Choosing Telehealth to Get Pregnant: Doctors vs Fertility Coaches
It’s no secret that we have seen a dramatic rise in telehealth services in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic – and these services are without a doubt here to stay.
For individuals trying to conceive (TTC), this presents numerous opportunities for improved quality and access to care – and we’re here for it!
In this article, we’ll shed light on what telehealth is, how it can improve the TTC process, and how you can access virtual support with Mira. We’ll conclude by sharing how our team of fertility experts utilizes Mira’s products with clients each day.
Ready? Let’s go!
What Is Telehealth?
‘Telehealth’ is the term used to describe any type of healthcare service that is delivered remotely via phone, tablet, or computer. Instead of visiting the doctor’s office in person, telehealth enables patients to receive care from the comfort and privacy of their homes.
Although telehealth is not appropriate in all medical scenarios, it is particularly beneficial for patients with recurring symptoms and those in need of ongoing support.
Many different types of healthcare providers utilize telehealth in their practice – from general practitioners and medical specialists to counselors, nutritionists, and health coaches. Typical services (depending on the practitioner) include ordering prescriptions, tracking patient progress, answering questions, and providing emotional support.
Telehealth and Fertility
When it comes to fertility and getting pregnant, having access to virtual support is a game changer for patients – here’s why.
To start, it’s important to note that so much of the TTC process happens in the trenches of day-to-day life – and it often requires making some uncomfortable lifestyle changes. Having regular virtual check-ins with a doctor or fertility coach can be a lifeline for patients who need help with things like interpreting their fertility charts or staying on track with any lifestyle goals.
Next, depending on your location, finding a qualified fertility specialist can be difficult. Not only that, but they can be expensive to see in person and even booked out for months in advance. Virtual consultations help to improve access to care while also decreasing overall costs for patients.
Last but not least, the road to conception can be an emotional process – especially for individuals struggling with infertility and miscarriage. Being able to chat through some of these challenges privately over the phone or in a video call provides patients with much-needed emotional support during this stressful time.
Virtual Guidance With Mira’s Hormone Health Clinic
Mira’s Hormone Health Clinic for Fertility offers an integrative approach to reproductive health and fertility services.
Powered by a team of registered nurses, functional nutritionists, and pelvic health experts, our coaches are well-equipped to provide the following for each and every client:
- In-depth hormone analysis and cycle evaluation
- Checking fertility charts (including interpreting Mira charts)
- Personalized guidance on nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle
- Practical tips and strategies for enhancing female and male fertility
- Emotional support every step of the way
To learn more about our fertility coaches and to book an initial session, visit: Mira’s Hormone Health Clinic for Fertility
Fertility Coaches vs Doctors: What’s the Difference?
It’s important to note that fertility coaches are not intended to be a replacement for a doctor or OB/GYN. Instead, the role of a fertility coach is to help individuals make sense of the different aspects of fertility, so that they can make the best decisions for their reproductive health and wellbeing.
Everyone’s fertility goals are different, and we want to make sure that you receive the right support for your situation. Check out the table below to learn more about the key differences between fertility coaches and doctors (OB/GYNs).
Fertility Coaching | OB/GYN Consultation | |
Purpose | To provide lifestyle guidance, assess fertility charts, and provide emotional relief. | To provide medical guidance, assess fertility charts, write prescriptions, and make diagnoses. |
Qualification(s) | Varies. Typically RN (Registered Nurse), BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing), and/or NFP (Natural Family Planning) Certified | Licensed medical doctor with a specialist qualification in obstetrics and gynecology |
Perfect for… | Individuals looking for practical, personalized guidance on improving fertility and balancing hormones. Fertility coaches can provide support with: Understanding the TTC process, interpreting fertility charts, nutrition, supplements, managing stress and well-being, balancing hormones, navigating lifestyle changes, and creating personalized fertility plans | Individuals in need of medical guidance and treatment. OB/GYNs can provide support with: Creating a pregnancy plan, interpreting fertility charts, and accessing prescriptions. OB/GYNs can also test and provide diagnoses for medical conditions – such as PCOS and endometriosis. |
Review Mira Charts | ✓ | ✓ |
Integrative approach | ✓ | X |
Habit and lifestyle plan | ✓ | X |
Review of medical records | X | ✓ |
Diagnosis | X | ✓ |
Medical treatment | X | ✓ |
Insurance coverage | X | ✓ |
Fertility Coaches vs Therapeutic Coaches: What’s the Difference?
If this is your first time learning about the concept of a fertility coach, you might be wondering what sets them apart from therapeutic coaches.
To clarify, fertility coaches typically have certifications in nursing and/or natural family planning (NFP) – meaning they are knowledgeable in the many different methods for tracking the menstrual cycle (and pinpointing ovulation) in order to plan a pregnancy. Oftentimes they have devoted their entire careers to helping individuals and couples conceive. They understand that each and every cycle is unique, and they are sensitive to the emotional toll that the TTC process can have on individuals.
Therapeutic coaches, on the other hand, do not have certifications in family planning or fertility. Instead, they typically have backgrounds in mental health and counseling. Therefore, their focus is on helping individuals overcome various challenges that affect their mental health and well-being – such as depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, burnout, family conflict, relationships, and stress.
Therapeutic coaches can certainly offer emotional support throughout the TTC process, however, they will not be able to assist with the practical aspects of planning a pregnancy in ways that a fertility coach can.
A little extra support from an expert can go a long way
Book an online consultation with one of our Hormone Health Coaches.
Schedule NowHelping You Get the Most Out of Mira
All of our fertility experts in our Hormone Health Clinic are well-versed in all of our products here at Mira.
For example, if you are using the Hormone Monitor to predict and confirm ovulation, they can help you read your charts, interpret your results, and make good decisions for your future. They can also assist with BBT monitoring, navigating the Mira App, and finding the right fertility supplement.
Final Thoughts
At Mira, we’re excited to see all the new ways that technology can help us learn more about our bodies and reproductive health.
To learn more about Mira’s mini hormone lab and how you can use it to estimate your fertile window with up to 99% accuracy, check out our article How Mira Works.
If you’re looking for further information and resources to help you take control of your fertility, we welcome you to explore our library of blog articles, eBooks, Guided TTC Course, and Facebook support group.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a fertility coach do?
A fertility coach provides practical guidance on all aspects of fertility and planning a pregnancy – including balancing hormones, ovulation tracking, lifestyle, nutrition, supplements, exercise, emotional health, and more.
They can also provide advice on how to navigate more advanced fertility solutions – such as female fertility testing, in-vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), sperm and egg cell donation, and more.
How can I increase fertility?
There are a number of different strategies that can help improve your chances of conception.
This includes:
Planning sex at the right time each cycle by tracking ovulation
Maintaining a healthy weight
Keeping stress levels to a minimum
Avoiding toxic substances such as alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs
For more strategies on improving fertility, check out our How to Get Pregnancy Checklist.
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