Posts by Marta Wais MD
Fertility in Ontario: A 2026 Guide
Understanding fertility, infertility, available treatments, and Ontario funding from the experts What Is Fertility? Fertility refers to the natural ability to conceive a child through unassisted reproduction. In biological terms, it involves the regular production of healthy eggs and sperm, successful fertilization, and implantation of the embryo in the uterus. For individuals and couples in…
Read MoreWhat are infertility treatments? Comparing your options for timed intercourse, IUI & IVF
Part 5, Podium & Parenthood: Fertility & family planning webinar series Updated September 27, 2026. Presented by Markham Fertility Centre in partnership with Canadian Sport Institute Ontario (CSIO). Infertility affects approximately 1 in 6 couples in Canada (Government of Canada, 2021), making it one of the most common reproductive health challenges faced today. The emotional, physical, and…
Read MoreWhat is Third-Party Reproduction?: Egg donor, sperm donor, embryo donor & surrogacy or gestational carrier
Part 4, Podium & Parenthood: Fertility & family planning webinar series Presented by Markham Fertility Centre in partnership with Canadian Sport Institute Ontario (CSIO). Third-party reproduction refers to fertility treatments in which a third person (someone other than the intended parent or parents) is involved in helping to conceive or carry a child. This option is becoming increasingly common for…
Read More7 things you need to know about surrogacy or gestational carriers in Ontario
An interview with Stefanie McGlynn, Donor & Surrogacy Specialist at Markham Fertility Centre What is a surrogate or gestational carrier? A surrogate or gestational carrier is a person who carries a pregnancy on behalf of intended parents. The distinction lies in how the pregnancy is established: Gestational surrogacy is the most common approach today because…
Read MoreWhat is Fertility Preservation? 5 Things You Need To Know
Part 2, Podium & Parenthood: Fertility & family planning webinar series Presented by Markham Fertility Centre in partnership with the Canadian Sport Institute Ontario (CSIO). As athletes extend their careers well into their 30s and beyond, family planning becomes a more pressing and personal consideration. With increasing awareness of how fertility changes over time, it’s…
Read More7 facts about prenatal screening (eFTS, NIPT) and Trisomy 13, 18 & 21
Prenatal screening options explained by the experts At Markham Fertility Centre, we have a dedicated genetics program, led by Diane Myles-Reid, Genetic Counsellor and former President of the Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors. In this post we will cover; What is Prenatal Screening? Prenatal screening is a type of genetic testing offered to all pregnant…
Read MoreWhat is fertility or infertility? 8 common questions answered
Part 1, Podium & Parenthood: Fertility & family planning webinar series Whether you’re just starting to consider growing your family or have been trying for some time, understanding the basics of fertility is empowering. This conversation, inspired by a recent educational session hosted by Markham Fertility Centre and the Canadian Sport Institute Ontario, breaks down…
Read MoreMarijuana and Fertility: Facts you need to know
The impact of marijuana on eggs, sperm, pregnancy & breastfeeding As the legalization of marijuana spreads and its use becomes more commonplace, many individuals and couples embarking on the journey to parenthood are seeking clarity on its potential effects on fertility and pregnancy. With studies yielding mixed results and public perception often varying from scientific…
Read More7 things you need to know about intrauterine insemination (IUI)
The IUI process, benefits and success rates Fertility treatments include a range of options for individuals and couples on their journey to parenthood. Among these options, intrauterine insemination (IUI) stands out as a minimally invasive, affordable, and effective procedure for addressing certain fertility challenges. Whether you’re encountering unexplained infertility, mild male factor issues, or simply…
Read MoreLGBTQ family Planning: A journey of two fathers building a family
In honour of Pride Month June 2024, we interviewed Jason and Daniel, a same-sex male couple, about their fertility journey. This interview covers what to expect on this journey, timelines as well as considerations for using donor egg, and gestational carriers. Let’s begin. Tell us about your family and your journey towards starting a family.…
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