Lucy van de Wiel, PhD

Lucy van de Wiel, PhD, discusses how emerging technologies such as in vitro gametogenesis and gene editing show promise for addressing complex infertility cases, potentially revolutionizing reproductive medicine by offering new solutions for patients with genetic disorders, same-sex couples, and those with uterine factor infertility.

Lucy van de Wiel, PhD, discusses how in vitro fertilization (IVF) has evolved since its first successful use in 1978, initially targeting women with blocked fallopian tubes but expanding to address various fertility issues, including male factor infertility, unexplained infertility and genetic disorders, while also becoming more accessible to diverse patient populations including same-sex couples and single individuals.

Lucy van de Wiel, PhD, discusses how infertility can strain relationships between partners by causing emotional distress, communication breakdowns, sexual difficulties and feelings of blame or inadequacy, potentially leading to conflicts and decreased relationship satisfaction.

Lucy van de Wiel, PhD, discusses how infertility often leads to psychological distress and depression in patients, with stress potentially exacerbating fertility issues and creating a challenging cycle that can negatively impact conception efforts.

Lucy van de Wiel, PhD, discusses how infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse, diagnosed through medical history, physical exams and tests, with risk factors including age, lifestyle habits and medical conditions.