Fertilization and fertility problems

If all your attempts to get pregnant are unsuccessful, you should know that about one in seven couples experiences fertility problems. These problems affect both men and women. Rest assured, there are solutions for every problem. Talk to your doctor about using one of the assisted reproductive technologies.

• If you have been trying to have a child for at least two years without success, assisted reproduction can be considered. If not, you will need to be patient.
• In France, to be eligible for assisted human reproduction (AHR), you must be under 43 years of age and have been married or cohabiting with your spouse for at least two years. For the sake of the unborn child, this is a regulated procedure.
• There are many techniques of medically assisted reproduction. A clinical assessment with your doctor will allow you to find the cause of your infertility and choose the most appropriate solution.
• The oldest and most natural technique—artificial insemination—consists of injecting sperm directly into the uterus. It is preferable to choose this method if the medical examination does not show any problems with your fallopian tubes.
• Otherwise, you can use in vitro fertilization (IVF). Here, the egg is fertilized outside the uterus and then placed back in. This technique is also effective in cases of ovulation problems, in addition to hormonal treatment.
• If the tests show that you are infertile because of a tubal obstruction and that this problem is associated with a lack of sperm or a hereditary disease in your partner, in vitro fertilization will be done on the basis of an egg donation.
• If both you and your spouse suffer from a hereditary disease, embryo donation will be recommended.
• You should know that in France, the use of a surrogate mother is prohibited.
• Before embarking on this great adventure, contact the Social Security department. A 100% reimbursement is provided upon presentation of the doctor's medical certificate.