#IVFYouAskWeAnswer

Your questions are answered by Katarzyna Olszak-Wąsik, M.D., Ph.D.—a specialist in gynecology and obstetrics and a specialist in clinical genetics.

She is a graduate of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice. She completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology while working at the Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics, and Gynecologic Oncology in Bytom. She also gained professional experience at medical centers abroad.

In 2010, she completed postgraduate studies in healthcare management. In 2015, she defended her doctoral dissertation on male infertility with honors. She regularly participates in training courses, conferences, and specialized workshops. She is the author and co-author of over 20 scientific publications. In 2023, she completed specialized training in clinical genetics.

Dr. Katarzyna Olszak-Wąsik, M.D., specializes in particular in infertility, menstrual disorders, recurrent miscarriages, PCOS, and genetic issues related to infertility, obstetrics, and gynecology.

She is affiliated with three medical facilities and sees patients at:

• TFP Macierzyństwo Medical Center (Kraków, ul. Białoprądnicka 7a)
• Nikiszowiec Medical Center (Katowice, 48 Gospodarcza St.)
• Antrum Medical Center (Bytom, 5 Olimpijska St.)

Below are sample questions you’ve sent us and the answers provided by Katarzyna Olszak-Wąsik, M.D., Ph.D.

When will the option to undergo preimplantation genetic testing of embryos on a commercial basis become available to individuals receiving financial assistance?

Katarzyna Olszak-Wąsik, M.D., Ph.D.: Pursuant to a decision by the Ministry of Health dated June 18, 2024, couples eligible for the Infertility Treatment Program are permitted to undergo commercial preimplantation genetic testing of embryos if there are appropriate medical indications. This option is available now.

What if the partner needs to undergo a biopsy due to azoospermia?

Katarzyna Olszak-Wąsik, MD, PhD: Obtaining sperm via a testicular biopsy performed due to azoospermia (after ruling out other causes of this abnormality) offers the only chance of achieving pregnancy through in vitro fertilization. Therefore, the diagnosis of severe male factor infertility, in the absence of other effective treatment options, is an indication for treating the couple with in vitro fertilization.

When will the medications be covered?

Katarzyna Olszak-Wąsik, M.D., Ph.D.: Through the end of June, medications are reimbursed for up to 3 IVF cycles; starting in July, couples eligible for the program will be entitled to reimbursement for medications (up to 4 cycles).

Are women with endometriosis who require surgery prior to the procedure excluded from the program?

Katarzyna Olszak-Wąsik, M.D., Ph.D.: The program is intended for patients struggling with infertility, and endometriosis itself can be a cause of infertility. However, women who have been diagnosed with endometriosis but have not yet unsuccessfully tried to conceive are not eligible for the program. The program does not provide for “fertility preservation” among patients with endometriosis.

If, after receiving an answer to your question, you still have doubts or need a consultation, please schedule an appointment through the Znany Lekarz website LINK or LINK