Do you need a referral for IVF?

IVF involves ovarian stimulation, egg collection, fertilisation in a laboratory, and embryo transfer. A fertility team needs a clear medical history before planning these stages. A referral can share information about previous treatment, menstrual patterns, surgery, medicines, and test results. Some people contact a fertility clinic directly; others begin with a family doctor or gynaecologist. Local provider procedures and your route of care determine what paperwork is needed.

Call the clinic and ask whether you can self-refer and what must be supplied at the first visit. Gather reports from fertility investigations, a list of medicines and supplements, and details of previous pregnancies or treatments. If the clinic requests a referral, ask your doctor to include the reason for referral and relevant results. Do not stop prescribed medicines while arranging care unless the prescriber tells you to.

Book a review for persistent difficulty conceiving, absent periods, repeated pregnancy loss, severe pelvic pain, or a condition that could affect fertility. Seek urgent care for sudden severe pelvic or abdominal pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, or marked shortness of breath. Urgent symptoms should be assessed promptly rather than waiting for fertility paperwork.

Ask: Do you accept direct bookings? Which tests are needed before an IVF plan? Can you send my records to the fertility team? Who should I contact if my symptoms change while I wait?