As part of the emotional roller coaster of in vitro fertilization, many couples face the question of whether it’s best to consider a second opinion vs. change clinics for their IVF treatment.
Infertility treatments can be physically, emotionally, and mentally draining for both partners since the outcome is never guaranteed. Below, we explore the benefits of getting a second opinion and/or possibly changing fertility clinics.
Getting a Second Opinion
If you’re undergoing IVF treatments, getting a second opinion allows you to get another professional assessment and explore other options that may be more suitable for your particular situation. Requesting a second opinion is every couple’s right and does not necessarily reflect the competence of your current fertility specialist.
Benefits of Getting a Second Opinion
A second opinion provides you with a thorough review of your existing plan by addressing specific concerns that have not been fully explored with the original fertility specialist. By identifying possible alternative approaches, you can get a better understanding of the different treatment options.
Each case has unique factors and each specialist has encountered different scenarios. Having another specialist draw on their experience and expertise with previous cases may be beneficial to you and your partner. Based on common denominators, a second opinion may offer insight into the cause of your infertility.
In addition to exploring different types of fertility treatments, a second opinion will also provide you with peace of mind. If you’ve had failed fertility therapies, investigating deeper with a second opinion can give you solace in knowing everything that could be done has been considered.
The Process of Getting a Second Opinion
It is important to talk to your existing fertility specialist about your intentions of getting a second opinion. A trustworthy doctor, regardless of their speciality, will support your decision by working closely with another fertility team. The goal of a reputable fertility clinic is to explore and provide treatment plans with the best possible outcome for you and your partner.
Prepare a list of questions, concerns, and fears you have and bring them with you when you have the consultation with the new specialist. Ensure all the necessary paperwork has been completed to allow the specialist access to your fertility records, including medical records, test results, and reports on failed IVF attempts, if applicable.
Changing Clinics
You may change fertility clinics for a number of reasons, some of which are voluntary and some are out of necessity. For instance, if you move to another town, you may need to research a new facility to continue treatment.
Oftentimes, the decision to change clinics stems from a lack of confidence in the specialist and/or staff at the current facility. This may be due to poor communication, a lack of personalization, or an overall feeling of being undervalued and disrespected. You may also want to change clinics if errors and mistakes are constantly being made.
Switching to a different clinic may provide you with a glimpse of hope but it needs to be approached with patience. You’ll most likely need to begin a new treatment plan. This might involve repeating some of the same tests you and your partner have already done or doing new tests.
Discovering clinics with advanced technology or expertise not available at your current location may open other doors for you and your partner.
What to Consider Before Changing Clinics
There are important issues to consider before changing clinics. Fertility plans require full disclosure from both the medical team and the patients. It also requires comparing costs and insurance coverage between clinics.
Transferring medical history and the need for repeat testing can cause potential delays in initiating treatment at the new facility. Furthermore, building a new relationship with a doctor can take time.
Making the Right Choice: Second Opinion vs. Changing Clinics
Getting a second opinion can provide you with new information about your infertility issues and what is expected with a developing procedure, as well as allow you to have more control over your fertility plan.
Switching to a new facility can seem daunting but it could also be highly rewarding if successful. Consider ways to deal with the emotional fears, concerns, and anxiety that can come with a new clinic, a new doctor, and unfamiliar tests and procedures.
Before making the final decision, consider how open your current specialist is and how willing they are to make modifications to your plan. Do you have limited access to up-to-date treatments and procedures? Does another facility offer more treatment options?
Just as having a strong support team can help reduce stress and anxiety, seeking a second opinion or switching to a new fertility clinic may increase your chance of a successful outcome.
Tips for a Smooth Transition
After deep consideration, and extensive research, if you decide to switch to a new clinic, communicate openly with your existing and new clinic about your decision and expectations. Review all insurance information and financial support options before beginning treatment at a new clinic.
It is important to ensure that all medical records are transferred and you should arrange a follow-up appointment with the new doctor. At this meeting, bring with you notes, all correspondence, and a list of questions you’d like to address during the consultation. If you know of tests, procedures, or treatments that may be of interest, discuss all options with your new fertility specialist.
Remember it is YOUR fertility journey. Become your own advocate by taking control of the direction of your treatment plan.
Concerned About Getting a Second Opinion vs. Changing Clinics? ONE Fertility Is Here for You!
Consult with the leading fertility specialists at ONE Fertility Kitchener Waterloo to explore new opportunities in your journey to parenthood. We offer comprehensive and compassionate care, personalized fertility plans, and evidence-based medical treatments. Call us at (519) 650-0011 to discuss booking a consultation for our services.
