What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Infertility (Initial Telemedicine Counseling)

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for infertility counseling, families often receive personalized information about the possible causes of infertility and next steps for evaluation or treatment. The healthcare provider may suggest specific tests, lifestyle changes, or referrals to specialists. This visit is a chance to ask questions and understand the process ahead. Follow-up appointments, whether virtual or in-person, may be needed to review test results and plan care. It's important to watch for any urgent symptoms that need immediate medical attention. Telemedicine can help start the conversation and guide families but may not replace all in-person exams or tests. This guide explains what to expect after your telemedicine visit and how to prepare for the next steps safely and confidently.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain — seek emergency care immediately.
• Heavy vaginal bleeding or sudden large blood clots — go to the nearest emergency department.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with chills — contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial counseling and education about infertility causes and options.
• Reviewing medical history and symptoms related to infertility.
• Discussing test results that do not require physical examination.
• Providing guidance on lifestyle changes and next steps.
• Answering questions and offering emotional support.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or procedures that require in-person visits.
• Conducting ultrasound or blood tests remotely.
• Managing emergency symptoms or complications.
• Providing immediate treatment for acute medical issues.
• Diagnosing conditions that require laboratory or imaging confirmation.

What to Expect Right After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your initial telemedicine counseling for infertility, your healthcare provider will usually summarize the discussion and may send you a care plan. This plan might include recommendations for tests like blood work or imaging, advice on lifestyle factors, or referrals to specialists such as pediatric endocrinologists or fertility experts. You may receive instructions on how to schedule these next steps or where to get additional support.

Common Next Steps in Infertility Evaluation

The evaluation often involves several steps, including hormone testing, ultrasound exams, or genetic counseling. Your provider may explain these tests during or after the visit. Sometimes, in-person visits are needed to complete physical exams or procedures that cannot be done remotely. It's normal for this process to take time and involve multiple appointments.

How to Prepare for Follow-Up Visits

Keep a record of any symptoms, questions, or concerns to discuss at your next appointment. Follow any instructions your provider gives about fasting or timing for tests. Make sure you have access to any recommended labs or imaging centers. If you need help scheduling or understanding instructions, ask your healthcare team for support.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

Certain symptoms require urgent attention even after your telemedicine visit. These include severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, sudden swelling, or high fever. If any of these occur, seek emergency care promptly. Your telemedicine provider can guide you on when to go to a hospital or urgent care center.

How Telemedicine Supports Your Care

Telemedicine allows you to connect with specialists from home, saving travel time and making it easier to get expert advice. It is helpful for discussing symptoms, reviewing test results, and planning care. However, some tests and treatments need to be done in person. Your provider will help you know when to schedule these visits.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your medical and family history related to fertility.
• List any symptoms or concerns you want to discuss.
• Prepare a quiet, private space with good internet connection for your tele-visit.
• Have a pen and paper or device ready to take notes.
• Gather any previous medical records or test results if available.
• Make a list of questions you want to ask your healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Schedule any recommended lab tests or imaging studies as instructed.
• Follow lifestyle or medication advice given during the visit.
• Keep track of any new or worsening symptoms and report them promptly.
• Attend follow-up appointments, either virtual or in-person, as scheduled.
• Seek emergency care if you experience any red-flag symptoms.
• Maintain open communication with your healthcare team for ongoing support.

FAQs

What happens if I need tests after my telemedicine visit?

Your healthcare provider will guide you on where and how to get any recommended tests, such as blood work or ultrasounds. These usually require an in-person visit to a clinic or laboratory. After the tests, you may have another telemedicine or in-person appointment to discuss the results.

Can telemedicine replace all infertility care?

Telemedicine is helpful for counseling, education, and some follow-up, but it cannot replace physical exams or tests that must be done in person. Your provider will let you know when an in-person visit is necessary.

What should I do if I feel worse after the telemedicine visit?

If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, high fever, or other urgent symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately. For less urgent concerns, contact your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms.

How can I prepare my child for infertility counseling?

Explain the visit in simple, age-appropriate language. Encourage your child to ask questions and share how they feel. Having a trusted adult present during the telemedicine visit can help support your child.

Will I get a written summary of the telemedicine visit?

Often, providers will send a summary or care plan after the visit. If you do not receive one, you can request it to help you remember the recommendations and next steps.

Sources

1. Infertility — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Infertility: Overview — Mayo Clinic.
3. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Infertility Evaluation and Treatment — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. Always follow your healthcare provider's recommendations and seek emergency care if you experience urgent symptoms.