second opinion
Asking for another specialist opinion on a specific problem or piece of advice is not unusual. Your doctor or you can initiate this as the patient.
when to get a second opinion
A second opinion can be considered if you have any doubts about the advice of a doctor, suspect an incorrect diagnosis, if you have undergone repeated treatments without success or have lost confidence in the person treating you.
Given that infertility can have many causes, there are countless areas of specialisation. If your first doctor is not specialised in the specific field that relates to you, you can consider asking a sub-specialist for an opinion.
By keeping well informed about infertility problems, you will be better able to judge when a second opinion is desirable.
Back to top
preparing for a second opinion
The doctor that provides the second opinion must have at least as much experience as your first doctor. In choosing a doctor for a second opinion, you can ask the first doctor for a recommendation or seek referral from other sources.
Before going to the second doctor for a second opinion, it is important to ensure that you fully understand the conclusions and recommendations of the first doctor. When you make an appointment for a second option, find out exactly what documents and information are required before the appointment. The doctor providing the second opinion will probably want to see your laboratory results, X-rays and other documents before seeing you. It is usual to ask the first doctor for a letter containing all the relevant information and test results.
Back to top
what to do with a second opinion
Generally speaking, the second opinion usually agrees with the opinion of the first doctor. If this is not the case, you will have to decide whether you are going to stay with the first doctor, transfer to the doctor who gave the second opinion or ask for another medical opinion.
Back to top