Choosing a fertility clinic is a major decision, and while it may seem straightforward, there's actually a lot to consider.

The first thing to remember is that you are not alone. A lot of women have gone through this before, and many of them are now parents! The process can feel lonely, but leaning on those who have walked this path before will make everything much easier.

How can you use others as resources?

Well, you can read their reviews on Glow Pages and their conversations in Glow Community. Here is the best advice the Glow Community has to offer.

1. It's going to be expensive. Ahem...VERY expensive. It’s super important to understand what your treatment path will be and what the costs associated with that path are. You do not want to have any surprises later down the line. The Glow Fertility Program can help potentially save you thousands at top clinics.

2. Don't be afraid to get a second opinion. When it comes to selecting a clinic, you have to find the right fit. You might really care about finding doctors and nurses who are optimistic and have a great bedside manner. Or you might prefer a team that will be brutally honest with you. Whatever it is you're looking for, you might not find it with the first doctor you visit. So don't be afraid to get a second (or even a third!) opinion.

3. Research before you choose! You can check out the success rates of a specific clinic/doctor using the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology website. If you go to "Find a Clinic," you can search a list of clinics in your area, and you will find a "SART Data Report" for each clinic. Glow Pages will also give you reviews and stats on all the clinics in your area.

4. Location matters. Getting fertility treatment can be a huge time commitment. When you're in an IVF cycle, you have to go in for blood work and ultrasounds every few days. It doesn't sound like much, but that turns out to be around 6 or 7 times in one month! And when they schedule the egg retrieval and then embryo transfer, you have to be ready to do it when they are—it's all a timing thing. Be prepared to take a day or two off work for the retrieval and the transfer. And you'll be happier if you find a clinic that is relatively easy to get to, in addition to being a good fit.

5. Trust your gut. Getting fertility treatment is a commitment: a commitment of your time, money, and, most importantly, your body. At some point you have to trust that your instincts are right. Alternatively, if your current doctor is not giving you a positive vibe, then it is time to get out.

Talk to as many people as you can (don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions), and you can even talk to Glow Fertility Program coaches to get your questions answered! Call 1-866-GLOW-NOW to hear the perspectives and advice of women who have walked this path before.

Creamy CM