Sometimes you’ll leave with a clear plan, and other times you’ll need to wait for test results before knowing the next step.

If IVF is recommended, you may be added to a waiting list—how long depends on your location and clinic capacity. Some people wait a few months, while others wait longer.

If you don’t qualify for NHS-funded treatment or want to explore private options, your specialist can discuss those too.

Quick FAQs

How long does the appointment last?
Most first consultations are around 45 minutes to an hour. If you have lots of questions, write them down in advance so you don’t forget!

Will they do tests on the same day?
Sometimes. Blood tests may be done straight away, but others (like ultrasounds or HSGs) may be scheduled for another visit.

Final Thoughts

Your first NHS fertility appointment is a big step—and it’s okay to feel nervous. But remember, this is the beginning of finding answers and getting support.

At fertie, we’re here to empower you with knowledge, expert guidance, and community. You don’t have to navigate this alone.

👉 Want more help preparing for fertility tests and treatments? Explore our Fertility 101 course for in-depth guidance, checklists, and expert advice.

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Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.