read next
What to expect from your first IVF medication order
You've booked your first appointment with a reproductive endocrinologist. That's a significant step — and if you're feeling a mix of relief and anxiety about what comes next, that's completely normal.
What most people don't realize is that the appointment itself is just the starting line. What happens in the days and weeks after — the tests, the results, the treatment plan, the prescriptions — is where the real journey begins. This guide covers that part. For a full breakdown of what happens during the consultation itself, we've covered that separately.
"The appointment answers the question of where you are. Everything after it is about where you're going."
After the appointment
The timeline from consultation to treatment
Most patients leave their first RE appointment with more information than they expected — and more next steps than they anticipated. Here's what that path typically looks like.
1
Step 1 · Days 1–14
Diagnostic testing
Bloodwork to check hormone levels (FSH, AMH, estradiol), a transvaginal ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve, and potentially a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) to check your fallopian tubes. If a partner is involved, a semen analysis is typically ordered too. See our guide to tests before IVF.
Plan for about 2 weeks
2
Step 2 · 1–2 weeks after testing
Results review and treatment recommendation
Your RE reviews results and recommends a path. This is when you'll hear whether IUI or IVF makes more sense for your situation, or whether simpler interventions come first.
Your treatment path is chosen
3
Step 3 · Do this before your protocol arrives
Insurance and financial planning
Fertility insurance coverage varies dramatically by state and plan. Our guide to financing fertility medications and understanding IVF costs are good starting points. You can also request a free price quote from Prima before committing.
Do this before your protocol arrives
4
Step 4 · Sent directly to Prima
Your protocol and prescriptions
Once a treatment plan is agreed, your RE writes a protocol — a precise schedule of medications, doses, and timing. Your clinic sends this directly to Prima. We handle everything from there.
Clinic sends to Prima directly
5
Step 5 · Same-day NYC · Next-day nationwide
Medications arrive, cycle begins
Prima verifies your insurance within 24 hours, applies savings programs automatically, and ships with temperature-controlled packaging. Your cycle starts when your clinic gives the green light.
Same-day NYC · Next-day nationwide
Be prepared
Questions worth asking at your first appointment
Most patients wish they'd asked more. These are the questions that matter most — tap each to see why it's important.
What does my AMH level actually mean?
Ovarian reserve is the single most important number
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is the most reliable indicator of your ovarian reserve — how many eggs you likely have remaining. Your doctor will interpret it in context, but it's worth asking what your specific number means for your recommended path and timeline. A low AMH doesn't mean IVF won't work. It does mean time matters more.
Should we start with IUI or go straight to IVF?
The answer affects your timeline and costs significantly
Some REs default to IUI as a first step because it's less invasive and less expensive. Others recommend going straight to IVF depending on age, diagnosis, and how long you've been trying. Ask your doctor directly why they're recommending one over the other — and what the success rates look like for your specific situation. Our breakdown of IUI vs. IVF covers the key differences.
What will my medications likely cost?
Medication cost is often the biggest surprise
Fertility medications for a single IVF cycle typically range from $3,000 to $7,000 out of pocket — separate from clinic fees. Ask your RE what a typical protocol looks like for someone in your situation, then request a free medication price quote from Prima before your cycle begins. We'll verify your insurance and apply any manufacturer savings programs before you commit to anything.
Which pharmacy do you recommend — and why?
Your pharmacy choice matters more than most patients realize
Many clinics work directly with specialty pharmacies that have established relationships for protocol coordination, prior authorizations, and mid-cycle adjustments. Ask whether Prima is a preferred partner at your clinic — and if so, give them our details so your prescriptions come directly to us. If not, see how it works at Prima and bring it up with your care coordinator.
What lifestyle changes would you recommend?
Small changes can meaningfully affect outcomes
Diet, stress, sleep, and supplements all play a role in fertility outcomes. Ask your RE what specifically applies to your situation. Prima partners with a registered dietitian specializing in fertility nutrition, hormone tracking, and therapists who specialize in fertility — because the whole picture matters.
Your checklist
Before your appointment — what to bring
Check each item off as you prepare. The more you bring, the less time you spend repeating tests you've already done.
0 of 7 ready
0%
Previous bloodwork or hormone panels (FSH, AMH, thyroid, etc.) — if you've had them done
Menstrual cycle history — dates, regularity, flow patterns, and any symptoms you've noticed
List of current medications and supplements — include everything, including vitamins and herbal supplements
Partner's health information — any semen analysis results, medical history, or known conditions
Insurance card and any documentation of fertility benefits — ask your insurer beforehand what's covered
A list of questions — write them down before you go; it's easy to forget in the moment
Prima's contact information to share with your clinic — (718) 230-3535 or forprima.com
You're ready.
Walk in prepared — you'll get more out of the appointment.
Where Prima fits in
From Prescription Ordering to Delivery at Your Door
The moment your RE writes your first protocol, Prima is ready. Your clinic sends the prescription directly to us. From there we verify your insurance within 24 hours, apply any manufacturer savings programs automatically, and ship your medications with temperature-controlled packaging.
For everything you need to understand about your medications once they arrive — what each one does, how to store it, and how to inject it — our Medications 101 guide and Injecting 101 are built specifically for this moment.
How it works at Prima
From prescription to your door
Medications 101
Every fertility drug, explained
Injecting 101
Step-by-step injection guide
Frequently asked questions
Insurance, pricing, and more
Financing your medications
Programs, discounts, and savings
Request a free price quote
Know your costs before you commit
Your first fertility appointment is the beginning of the conversation. Prima is here for everything that comes after it.
Ready to get started with Prima?
Call or text us: (718) 230-3535 — open 7 days a week
Pricing & Program Note
Medication pricing reflects current Fertility Instant Savings Program rates through Prima as a certified EMD Serono and Ferring preferred partner. Pricing is subject to change. Patient eligibility for manufacturer savings programs varies. Contact our team for a personalized price quote.
