The Preliminary Visit

In Vitro Fertilization Program

After all requested records and forms have been received, a multipurpose visit will be arranged to exchange pertinent information between you and the IVF team. This visit may consume the better part of a day.Please plan your schedule with this in mind. Before attempting IVF it is important to identify and treat, when possible, any problems in either partner that might diminish potential for success.

Activities included in the preliminary visit are as follows:

1. Review of your infertility records.

2. One of our health psychologists will be scheduled to meet with all couples who will use donated eggs, sperm or embryos. They are also available to be scheduled to meet with any couples who wish to explore emotional issues or who seek professional support during the course of treatment. This appointment needs to be requested in advance.

3. You will meet with an IVF nurse to receive detailed information and a sample IVF Treatment Cycle Schedule.

4. The IVF financial counselor will meet with you to discuss fee schedules, insurance and payment procedures.

5. Preliminary evaluation of the female partner may include the following:

a. A complete history and physical examination
b. Uterine sounding (measurement of the uterine cavity)
c. Pap smear (if current local results not available)
d. Blood tests (if required testing for rubella and infectious disease testing is not done prior to this appointment)
e. Pelvic ultrasound

6. An appointment for the male partner will be scheduled in the Reproductive Testing Laboratory. Please refer to “Evaluation of the Male Partner” section for additional information.

It is often not necessary to repeat testing that has been done locally. Sending us your local records prior to your appointment will reduce duplication of effort. If additional testing is required, arrangements for this will be discussed at the initial visit or in a follow-up letter. After testing and/or other treatment is completed you will be advised about when to proceed with IVF-ET. If no testing is needed, you may be scheduled to start medications for your first IVF treatment cycle within one to three months. Scheduling of donor oocyte cycles will depend upon donor availability.