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Fertility Clinic Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Get Expert Answers to Common Questions About Fertility Care

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Trying to get pregnant can be emotional and confusing, especially if it’s not happening as expected. There are many possible reasons:

  • Timing & Ovulation
  • Age and/or Underlying Medical Issue
  • Lifestyle Factors
  • Sex Frequency
  • Time Trying

I don’t know why I am not getting pregnant, what type of doctor should I make an appointment with?

Depending on your situation, you may need to see a different physician. Some common doctors to make an appointment with would be; Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB-GYN), Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist), and if you’re in a couple, A Urologist who specializes in male fertility can do a semen analysis and other tests.

The best person to ask if you’re “too old” to get pregnant is one our Reproductive Endocrinologist (Fertility Specialist) at FIRM. This is a medical doctor who specializes in fertility and age-related reproductive health.

Our physicians can evaluate your ovarian reserve (how many eggs you likely have left), check your hormone levels (like AMH, FSH, estradiol), talk to you about the chances of natural pregnancy vs. fertility treatments like IVF and any other questions.concerns you may have.

Knowing if and when you’re ovulating is key if you’re trying to get pregnant. Some of the most effective ways to tell if you’re ovulating are to: 

  • Track Your Menstrual Cycle, 
  • Use Ovulation Predictor Kits (OPKs), 
  • Track Cervical Mucus, 
  • Monitor Basal Body Temperature (BBT), 
  • Ovulation Tracking Apps, and at times physical signs however, this is not always reliable. 

What type of doctor can tell me if I am ovulating?

The best type of doctor to tell you if you’re ovulating is an Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB-GYN). This is the go-to doctor for anything related to your menstrual cycle, hormones, and fertility.

If I am not testing positive for ovulation, what type of doctor do I go to?

The best first step if you haven’t seen a specialist yet is to see your OB-GYN. They can confirm if you’re ovulating through blood tests or ultrasound. Check for common causes like PCOS, thyroid issues, hormone imbalances, and even prescribe basic medications to help trigger ovulation if appropriate.

If you’re wondering why you can’t get pregnant, you’re not alone—and there are clear steps you can take to find out what’s going on. Here’s a simple breakdown of the first steps to start getting answers:

  • Step 1: Track Your Cycle
  • Step 2: Make a Doctor’s Appointment
  • Step 3: Get Basic Fertility Tests
  • Step 4: Review Results & Make a Plan

There’s no one single fertility doctor who’s “best” for everyone — success rates depend a lot on things like your age, diagnosis, previous fertility history, and how clinics calculate/report their outcomes. But there are ways to compare clinics and doctors so you can find one that gives you a better chance.

If you’re under 35, try for 12 months of regular, unprotected sex. For ages 35-39, try for 6 months, and if you are older than 40, see a fertility specialist immediately and don’t wait months while trying.

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.

You can get checked out by a fertility doctor and get tested without paying for or starting fertility treatments right away. However, you will be responsible for whatever the co-pay is for that particular visit.

Can a fertility doctor tell me why I am not getting pregnant only and not have to have treatment?

Absolutely! A fertility doctor can evaluate you to help find out why you’re not getting pregnant without you needing to start any treatment right away.

Age has a significant impact on fertility after 35, and understanding this can help you make informed decisions about family planning and fertility care. Some factors that can happen after 35 are things such as egg quantity/quality decline, decreased monthly chance of pregnancy, increased risk of pregnancy complications, and fertility declining after 40.

What infertility doctor can help me get pregnant after age 35?

Allow us to help! By focusing on the “3 C’s” (care, cost, and convenience) the Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine (FIRM) has become the largest provider of infertility care in North Florida/South Georgia.

Is it expensive for women over aged 35 to get pregnant?

Yes, fertility treatments can be more expensive for women over 35, but understanding the costs and options can help you make informed decisions. This is why we always encourage you to speak candidly with your provider to find the best plan for you.

What can a fertility doctor do to help me get pregnant after 35?

A fertility doctor (reproductive endocrinologist) can offer a range of services to help women over 35 conceive, addressing the unique challenges that come with age. Comprehensive Evaluation, Diagnose Underlying Issues, Ovulation Induction, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Egg Quality and Quantity Assessment, Genetic testing, and Lifestyle and Health Guidance. 

Yes, some forms of birth control can temporarily delay your return to fertility, but for most people, this delay is short-term.

Yes. It might sound surprising, but fertility clinics do often use birth control pills as part of the fertility treatment process. Even though the goal is pregnancy, birth control is sometimes used to help prepare your body for treatment in a more controlled, effective way.

If you’re trying to understand your fertility or why you’re not getting pregnant, asking your doctor for the right tests is a smart first step. Here’s a list of key fertility tests to ask about (for both you and your partner, if applicable):

  1. Hormone Blood Tests (Cycle Day 3 or Early Cycle)
  2. Ultrasound
  3. Ovulation Testing
  4. HSG (Hysterosalpingogram)
  5. STI Testing
  6. Semen Analysis 

There are several healthcare options where you can get tested to find out why. Primary Care Provider (PCP) is a good first step. They can start with basic tests and refer you to a specialist if needed. A gynecologist (OB-GYN) specializes in reproductive health. They can do fertility assessments, hormone testing, and imaging (like ultrasounds).

Fertility Clinic / Reproductive Endocrinologist are specialists focused entirely on fertility and can provide a full range of testing and treatment options.

Yes — there are clinics and services that focus mainly on fertility testing/diagnosis rather than moving straight to treatment. Whether they’ll do only testing depends on the clinic, insurance coverage, and sometimes geography.

If you’re in Jacksonville, FL and want fertility testing + advice without going into IVF, there are clinics and services that can help. We would love to step in and partner with you and help here at FIRM! We have a list of quality specialists and staff that would love to help you.

Signs of low egg quality aren’t always obvious — especially since many people with low egg quality still have regular periods and no symptoms. However, there are some clinical signs, test results, and sometimes subtle body cues that can indicate lower egg quality or diminished ovarian reserve.

No — you do not need a partner to see a fertility doctor. Many people go alone to check their fertility, plan for the future, or explore options like egg freezing or solo conception. Fertility doctors work with single women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and anyone wanting to understand their reproductive health.

F.I.R.M. (Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine)

We are a choice for women and men including the LGBTQ community who seek advanced fertility treatment options.

No, you don’t have to see a fertility doctor — but it depends on how you plan to conceive.

Fertility testing helps you understand your reproductive health — even if you’re not ready to get pregnant right now. It gives you insight into how your body is working and what your options are.

HormoneWhat It DoesIdeal TimingWhat High/Low May Mean
AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone)Estimates your egg reserveAnytime🔽 Low = fewer eggs remaining (low ovarian reserve)🔼 High = possible PCOS or high egg reserve
FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)Helps grow follicles (eggs)Day 2–4 of cycle🔼 High = low ovarian reserve🔽 Low = may signal hormone imbalance
LH (Luteinizing Hormone)Triggers ovulationDay 2–4 & mid-cycle🔼 High on day 3 = possible PCOSMid-cycle surge = ovulation likely
Estradiol (E2)Estrogen that supports egg growthDay 2–4🔼 High = may mask high FSH or signal low egg quality🔽 Low = may indicate poor ovarian response
ProgesteroneConfirms ovulation occurred

Eat a balanced diet, manage stress, maintain a healthy weight, get enough sleep, and avoid over-exercising. Treat any medical issues like PCOS or thyroid problems. For persistent issues, consult a fertility doctor.

Yes! Depending on the cause, your doctor can help regulate your cycles with lifestyle changes, medications (like fertility drugs), or treatments for underlying issues—improving your chances of getting pregnant.

Several supplements may support fertility by improving hormone balance, egg quality, and overall reproductive health. 

  • Folic acid is essential for early pregnancy development and is recommended for anyone trying to conceive. 
  • Vitamin D supports hormone function and may help regulate cycles, especially in those with low levels. 
  • Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is often used to support egg quality, particularly for women over 35. 
  • Inositol can be helpful for those with PCOS by improving insulin sensitivity and promoting regular ovulation. 
  • Omega-3 fatty acids support hormone production and reduce inflammation, while iron may be important if you have a known deficiency. 

Always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

Some clinics offer fertility programs that include nutrition guidance, supplement plans, and health coaching. These services support hormone balance, cycle health, and overall fertility. Look for clinics with “integrative” or “functional” fertility care for more personalized, holistic support.

It depends on your body and any underlying conditions. Some people benefit from reducing or removing gluten, dairy, caffeine, or sugar — especially if they have PCOS, endometriosis, insulin resistance, or inflammation. However, not everyone needs to cut these foods completely. A balanced, anti-inflammatory diet that supports blood sugar and hormone health is most important. Talk to a fertility-savvy doctor or nutritionist before making big changes.

Diet can support egg quality by reducing inflammation, balancing hormones, and improving overall health. While it can’t reverse age-related decline, eating nutrient-rich foods and following a fertility-friendly diet may help create a healthier environment for your eggs.

At FIRM, we offer support with weight loss through nutrition counseling, lifestyle coaching, or referrals to specialists. A healthy weight can improve hormone balance and boost fertility. However, weight-loss is not the main goal.

No, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) or endometriosis does not automatically mean you’re infertile — but both conditions can affect fertility.

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