An unfulfilled wish to have children affects about one in six couples in the Netherlands and is often accompanied by stress and a reduced quality of life. This thesis explores how digital healthcare can contribute to better, more patient-centered support. Our research shows that patients are very satisfied with video consultations: an online intake combined with a video consultation is just as effective as a traditional in-person appointment. In addition, a new smartphone app was developed to provide patients with personalized information and guidance from the first steps of fertility testing at the general practitioner. Users were enthusiastic about the app and felt better informed. Moreover, the app encouraged action: more than half of the participants made lifestyle changes based on the personalized advice they received. Digital healthcare can therefore be a valuable addition to existing fertility care.
Hilde Grens (born 1994) obtained her master’s degree in Medicine from Radboud University in 2019. She began her PhD research while gaining clinical experience as a fertility doctor at the Jeroen Bosch Hospital. Starting in March 2026, she will begin her training to become a general practitioner.