Question 1

What are the requirements for Fertility treatment in the FertilityCare clinic ?

Accepted Answer

Are you considering fertility treatment at the FertilityCare Clinic? It is completely understandable that this may raise questions. As with any medical treatment, there are important aspects and requirements that should be carefully considered to ensure the therapy can be carried out successfully.

This includes, in particular, a thorough evaluation of whether the treatment is suitable for you and whether there may be any factors that could speak against proceeding with it.

To support you in this decision-making process, we have clearly summarized the most important information for you. This allows you to carefully consider whether this therapy fits your personal situation and expectations.

Here you will find the requirements.

Question 2

What are the costs of treatment at the FertilityCare clinic?

Accepted Answer

For a full year of infertility diagnostics and treatment at the FertilityCare Clinic, you should expect an investment of approximately €4,000–6,000. This amount includes consultations, examinations, and medications for the entire year. The exact costs may vary depending on the intensity of the treatment process and individual needs.

For a full year of diagnostics and treatment of menstrual disorders at the FertilityCare Clinic, you should expect an investment of approximately €600–1,200. This amount includes consultations, examinations, and medications for the entire year. The exact costs may vary depending on the intensity of the treatment process and individual needs.

Question 3

What does the treatment process look like in practice?

Accepted Answer

Diagnostics Close to Home

For patients who have a longer travel distance, the FertilityCare Clinic has developed a special treatment concept. The goal is to avoid unnecessary travel without compromising medical quality. The process is individually tailored to your place of residence and personal situation, helping to keep travel and accommodation efforts to a minimum.

How Is the Process Structured?

In general, the treatment concept includes approximately four consultations per year: two appointments at the clinic and two online consultations. Each consultation lasts about 45 minutes and is part of the diagnostic evaluation as well as the creation or adjustment of your individual treatment plan.

In-Person Appointments at the Clinic

During appointments at the clinic, a gynecological examination and an ultrasound examination are performed. Particular attention is paid to possible abnormalities such as fibroids, cysts, or signs of endometriosis.

Any clinically relevant findings are carefully assessed and directly incorporated into the ongoing treatment plan, allowing the therapy to be continuously adapted to your individual situation.

In addition, the progress of ongoing treatments is reviewed. Depending on your personal situation, further examinations may be carried out, such as:

Hormone analyses
Ultrasound examinations (for example, to assess cycle development and ovulation)
Additional specialist evaluations if needed

Online Consultations

The online appointments are intended for discussing findings, monitoring progress, and evaluating the treatment. Adjustments to the treatment plan can be made directly without requiring another visit to the clinic.

This allows for continuous medical support while maintaining a high degree of flexibility in everyday life.

In this way, we combine the expertise of a specialized clinic with care that is tailored to your life, your location, and your personal schedule.

Question 4

How do I book an initial appointment at the FertilityCare clinic?

Accepted Answer

Scheduling your first consultation is simple and convenient online. With good preparation, you can ensure that the appointment is used efficiently and that a well-founded medical assessment can be made.

Step 1 — Book an Appointment via the Patient Portal

You can conveniently book your first appointment yourself through the online patient portal. There, you can flexibly choose a time that fits your schedule. Instructions portal

Initial consultations usually take place in person in Kleve. In exceptional cases – especially for patients traveling from a longer distance – the first consultation can also be conducted online.

If you would like an online appointment, please book a regular initial consultation and indicate during the booking process that you would like the consultation to take place online. You will then receive an access link by email.

This appointment lasts 45–60 minutes and will be billed by the hospital as a medical consultation.

Do You Have Questions in Advance?

If so, you may request a brief phone call with the physician via the contact button. You will then receive an appointment time and the clinic’s phone number. This conversation is free of charge.

Step 2 — Prepare Intake Forms and Medical Documents

Before your appointment, you will receive detailed intake/anamnesis forms as well as the fee agreement by email. Please complete all documents carefully and thoroughly and bring them with you to the appointment.

For an online appointment, it is important that you send the completed forms and all relevant medical documents by email in advance.

Important documents may include, for example:

Previous fertility diagnostic findings
Hormone laboratory results
Ultrasound reports
Medical reports or discharge letters from previous treatments
Information about previous therapies or medications

If you have any questions, Ms. Krüling from the secretariat will be happy to assist you.
You may contact the secretariat at any time by email: [email protected]

Question 5

How are diagnostics and treatment of the male partner carried out?

Accepted Answer

First, it is important to understand that an abnormal semen analysis does not automatically mean that pregnancy is impossible. In restorative reproductive medicine, there are many evidence-based approaches to improving male fertility. These include lifestyle optimization, hormonal therapy, antibiotic treatment when infections are present, and targeted use of micronutrients. Although fertility problems are often initially attributed to the woman, a male factor is present in approximately 30–50% of cases. Therefore, medical guidelines emphasize the importance of evaluating both partners simultaneously. Diagnostics in the male partner begin with a detailed medical history, including previous illnesses, medication use, and lifestyle factors. Smoking, alcohol consumption, nutrition, and stress are systematically assessed, as they can affect sperm quality. Sexual health and timing of intercourse are also discussed. The first key examination is a semen analysis, in which a sample is assessed for volume, concentration, motility, and morphology of sperm. If abnormalities are found, the test is usually repeated to improve reliability. Depending on the results, further specialized investigations may be required, such as hormonal testing, genetic analysis, evaluation of inflammation or infection, oxidative stress assessment, and imaging of the testes. The goal of further diagnostics is to identify underlying causes as precisely as possible, as targeted treatment can often significantly improve sperm quality and fertility. Treatment often begins with lifestyle measures, such as balanced nutrition, achieving a healthy weight, regular physical activity, smoking cessation, and reducing alcohol consumption. If specific abnormalities are identified, targeted treatment may be applied, such as hormonal therapy, antioxidant supplementation, or, in selected cases, surgical correction (e.g. varicocele). By improving the underlying factors, a significant increase in the chances of conception can often be achieved. For this reason, the FertilityCare clinic recommends early evaluation of both partners. Depending on the results, further diagnostics may take place within the clinic or in collaboration with urological or andrological specialists.

Question 6

How does ovulation induction work within FertilityCare?

Accepted Answer

Within restorative reproductive medicine, the focus is not on bypassing problems, but on understanding and treating the underlying causes. Instead of addressing symptoms alone, the aim is to determine what the body needs to restore hormonal balance. Fertility is viewed comprehensively. Hormonal imbalances, irregular or absent ovulation, conditions such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), as well as possible male factors, are assessed in relation to each other. Lifestyle, nutrition, and stress also play an important role in hormonal balance. In addition, less obvious factors such as inflammatory processes or metabolic disturbances may have an impact. This holistic perspective creates a detailed understanding of the individual fertility situation. If it becomes clear that ovulation does not occur regularly or spontaneously, ovulation induction may be a targeted and relatively accessible treatment option. In this approach, ovulation is stimulated or regulated using medication — always tailored to the individual cycle dynamics and hormonal situation. The goal is to support follicle development, improve hormonal balance, and precisely time ovulation so that the fertile window can be optimally utilized. Treatment takes place within a structured diagnostic framework, with the cycle at its center. Through systematic cycle tracking and additional investigations, hormonal patterns, ovulation timing, and possible disruptions are carefully assessed. Based on this, the therapy is individually planned and continuously adjusted. Depending on the cause and findings, different medications may be used: Letrozole is often used, particularly in women with PCOS, to stimulate follicle development by lowering estrogen levels and increasing FSH release. Clomiphene citrate stimulates the hypothalamus to increase FSH and LH production. Gonadotropins (injections) may be used if oral therapies are insufficient, providing stronger stimulation of the ovaries. Metformin may be used in cases of insulin resistance, especially in PCOS, to improve metabolic and hormonal balance. Ovulation may also be triggered with hCG. In the second half of the cycle, luteal phase support may be provided, for example with progesterone and, if necessary, estrogen or hCG, to support corpus luteum function and create optimal conditions for implantation. A key element of FertilityCare is the combination of medical treatment with detailed cycle tracking. Daily observation of body signals such as cervical mucus quality, cycle length, and additional parameters provides a continuous picture of hormonal processes. This allows precise identification of fertile days, monitoring of treatment effects, and early detection of deviations. This close integration of observation and treatment enables an individualized, physiologically based therapy. The goal is to achieve regular, high-quality ovulation, stabilize hormonal regulation, and sustainably improve the conditions for natural conception.

Question 7

How does cycle tracking support diagnostics?

Accepted Answer

Female fertility is cyclical and regulated by a finely tuned interaction of hormones. In each cycle, there is only a short window during which pregnancy can occur — the days around ovulation. The body provides natural signals that indicate this fertile phase, such as changes in cervical mucus, cycle length, and menstrual patterns. These signals reflect hormonal balance and the progression of the cycle. With FertilityCare, these signals are recorded daily and systematically. While an ultrasound or hormone measurement provides only a snapshot — a “photo” — cycle tracking offers a continuous overview, like a “film” of what happens throughout the entire cycle. This makes it possible to observe ongoing processes in the ovaries and uterus. As a result, abnormalities such as disrupted ovulation or hormonal imbalances can often be detected earlier and more precisely. These insights form the basis for targeted further diagnostics and individualized treatment, with the aim of stabilizing the cycle and improving the chances of natural conception.

Question 8

How does FertilityCare support you when trying to conceive?

Accepted Answer

When pregnancy does not occur, it often brings not only practical questions but also emotional strain. Thoughts such as “Is my body failing me?” or “Am I doing something wrong?” are common. Doubt, tension, and uncertainty may increase, especially when the cause is unclear. In this phase, FertilityCare can offer valuable support that is both medically grounded and personal. At its core is understanding your own cycle — not as an abstract concept, but as a biological process that becomes visible and understandable through the signals of your own body. Within FertilityCare, you learn to understand your cycle through daily observations. This includes monitoring cervical mucus, cycle length, and other physical signs. These observations are systematically recorded and provide a detailed picture of hormonal changes throughout the cycle. For example, the quality and changes in cervical mucus reflect estrogen activity and help identify the fertile phase. After ovulation, progesterone leads to a shift in the cycle pattern, making the transition to the non-fertile phase visible. Through these observations, a clear understanding of the different phases of the cycle emerges. This allows you to precisely identify fertile days and improve your chances of pregnancy. At the same time, you gain a deeper understanding of how your body functions, which often leads to greater confidence and trust. A key advantage of FertilityCare is that this knowledge does not remain isolated but forms the basis for targeted medical diagnostics and treatment. Through detailed cycle analysis, potential abnormalities can be detected earlier and more precisely, such as delayed or absent ovulation, a shortened luteal phase, or signs of hormonal imbalance. This allows investigations to be optimally timed and therapies — if needed — to be tailored to your individual cycle. In addition, factors that influence fertility are also taken into account, such as lifestyle, nutrition, stress, sleep, and overall health. These aspects play an important role in hormonal balance. Even small changes can have a positive effect on the cycle and overall well-being. The strength of this approach lies in the combination of medical expertise and personal support. You learn not only what is happening in your body, but also when and why. This enables you, together with your healthcare providers, to make informed decisions and move forward on your path to pregnancy with greater confidence and clarity.

Question 9

What is a miscarriage?

Accepted Answer

A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy within the first 16 weeks, most commonly within the first 12 weeks. After 16 weeks, it is referred to as stillbirth or intrauterine fetal death (IUFD), depending on the exact stage of pregnancy and medical context. For many women and couples, this is a profound and emotional experience. It often occurs unexpectedly, at a time when there is hope and anticipation. It is entirely understandable that this can lead to feelings of grief, uncertainty, and sometimes guilt. At the same time, it is important to know that miscarriage is relatively common: approximately 10–15% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. Although emotionally difficult, this does not necessarily mean that there is a permanent problem with fertility. In many cases, there is a medical explanation, and further investigation can help provide insight and reduce the risk of recurrence. Preventing miscarriage requires a broad and individualized approach. By looking not only at isolated symptoms but at the overall picture — including hormonal balance, cycle quality, and underlying medical factors — it is often possible to identify points for treatment. The multifactorial approach of FertilityCare, with a strong focus on improving cycle health, provides a targeted and evidence-based pathway to increasing the chances of a healthy and successful pregnancy.

Question 10

Which treatments are used in ovulation induction?

Accepted Answer

Ovulation induction treatment can vary depending on the underlying cause and the patient’s medical situation. The most common treatment options include: Clomiphene citrate (Clomid) — this oral medication is often used as a first-line treatment. It stimulates the hypothalamus to release more FSH and LH, allowing multiple follicles to mature and increasing the chance of ovulation. Gonadotropins (injections) — if clomiphene citrate is not effective, gonadotropins (injections of FSH and/or LH) may be used. These hormones directly stimulate the ovaries to produce eggs and are often prescribed when stronger stimulation is required, such as in women with reduced ovarian reserve. Letrozole — this medication is frequently used in women with PCOS, as it stimulates ovulation by reducing estrogen production, which increases FSH release. Metformin — in women with PCOS, metformin (a medication commonly used for diabetes) may be prescribed to improve insulin sensitivity and support ovulation.

Question 11

Does lifestyle play a role in fertility treatment?

Accepted Answer

A healthy, well-functioning cycle is central to fertility treatment. In addition to medical therapies, FertilityCare places strong emphasis on lifestyle factors, as these have a significant influence on hormonal balance and fertility. It is increasingly clear that aspects such as nutrition, physical activity, and stress management play an important role in fertility and in restoring regular ovulation. A healthy body weight is essential. Both underweight and overweight can disrupt hormonal balance and reduce the likelihood of ovulation. In certain cases, it may be beneficial to adjust weight in a responsible and guided manner. Other factors such as stress, sleep, physical activity, nutrition, smoking, and alcohol consumption are also taken into account. These lifestyle factors can significantly influence hormonal regulation and, therefore, the cycle and ovulation. Together, it is assessed which factors are relevant in your personal situation and where targeted improvements can be made. We support you with tailored strategies, evidence-based information, and individualized guidance on lifestyle and nutrition. Treatment is fully tailored to your situation and combines medical therapy with personal support. This creates a comprehensive approach aimed at stabilizing hormonal balance and improving the chances of a successful pregnancy.

Question 12

What does my menstrual cycle say about my health?

Accepted Answer

Many women ask themselves: “What does my menstrual cycle say about my health?” or “When are cycle-related symptoms still normal?” The menstrual cycle is an important indicator of hormonal balance and can provide valuable information about your overall health. Cycle-related symptoms are common and can appear in different ways. These may include menstrual pain, heavy or prolonged bleeding, premenstrual symptoms such as mood swings, irritability or low mood, menstrual migraines, fatigue, sleep problems, bloating, or breast tenderness. These symptoms may be mild, but they can also be strong enough to affect daily life. By systematically recording these symptoms within your cycle, it becomes clear when they occur and how they relate to hormonal fluctuations. This helps you recognize patterns and distinguish which symptoms are still within the normal range and which may point to a hormonal imbalance or other underlying factors. FertilityCare support focuses on carefully interpreting these cycle patterns and symptoms. This makes it clearer when observation is sufficient and when further diagnostics or treatment may be useful. In this way, your cycle becomes a valuable tool for better understanding and more specifically supporting your health.

Question 13

How does FertilityCare help you better understand your cycle?

Accepted Answer

Many women intuitively feel that their cycle influences how they feel, think, and function, but often lack the knowledge to truly understand these signals. FertilityCare is a scientifically grounded method that helps you understand your cycle and fertility from within. You learn to consciously observe your body’s biological signals, recognize patterns, and discover what is personally normal for you. This gives you insight into your fertile days and helps you plan the timing of a pregnancy more intentionally. “Why has no one ever explained this to me before?” is a question FertilityCare instructors often hear. Many women experience that their cycle affects their well-being, but they do not have the knowledge to interpret these changes systematically. FertilityCare offers a structured and scientifically grounded way to make the physiological processes of your cycle visible and understandable. By carefully observing and recording biomarkers, you learn to recognize patterns and identify possible abnormalities. This makes it possible not only to track your cycle, but also to analyse it. But FertilityCare is about more than fertility alone. It helps you look at your body with greater confidence and make informed choices about your health, your cycle, and your family planning. In a way, you learn to speak the “language” of your body — and above all, to understand it. This knowledge can be especially valuable if you experience symptoms such as irregular or painful cycles, have an unfulfilled desire to conceive, or feel uncertain about what your body is trying to tell you. This systematic approach is particularly helpful for symptoms such as irregular or painful cycles, subfertility, or uncertainty about physical signals. By charting the cycle, a more objective and medically grounded understanding of your hormonal health can emerge. What may sometimes feel as though your body is failing you can gradually become more understandable, predictable, and medically clearer.

Question 14

What happens during a cycle?

Accepted Answer

A menstrual cycle lasts on average between 25 and 35 days. Within this physiological range, variations are often normal. However, changes in regularity, duration, or pattern may be clinically relevant and deserve attention and observation. By systematically charting your cycle and associated symptoms, you gain insight into your personal cycle pattern. This helps you better distinguish normal variations from possible abnormalities, such as oligomenorrhea, polymenorrhea, or a persistently irregular cycle pattern. The menstrual cycle consists of three consecutive phases, regulated by a carefully coordinated interaction between brain and ovarian hormones, known as the HPO axis. These hormonal fluctuations influence not only the ovaries and uterus, but the entire body. They can affect energy levels, temperature regulation, mood, and physical sensations. In this way, the menstrual cycle forms an interconnected physiological process in which different body systems are closely linked through hormonal regulation. 1. Follicular phase The cycle begins with menstruation, during which the uterine lining is shed. Estrogen and progesterone levels are low, which may be associated with lower energy levels. In the ovary, an egg begins to mature within a follicle. This follicle produces estrogens, preparing the body for a possible pregnancy: the uterine lining thickens and cervical mucus changes. Estrogen gradually rises, and many women experience more energy, mental clarity, and an improved overall sense of well-being. 2. Ovulatory phase An LH surge triggers the release of the egg. During this phase, a woman may observe a typical vaginal discharge for several days: cervical mucus. Under the influence of estrogen from the mature follicle, this mucus becomes thinner, clearer, and more elastic. This mucus helps sperm pass through the cervix and can nourish them and prolong their survival. This change is often clearly recognizable because the mucus feels and looks different from other moments in the cycle. This is the most fertile phase of the cycle and is often accompanied by a feeling of increased vitality. 3. Luteal phase After ovulation, the follicle changes into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. This hormone further prepares the body for a possible pregnancy by supporting the uterine lining and closing the cervix. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum disappears, hormone production drops, and the uterine lining is shed — the new cycle begins. By understanding and carefully observing bodily signals, or “biomarkers,” relevant deviations can be recognized early and treated if necessary.

Question 15

What can you do to reduce the risk of miscarriage?

Accepted Answer

Preconception care Preventing a miscarriage is not always possible, but in many cases the risk can be reduced through a targeted and individualized approach. The Dutch Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends additional testing in cases of recurrent miscarriage to identify possible underlying causes, such as hormonal, genetic, anatomical, and clotting-related factors. Within the FertilityCare approach, the focus is on optimizing natural fertility before conception. The menstrual cycle is considered the key starting point. Through systematic cycle monitoring, hormonal patterns are mapped in detail, including follicle development, the timing and quality of ovulation, and hormonal balance in the luteal phase. Abnormalities such as suboptimal ovulation or progesterone deficiency can thus be detected early. When ovulation is disrupted or absent, ovulation induction may be used. This is a treatment in which ovulation is medically stimulated to achieve a more regular and higher-quality ovulation. This can contribute to improved cycle structure and an increased chance of healthy conception. In addition to hormonal factors, possible disturbances in the vaginal and endometrial microbiome are also assessed. If there are indications of immunological imbalance — both within the reproductive system and systemically — these are treated where necessary to improve the immune environment. Based on these insights, an individualized treatment plan is developed. This may include hormonal support, ovulation induction, or optimization of the luteal phase. Depending on the situation, additional investigations may also be performed into thyroid function, metabolic health (such as insulin resistance), clotting, the immune system, and the microbiome. The goal is to optimize the hormonal and biological conditions for a healthy conception as much as possible. Therapy during pregnancy After a positive pregnancy test, care focuses on supporting a stable course of pregnancy, particularly in the early phase when implantation and placental development take place. Scientific research and clinical observations show that physiological levels of estrogen and progesterone are associated with more favorable pregnancy outcomes. These hormonal reference values form the basis when considering possible supplementation. When support is indicated, the duration and dosage of hormone supplementation are determined individually and tailored to the clinical course and the patient’s needs. Care also includes regular monitoring, such as ultrasound examinations and laboratory testing, to track pregnancy development and make timely adjustments when necessary. In addition, preconceptionally identified and treated factors are taken into account. Treatments initiated before pregnancy — for example for thyroid disorders, clotting disorders, or immune-related conditions — are continued during pregnancy if indicated and adjusted as needed. The approach is always individualized and based on medical history, previous pregnancy outcomes, and the course of the current pregnancy, with the aim of supporting the most stable and optimal pregnancy progression possible.

Question 16

How does a miscarriage occur?

Accepted Answer

A miscarriage is usually caused by a combination of medical factors. Genetic abnormalities in the embryo may play a role. According to the Dutch Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, this is often due to an error in the distribution of chromosomes during fertilization. This typically occurs by chance and is, in most cases, not hereditary. In addition, the quality of the menstrual cycle plays an important role in both the occurrence and maintenance of a pregnancy. A disrupted cycle may indicate underlying hormonal problems that increase the risk of miscarriage. For example, poor egg quality may lead to chromosomal abnormalities during conception and problems with implantation. Inadequate ovulation may result in lower progesterone production, a hormone essential for supporting the uterine lining. A shortened luteal phase (the period after ovulation) may also prevent proper implantation or development of a pregnancy. By closely monitoring the cycle and measuring hormone levels at specific times, these abnormalities can be identified and treated in a targeted way. In addition to hormonal and cycle-related factors, structural abnormalities of the uterus may also play a role. These include congenital malformations, fibroids (myomas), or adhesions that can interfere with implantation or the growth of a pregnancy. Furthermore, immunological and clotting disorders, such as antiphospholipid syndrome, are known causes. These can disrupt blood flow to the placenta. In cases of recurrent miscarriage, immunological factors are also considered, where the immune system may play a role. Other underlying conditions such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also increase the risk of miscarriage. For this reason, we do not look at individual symptoms in isolation, but consider the overall picture of immunological factors, hormonal regulation, and cycle quality. In modern reproductive medicine, increasing attention is also being given to the microbiome of the reproductive system. This refers to the bacterial composition of the vagina and the uterine lining. International research, including the ReceptIVFity cohort studies at Erasmus MC in Rotterdam, suggests a possible link between a healthy environment and improved implantation. Lifestyle also plays a crucial role. Factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, overweight, sleep deprivation, and chronic stress can negatively affect both fertility and pregnancy outcomes. A healthy lifestyle — including sufficient rest, balanced nutrition, and stress reduction — helps restore hormonal balance and creates an optimal environment for a developing pregnancy.

Question 17

Where can I find more information about the scientific background?

Accepted Answer

More information about the scientific foundation of the FertilityCare method and restorative reproductive medicine can be found on this page in the form of in-depth content and additional materials.

You can also explore the international academic centre International Institute for Restorative Reproductive Medicine (IIRRM), where research, education, and clinical practice are closely connected. Current scientific insights are gathered, evaluated, and applied in practice there.

Natural procreative technology for infertility and recurrent miscarriage 2012

Natural procreative technology – a multifactorial approach to the chronic problem of infertility

International NaProTechnology Evaluation and Surveillance of Treatment for Infertility and Miscarriage (iNEST)

Outcomes From Treatment of Infertility With Natural Procreative Technology in an Irish General Practice

Exploration of the Effectiveness of NaProTechnology in Women’s Healthcare 2020

Exploration of the Effectiveness of NaProTechnology in Women’s Healthcare (2020)

Successful pregnancy with restorative reproductive medicine after 16 years of infertility, three recurrent miscarriages, and eight unsuccessful embryo transfers with in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection: a case report 2020

On Natural Fertility – Interview with Dr. Susanne van der Velden (2022, Dutch)

FertilityCare on video

Video material is also available, explaining the method and its scientific background in an accessible way.

Restorative Reproductive Medicine

Question 18

How does the FertilityCare course work?

Accepted Answer

The course begins with a non-binding introductory session, during which the method is explained step by step using a presentation. This meeting provides time to explain the approach, answer questions, and explore together what the method could mean for you.

This is followed by a course consisting of eight private sessions. These can take place either online or in person. During this phase, you will gradually learn how to observe, record, and interpret your cycle according to the FertilityCare method.

There is a strong focus on personal guidance, ensuring that the method fits well into your daily life.

As the course progresses, the content is further deepened and adapted to your personal situation — for example, in cases of a desire to conceive, cycle-related symptoms, breastfeeding, or the transition into perimenopause.

The course is not a standalone program, but part of a broader medical-diagnostic approach. It serves as both a foundation for understanding your cycle and a starting point for further care, where medical treatment and personal guidance are closely aligned.

To get started, you can contact one of the FertilityCare instructors for an introductory meeting.

Question 19

How does FertilityCare help with PMS, PMDD, and mood-related symptoms?

Accepted Answer

FertilityCare is a suitable method for the diagnosis and treatment of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and cycle-related mood symptoms. Many women notice that symptoms such as irritability, low mood, anxiety, fatigue, or physical discomfort recur monthly, but the connection with the cycle is not always clear. By carefully tracking the menstrual cycle and hormonal changes across its phases, it becomes clearer why symptoms often occur in the second half of the cycle. At the same time, this observation helps identify recurring patterns, for example when mood swings, crying spells, or mental fatigue consistently occur in the same phase. Within FertilityCare, the cycle is not only tracked but also systematically analysed. Through structured observation and guidance, you learn to better understand your body’s signals and place them in context. This often brings recognition and relief: symptoms are not “imagined,” but frequently have a clear hormonal and physical basis. This cycle knowledge forms the foundation for targeted diagnostics. Depending on the symptoms, additional laboratory testing may be performed, such as hormone levels (e.g. estradiol and progesterone), thyroid function, prolactin, cortisol, and metabolic markers. Based on these insights, an individual treatment plan is developed. If needed, medication may be used, such as bioidentical hormones like progesterone in the luteal phase in cases of deficiency or imbalance. If hormonal factors are not the primary cause, other contributors are considered, such as stress, sleep disturbances, HPA-axis dysregulation, or metabolic imbalances, which can be treated accordingly. Nutrition, targeted micronutrient supplementation, and lifestyle factors such as sleep, exercise, and stress regulation also play an important role, as they have a proven effect on hormonal balance and emotional well-being. The FertilityCare approach is structured and fully tailored to your individual situation, within a gynecological-endocrinological framework. Diagnostics and treatment are closely coordinated and regularly evaluated. The goal is a sustainable reduction of symptoms and restoration of emotional balance, based on a better understanding of your body and a medically grounded treatment approach.

Question 20

How does FertilityCare help with menopausal symptoms?

Accepted Answer

During perimenopause, cycle observation can also provide valuable insight into what is happening in the body. Menstruation often becomes lighter and more irregular, mood swings less predictable, and symptoms such as fatigue, inner restlessness, insomnia, and concentration difficulties may increase. Weight fluctuations and changes in body shape can also affect self-image. In a time of many changes, this understanding can offer important support. By systematically tracking these changes, a clearer understanding of the natural course of hormonal transition emerges. This helps distinguish normal physiological changes from symptoms that may require further diagnostics or treatment. Depending on the symptoms, a wide range of individualized treatment options is available. These take into account not only the nature and severity of symptoms, but also personal needs during this life phase, daily life impact, medical history, and individual risk factors. If necessary, hormonal therapy may be considered, often in the form of bioidentical hormones such as estradiol and progesterone. These correspond to the body’s own hormones and can help reduce symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep problems, and mood changes. Together, it is carefully evaluated whether such treatment is appropriate, taking into account medical history, personal risks, and preferences. Existing conditions such as cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, or bone health are also considered in treatment. Care takes place under gynecological-endocrinological supervision to ensure safe and well-considered diagnostics and treatment. If hormonal therapy is not suitable or desired, non-hormonal alternatives are also available. These may include certain medications, as well as complementary approaches such as phytotherapy and targeted use of micronutrients. Lifestyle guidance also plays an important role. Nutrition, sleep, stress management, and physical activity can make a significant difference to overall well-being. All steps are coordinated together to create a treatment approach that is both medically sound and aligned with your personal situation and needs in this life phase.

Question 21

How does FertilityCare help with endometriosis?

Accepted Answer

Many women with endometriosis experience symptoms such as severe menstrual pain, pelvic pain, pain during or after intercourse, and symptoms such as fatigue or a heavy, bloated feeling. By systematically tracking these symptoms within your cycle using FertilityCare, it becomes clear in which phases they occur and how they relate to hormonal changes. This insight can serve as the basis for further medical guidance. Together with your doctor, your cycle data and symptom patterns are reviewed to assess whether additional diagnostic testing is needed, for example to better visualize endometriosis or rule out other causes. Based on this, a personalized treatment plan can be developed. This may include medical treatments such as hormonal therapy or pain management, and, if necessary, further specialist care. At the same time, attention is given to improving your overall cycle health and reducing symptoms in daily life. In this way, a coherent approach is created in which your experience is central. Your symptoms are not viewed in isolation, but in relation to your cycle, allowing for step-by-step progress toward greater understanding, stability, and targeted treatment.

Question 22

What if my cycle is not "just something to put up with"?

Accepted Answer

Many women experience a wide range of symptoms related to their menstrual cycle. These can vary from spotting or irregular bleeding patterns to long or very short cycles, heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), or very light periods. Painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea) is also common, often accompanied by lower abdominal cramps, back pain, nausea, or pain radiating to the legs. In addition, many symptoms occur during the luteal phase — the days or weeks before menstruation. These may include irritability, low mood, anxiety, mood swings, increased sensitivity to stress, fatigue, sleep problems, and cognitive symptoms such as difficulty concentrating or “brain fog” (PMS or, in more severe cases, PMDD). Other common symptoms include migraines, headaches, breast tenderness, fluid retention, and bloating, often following a cyclical pattern. When these symptoms recur consistently or affect quality of life, they may indicate an underlying hormonal imbalance or other gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, PCOS, or ovulatory disorders. FertilityCare supports the systematic tracking of these symptoms in relation to the cycle, allowing patterns to become visible and better understood. This forms the basis for further clinical evaluation. Depending on the findings, different medical treatment options may be considered, following a step-by-step, medically grounded approach in which symptoms are not viewed in isolation, but in connection with the cycle.

Your treatment at FertilityCare

We determine the underlying cause and treat it accordingly.

How does it work?

In the Netherlands: ask your GP for a referral.

Book your appointment

Complete your intake forms

First consultation

Praktische informatie

Frequently asked questions about the approach