So how does it all work?

So DH and I are starting to think it might be time to look into a RE? I have no clue where to even being.

Quick bg: We have been TTC since July, on and off due to my irregular periods. I am 34, dh is 30. This month has been especially trying, weeks of OPK with no smiley face... we are starting to give up.

So..what do we do? Do we make an appt with a RE or someone? Will they want us to go to a regular dr. first? I hate drs, just though the thought of going to one makes my heart bet faster. And the thought of talking about such intimate things with a stranger.... panic mode. So having to go to one dr. just to go to another...

But of course we want kids so you have to sacrifice.

Anyway, sorry, I ramble, so if we did make an appt. w/someone, what would we talk about about? What would it be like? Would they do tests there or will we have to make other appts for that? Are they gonna make us do test for DH as well as me? (When I am pretty sure I have the issue?)

Ah, ok, no more questions. I am frekaing myself out!

Re: So how does it all work?

First, take a deep breath!!
Then, here is my suggestion: start with you OB/GYN since I'll assume you have some sort of a relationship there. They can do a lot of the preliminary testing, like cycle day 3 blood work, send DH for a semen analysis and even send you for more involved tests, like HSG (which is basically an x-ray to see if your tubes are open). Then based on all those findings, you can come up with a plan to stay with them and try some treatments (most OB's can do Clomid cycles and some can do IUI's) or they can recommend you get treatment with an RE.
Feel free to FM me anytime, I have been at this along time. And remember..those OPK's can drive you to drink (and not in the good way)!!

Re: So how does it all work?

You could go one of two ways. Call your ob first and make and appointment or bypass that and make an appointment for an RE. Either way both will begin a series of tests on both you and DH to determine what the problem is. After the problem is identified than you can move onto a plan that is specific to you and your needs.

Re: So how does it all work?

My opinion, go see a RE. It can't hurt, only help. Run the preliminary test, and based on the results come up with a plan you, your dh and doctor is comfortable with. I see Dr. Braverman and am very happy with him. Good luck to you.

Re: So how does it all work?

check w/ your insurance co 1st. some will let you go straight to the RE and others need a referral from your reg. doctor.

Re: So how does it all work?

Thank you for the replies

First, I don't have an OB/GYN I know i should, but seriously, last year I burned my face and had to go to walk in clinic and was so nervous. And that just some guy looking at my FACE. But I know I really should have one.

So that is why I was wondering if a RE would send me to regular dr first.

I will check w/the ins.co. too - didn't think about that aspect. DH's co-worker just went through all this and said the ins. is really good for this sort of thing, but I wasn't even thinking of a referral.