Taking the first step.
If you've been trying to conceive without success, reaching out to a fertility specialist isn't always easy. We understand — and we'll meet you wherever you are in the process, starting with a conversation.
Where do I start with fertility care? Start with a consultation. At RMA of Michigan, you'll meet with a physician, a nurse, and a financial counselor who review your history, answer your questions, and explain what testing may help. If you've had testing already, send your records ahead so your physician can review them beforehand.
Where do I start?
You've been trying to conceive for months, maybe years, and you're concerned something may be wrong. Taking the step to contact a reproductive endocrinologist isn't always an easy one.
At RMA of Michigan, we understand that the word "infertility" can feel frightening, and that you may arrive with a hundred questions and concerns. That's exactly what a first consultation is for.
Many patients have already raised concerns with a primary care physician or OB-GYN before coming to us, and some have had initial testing done. Wherever you are in that process — testing behind you or nothing yet — you're in the right place to begin.
Your first steps, one at a time
Beginning fertility care follows a straightforward path. Your specifics are individualized to you.
Reach Out
Contact our office to schedule an initial consultation. There's no testing or preparation required to make that first call.
Send Your Records
If you've had prior testing or treatment, send your medical records about a week before your consultation so your physician can review them.
Your Consultation
Meet with a physician, nurse, and financial counselor. Ask questions, review your history, and talk through what may come next.
Evaluation & Plan
If testing hasn't been done, you'll complete an evaluation afterward. Your physician then discusses which treatment approach suits your situation.
The testing that often comes first
Before or after your consultation, an evaluation helps your physician understand what's happening. These are the tests most commonly ordered.
Bloodwork
Blood tests check hormone levels, which help your physician understand ovulation, ovarian reserve, and other factors that affect fertility.
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)
An imaging test that confirms whether the fallopian tubes are open, and shows the shape of the uterus. It's done in a short outpatient visit.
Semen Analysis
If sperm is part of your family-building plan — from a partner or a donor — a semen analysis checks count, movement, and shape.
Who you'll meet, and what you'll talk about
At your initial consultation you'll meet three people who become your primary points of contact if you move forward with treatment. Come with your questions — this can be an overwhelming process, and asking is encouraged.
- Your physician — reviews your history and test results, and discusses which treatment options may suit your situation.
- Your nurse — walks you through what treatment involves day to day, and stays with you throughout.
- Your financial counselor — reviews coverage, costs, and the financial options that may apply to you.
- Your questions — bring every one. Nothing is too small, and this is what the visit is for.
Starting out, answered
Do I need testing before my first visit?
No. If you've had testing through your primary care physician or OB-GYN, send those records ahead. If you haven't had any testing, you'll begin with an evaluation after your consultation — either way, the consultation is the right first step.
Who will I meet at my consultation?
You'll meet a physician, a nurse, and a financial counselor. If you pursue treatment with us, these are the people who become your primary points of contact along the way.
What treatment will I need?
That depends on your evaluation and history. For many patients the first approach is intrauterine insemination (IUI) with ovulation medications. For others, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is the more suitable starting point. Your physician will talk through what fits your situation.
How do I send my medical records?
Send your records to our office about a week before your consultation so your physician has time to review them. Contact our office and our team will confirm the best way to get them to us.
Can my partner come with me?
Absolutely. A partner is welcome to join you, and we support individuals and families of all structures — including single parents by choice and LGBTQ+ family building.
I'm nervous about starting. Is that normal?
Very. The word "infertility" can feel frightening, and reaching out takes courage. Our team is here to provide the support and information you need, and to make the process feel as manageable as it can be.