I’m thinking about it today because I just saw an ad for a fertility show – offering a mix of actual respected experts, such as consultant gynaecologists but also including those just selling non-evidence based products and services. What’s missing? For one, despite the show advertising panels discussing subfertilty and PCOS, there are no consultant endocrinologists (hormone experts) or clinical mental health specialists experienced with supporting couples through infertility. [Wait?  They all say “expert”?? ] GPs should always be where couples start – but only GPs on speaker list are selling supplements. None of the speakers are from public or not-for-profit fertility clinics. 

Surprising? No: fertility market is BIG business (worth over €350 million in UK). Which means that you need to be a savvy consumer – difficult when emotions are involved. A cynical person might wonder that this new show is launched the same year as start of HSE funded fertility hubs – AND held the week before Mother’s Day 🤔

1. Always start with your GP for unbiased advice. You can also read more on your options on the HSE website.

2. If you already know that you need to make healthy changes before trying, start early. The stuff you already know: cut down on alcohol, stop smoking, get active, eat well. A properly qualified INDI and CORU registered dietitian experienced in fertility is well worth it, and often reimbursed if you have insurance. When I am referred patients from fertility clinics (either ahead of fertility or egg-freezing) they are often frustrated to find that we have 4-6 months of work to do!  Weight loss is the commonest – but not – only reason that patients are referred to me.  Weight loss should be done with an in-person and experienced doctor, and ideally start at least one year before you want to get pregnant. But again, better sooner than later. 

3. If you are worried about possible subfertility (thyroid, PCOS, obesity) start with your GP. Your GP may often be able to check and reassure you, start treatment if needed,  or refer you to a qualified consultant endocrinologist if needed. Even privately, the waiting lists are long for endocrinology so, again, start early.

4. Save your money: You do need folic acid but you don’t need any expensive supplements. Don’t buy home testing kits of any sort.  If choosing complementary therapies, make sure that you’ve started with your GP. If you have untreated medical conditions affecting fertilty, acupucture and reflexology can’t do much. 

5.  If considering medical tourism, know that it has risks.  Get expert and unbiased medical advise before committing or putting down any money.  If considering donors or surrogacy, you should consider whether legal advice is needed before committing.

6.  If attending a for-profit health show (one that is not organised by a patient advocacy group or HSE), remember that you are there as a consumer not a patient. Stay healthily skeptical if you are getting a hard sell from the podium for how amazing their service, supplement, or product is.  Remember that the organisations in the hall have all paid good money to have a stand there, so are there to generate business.  It’s not altruistic or strictly educational.   Google the speakers. Don’t put down any money.  Take as much information as you can but promise yourself a 72-hour cooling off period before committing to anything.  Consider booking an appointment with an independent expert, like your GP, to discuss.