Should You Travel for Fertility Treatment? What to Know Before You Go
Considering traveling for fertility treatment? Whether that means going to a clinic in another state, somewhere within your state, or even to a different country, it’s becoming more common, and it definitely adds another layer of complexity.
As someone who now sees a growing number of patients from outside the Austin area, I want to make sure you're really prepared if you're thinking about taking this step. So let's walk through some of the biggest questions, tips, and potential red flags when it comes to traveling for fertility care.
Why People Travel for Fertility Treatment
There are so many valid reasons why someone might choose to leave their hometown clinic:
They’ve moved and still trust a previous doctor.
They’ve had a bad experience locally.
Wait times at their current clinic are too long.
They’re seeking more personalized care or better communication.
They’re looking for a more cost-effective (or higher quality) option.
Whatever your reason is, it’s personal. And that’s okay. What matters most is that you trust your clinic, your doctor, and their team.
The Personal Side of Choosing a Clinic
I’ll be the first to say I’m not the right doctor for everybody. And that’s totally fine. The relationship you have with your fertility clinic is deeply personal, and how we communicate and structure our care might not be right for everyone.
But if you’re considering working with a doctor or clinic that isn’t local to you, there are a few things I want you to really think through.
Don’t Ask One Doctor to Follow Another’s Plan
This is important. Every clinic and every doctor does IVF a little differently. I’m not comfortable managing a protocol created by someone else, especially if I don’t know the details behind why it was chosen.
So if you’re seeing a doctor for a second opinion, that’s great! We can absolutely talk about the differences between approaches. But if you want me or anyone else to be fully responsible for your care, you need to be okay with following our plan. That’s how you get the best results.
Be Willing to Travel (Seriously)
If you’re scheduling a consultation with an out-of-town clinic, be realistic. Ask yourself:
Would I actually travel there for treatment?
Is this location accessible enough if I need to make multiple trips?
Does the city or environment feel safe and comfortable for me?
Because trust me, if the answer is no—if getting there is going to be a nightmare—that's not setting you up for success.
Send All of Your Records in Advance
Please. I cannot stress this enough: send everything ahead of time. Testing, treatment history, prior protocols—all of it.
Here’s why: you're paying for my time and expertise. I want to give you the most personalized, informed plan possible. But if I don’t have your records or you haven’t filled out your intake form, I’m walking in blind. You deserve better than that.
Be Clear About Your Goals
I love it when patients come in and say, “Here’s what I’m hoping for.” It helps guide everything we do together.
Think about your goals:
How many children do you want?
Is speed a top priority?
Are you open to egg or sperm donation?
What’s your budget?
What risks or trade-offs are you not willing to make?
Being upfront helps me help you better.
Know What Can Be Done Locally vs. What Should Be Done at the Clinic
Most people don’t realize that the active part of an IVF cycle is only about 10–14 days. That means some of the early steps—like a baseline ultrasound—can potentially be done closer to home.
But once we start monitoring your follicles closely? That’s where I get more particular. I want my clinic—my eyes—on your progress. That’s the best way to make timely, accurate decisions. And often, it’s the safest, too.
Understand the Time Commitment
If you’re traveling, know when you need to be present and how long you’ll need to stay. We usually say about 10 days, give or take. Sometimes longer if you’re doing a fresh transfer or more involved procedures.
Plan for it. Budget for it. Make sure that time away won’t be a bigger stressor than it needs to be.
Don’t Let Cost Be the Only Factor
I get it—IVF is expensive. But if you see a clinic that’s significantly cheaper than all the rest, ask why. Quality matters. The training of the staff, the lab, and the monitoring all play a role in your outcome.
And when it comes to going overseas for treatment? Be cautious. Yes, it may work out for some. But I tend to see the patients who went abroad and then had to redo their cycles here, ultimately spending more time, money, and emotional energy.
Ask the Right Questions About the Clinic
Here are the questions I’d want answered if I were the patient:
Who does the ultrasounds? My doctor? A tech? A nurse?
Who draws blood and handles labs?
How are results communicated—phone call, email, portal message?
Who updates you on your plan day to day?
Is it the same doctor or a rotating team?
How responsive is the clinic to your questions?
How many nurses or coordinators are on your case?
These details matter. Especially if you’re paying out of pocket and traveling to work with someone, you want to know how and when you’ll be supported.
You Deserve a Clinic That Feels Right
Here’s the truth: Just like dating, you might have to meet a few clinics before you find the one.
Don’t ignore your gut. If something feels off, it’s okay to explore other options. There are no hurt feelings here. I’ve had patients leave my clinic and I’ve had new patients come from others, and that’s just part of the journey.
This is your fertility path. Not your doctor’s, not your insurance company’s. Yours.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering traveling for fertility treatment, I hope this helped you feel a little more informed and a lot more empowered. It’s not always the easiest route, but sometimes it’s the right one.
