The Prelude Connect App is now available for all patients! Prelude Connect App
The Prelude Connect App is now available for all patients! Prelude Connect App
And that’s where we meet you. Support for your fertility journey begins before you even visit our clinic — let’s walk through how to make an appointment, give a high-level look at who we help, and share family-building knowledge from our experts.
There are two ways to book an initial fertility consult with PCRM – through medical doctor’s referral or by self-referral. Qualifying referrals include ones from your primary care doctor, an OB-GYN, a nurse practitioner, a walk-in doctor or a virtual medical doctor’s. Patients considering self-pay, should read more about that option here.
The timing for seeking the assistance of a fertility specialist can vary from person to person and situation to situation. Typically, for heterosexual couples under the age of 35, it is recommended to consult a fertility specialist after trying to conceive for a year. For heterosexual couples aged 35 and above, the recommendation is to seek specialist help after six months of trying. However, there are situations in which it may be advisable to consult a fertility specialist sooner. These situations include having a known or suspected reproductive disorder, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), being a single aspiring parent, being part of a same-sex partnership, or having an interest in fertility preservation for social or medical reasons.
It's important to remember that these are general guidelines, and individual circumstances can vary, so consulting with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance is always a wise step.
Because egg quality and quantity decrease with age — with a significant drop-off in your mid-30s — we recommended talking a fertility specialist about egg freezing in your late 20s to early 30s. As with any fertility procedure, talking to a doctor about your current situation and long-term goals is important for determining a timeline. Learn more about egg freezing at PCRM.
A fertility specialist, also known as a reproductive endocrinologist, is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating fertility issues. They help individuals and couples overcome challenges related to conception and pregnancy. Fertility specialists conduct various tests to identify underlying causes of infertility, provide personalized treatment plans, which may include assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF), and offer support throughout the process to increase the chances of successful pregnancy. A fertility specialist also plays a crucial role in assisting LGBTQ+ individuals and couples with family building.
An OB-GYN (Obstetrician-Gynecologist) is a medical doctor specializing in women's reproductive health, general gynecological care, prenatal care, pregnancy, and childbirth. A fertility specialist is a subspecialist within obstetrics and gynecology. They focus specifically on diagnosing and treating infertility issues. Fertility specialists have specialized training in reproductive medicine, assisting individuals and couples with fertility problems by addressing complex reproductive disorders.
Selecting the right fertility clinic is pivotal for a seamless family-building journey. While many patients focus on a clinic's success rates, this metric alone isn't sufficient. Success rates don't always reflect individual chances of success. When choosing a clinic, it's crucial to assess various aspects comprehensively. Look for a clinic that employs evidence-based methods and cutting-edge technologies, offering personalized care tailored to your unique situation. Practical considerations, such as clinic locations and costs, are also vital. Equally important is finding a clinic that understands you and provides compassionate guidance and support. Opt for a clinic that creates an inclusive, warm environment and addresses all your concerns, ensuring a positive experience.
Planning to self-pay for fertility care is a significant decision and open communication with your fertility clinic along with careful financial planning are both key to the process. It’s also crucial to understand the full breakdown of expenses, including consultation fees, tests, procedures, and medications. Additionally, exploring financing options and loans designed for fertility treatments can potentially help you figure out how to manage the costs. Don't hesitate to ask our financial coordinators about any available discounts or financial assistance programs.
During your first fertility consultation with PCRM, your doctor will discuss your medical history and reproductive health in detail. Our referral team will coordinate any relevant testing prior to first consultation so that during this meeting, your physician can provide the most wholesome diagnostic and treatment plan. This takes place before your first consultation.
You'll have the chance to discuss concerns and ask questions. Based on the evaluation, the specialist will explain potential causes of infertility, propose suitable treatments, and create a personalized plan. It's a crucial step in understanding your fertility and planning your family-building journey.
Being organized and ready to discuss your situation will help your fertility specialist assess your needs effectively; be prepared by gathering all your essential information for your first fertility appointment ahead of time. Compile your medical history, including past pregnancies, surgeries, and existing health conditions. Note down details about your menstrual cycle, lifestyle factors, and any attempts made to conceive. Prepare a list of questions or concerns you have about fertility. Additionally, bring your partner's medical history if applicable.
PCRM sees patients from around the globe. Patients would need a self referred consultation; our referral coordinators will then order the appropriate blood tests, ultrasounds, sperm tests, etc.
