Fertility Clinic – MAR (Medically Assisted Reproduction)

FAQ on Fertility and Medically Assisted Reproduction

• 1. What is infertility?

  Infertility is defined as the inability to achieve a pregnancy after 12 menstrual cycles, despite regular sexual intercourse during ovulation. It affects about 20% of couples. Humans, with roughly a 15% chance of conceiving per cycle, are among the least fertile species, alongside pandas.

• 2. What are the main symptoms of infertility?

  Difficulty conceiving is often the only noticeable sign of infertility. However, some symptoms may serve as warning signs. In women, irregular menstrual cycles, pelvic pain, or menstrual disorders can be indicative. In men, erectile difficulties, reduced libido, or changes in sperm appearance can be signals to consider. If you experience these symptoms and wish to conceive, it is recommended to consult a fertility specialist to identify the causes and explore appropriate solutions.

• 3. What are the causes of infertility in men and women?

  In women, common causes include ovulation disorders (such as polycystic ovary syndrome), blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, or hormonal problems. In men, abnormal sperm production or ejaculation problems are the main causes of infertility.

• 4. Is infertility only a female problem?

  No, infertility affects both men and women. About one-third of cases are due to female factors, one-third to male factors, and the remaining third results from combined or unexplained factors. That is why it is essential that both partners are evaluated to best identify the causes and possible solutions. Infertility is an issue that concerns the couple as a whole.

• 5. How long should one wait before consulting for infertility?

  It is recommended to see a doctor after one year of unsuccessful attempts for patients under 35. Beyond this age, a consultation is advised after six months, as fertility decreases over time. The doctor can then carry out various tests to evaluate the couple’s fertility, including sperm analysis, gynecological ultrasounds, hormone measurements, and other tests tailored to each situation.

• 6. What is MAR (Medically Assisted Reproduction)?

  Medically Assisted Reproduction (MAR) encompasses a range of techniques designed to help couples who have difficulty conceiving naturally. These methods include intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), sperm or egg donation, gamete cryopreservation (eggs and sperm), and preimplantation genetic testing.

• 7. Are infertility treatments effective?

  Infertility treatments can be very effective, but success varies depending on several factors, such as age and cause of infertility. Treatments like IVF tend to have higher success rates in younger couples. A personalized evaluation by a specialist helps guide the most appropriate strategy for each situation.

• 8. How does In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) work?

  An IVF cycle usually lasts about four weeks and follows a defined protocol. First, ovarian stimulation for around 10 days is performed to promote the maturation of multiple eggs. Once ovulation is triggered, the eggs are retrieved via a vaginal puncture and fertilized in the lab with the partner’s or donor’s sperm. After five days of embryonic development, one embryo is transferred into the uterus. About 10 days after the transfer, a pregnancy test checks whether implantation has succeeded.

• 9. What are the chances of success with MAR?

  Success rates for MAR depend on several factors, including the woman’s age, the quality of eggs and sperm, and the technique used. On average, IVF has a success rate of 30–40% per embryo transfer for women under 35. This rate gradually decreases with age. Multiple attempts are often needed to achieve pregnancy.

• 10. Who can access MAR in Belgium?

  MAR is available to heterosexual couples, same-sex couples, and single women, regardless of marital status. Belgian law also allows sperm or egg donation. IVF is legal up to 45 years of age and partially reimbursed by social security up to 42 years.

• 11. Are the treatments painful?

  Each treatment journey is different, but we do everything possible to make the procedures as comfortable as possible.

• 12. Can I undergo MAR as a transgender person?

  Yes, we support all individuals wishing to become parents, regardless of their gender identity or personal situation.