At the invitation of editor Sylwia Paszkowska of Radio Kraków, speakers at our Social and Medical Conference gave an interview today on the topic of in vitro fertilization #InvitroToMY

  • Katarzyna Olszak-Wąsik, M.D., Ph.D., specialist in gynecology and obstetrics and specialist in clinical genetics at TFP Fertility Poland, TFP Fertility Macierzyństwo, and Fertility UP
  • Jarosław Janeczko, M.D., Ph.D., a specialist in gynecology and obstetrics as well as a specialist in gynecological endocrinology and reproductive medicine, co-founder of “I’m Going to Be a Mom, I’m Going to Be a Dad” at Centrum Parens

Editor Sylwia Paszkowska rightly pointed out that until we start trying to conceive, we’re often unaware of various issues.

What came out of this conversation?

  • We don’t realize just how many social and medical superstitions we live with...
  • The challenge of starting a family is one that some people can’t cope with because they feel ashamed. This shame is a legacy of recent years!
  • Issues related to in vitro fertilization often involve family dynamics and the professional environment. Families often get involved in this process, but that isn’t always helpful. That’s why it’s so important to have a psychologist on the program.
  • We need to help patients come to terms with the fact that issues related to starting a family are a medical condition, not a punishment. Despite their negative emotions, patients continue to try to have a child. Often, however, couples break up. Frustration and self-blame build up. Patients feel ashamed and guilty. This is a psychological problem for them.

Dr. Olszak-Wąsik emphasized:

Treatment can be long, arduous, and not always effective. It’s a process that can’t be treated like a trip to the store. IVF treatment is like being in the ring—you have to put on the gloves, because it’s a fight.

Dr. Janeczko summarized:

This is a unique condition in which the couple is the patient.

The discussion also covered genetic disorders and the unequal opportunities for single women in treatment. We will continue to advocate for social groups that have not yet been included in the government’s IVF program.

Thank you for inviting us to the studio, because every conversation is a step forward.