What to Ask Your GP When Requesting a Fertility Referral

A guide for those beginning their fertility journey — created in collaboration with the Australian Endo Foundation and HeyDoc.

Starting a fertility journey can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure what to ask, what tests you need, or how to navigate the healthcare system. A good GP can help guide you through this process, but knowing the right questions to ask can make a huge difference.

Below is a simple, practical checklist to help you get the most out of your appointment.

1. “Can you organise my initial fertility blood tests?”

Ask your GP about baseline tests, such as:

• Day-2/3 hormones (FSH, LH, Estradiol)

• AMH

• Thyroid function

• Prolactin

• Vitamin D

• Full blood count & iron studies

These can help identify common causes of difficulty conceiving and guide next steps.

2. “Should I have any imaging before seeing a specialist?”

Common first-line scans include:

• Pelvic ultrasound to check ovaries, uterus, and endometrial lining

• Assessment for endometriosis features or ovarian cysts

• Semen analysis for male partners

This might give a clearer picture before you see a fertility specialist.

3. “Are there any lifestyle or health changes that could improve our chances?”

Your GP can advise on:

• Folic acid, iodine, and pre-conception supplements

• Weight, exercise, sleep, and nutrition

• Timing of intercourse

• Reducing alcohol and smoking

• Optimising chronic conditions (e.g., thyroid disease, PCOS)

4. “Do I need a referral to see a fertility specialist?”

Yes — in Australia, you’ll need a valid GP referral for Medicare rebates.

A well-written referral should include:

• Detailed medical/menstrual history

• Relevant blood tests and imaging

• Partner history and semen analysis results

• Past pregnancies, surgeries, or suspected endometriosis

Bringing a comprehensive referral can help specialists provide quicker, more targeted care.

5. “Could endometriosis be contributing to my symptoms or difficulty conceiving?”

If you experience pelvic pain, heavy periods, pain with intercourse, bowel/bladder symptoms, or long-standing cycle irregularity, it’s worth discussing endometriosis — particularly given how commonly it coexists with infertility.

GPs can arrange first-line investigations and refer you to clinicians experienced in endometriosis and fertility care.

6. “What happens next after you’ve sent the referral?”

Ask your GP about:

• Expected wait times

• Whether a referral was sent electronically or printed

• How to follow up if you haven’t heard from the clinic

• Whether you need repeat tests while waiting

This can help avoid delays at a time when timing matters.

A faster, easier way to get your fertility referral

If you’re finding it difficult to get a GP appointment, or don’t have time to wait weeks, HeyDoc provides same-day fertility consultations with AHPRA-registered doctors.

We offer:

• A comprehensive fertility assessment

• All recommended blood tests and imaging referrals

• Clear next steps

• A referral letter to your chosen fertility specialist

For the Australian Endo Foundation community, we’ve created a dedicated mini-page with a 10% discount code: AEF10

Final Thoughts

Beginning your fertility journey doesn’t have to feel confusing or lonely. Asking the right questions early helps you advocate for yourself, get answers sooner, and move forward with clarity.

The Australian Endo Foundation and HeyDoc are committed to empowering people with education, access, and support at every stage.