Many health insurance plans require a referral from your primary care doctor or OB-GYN before you can see a fertility specialist. This helps them approve coverage for visits and treatments. Some insurance plans and clinics allow you to self-refer, meaning you can make an appointment directly with a fertility specialist without a referral.

If you’re paying privately, you can usually book an appointment without a referral.

Do I have to have treatments with my regular doctor before I can make an appointment with a fertility doctor?

No, prior treatments aren’t always required, but insurance rules might affect this. You can often book a fertility specialist appointment directly to get started sooner.