1. When do you ovulate? 

The average cycle lasts 28 days. Ovulation occurs 12 to 16 days prior to the first day of your next menstruation. The exact date of ovulation can only be determined retrospectively. 

2. What time of the month are you most fertile? 

If you know when you ovulate, then you can also calculate your 'fertile window'. You’re most fertile on the day of ovulation and the 2 days preceding it. You’re also fertile 3 to 5 days prior to ovulation, however there’s less chance of getting pregnant at this time of the month. And your chance of conceiving the day after ovulation is extremely small. 

3. What’s the difference between a fertility test and a pregnancy test?

A fertility or ovulation test determines when you’re most fertile. The test is extremely accurate and reliable.

If you suspect that you’re pregnant, you can perform a pregnancy test prior to visiting your doctor. That test is also extremely reliable.

How do the tests work and how much do they cost? Read more here

* The price varies per brand.

4. Should you undergo a medical examination before pregnancy? 

• Visiting a gynaecologist and/or doctor before you start trying for a baby is certainly a good idea. The doctor can check your general health (fitness, weight and blood pressure), vaccination records, and your immunity to toxoplasmosis and cytomegalovirus (CMV).
• Do you take medication? Notify your doctor of your wish to become pregnant and discuss which medications you can and can't continue to take.
• Certain illnesses or complaints require additional consideration during pregnancy, such as diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure and epilepsy etc. Always discuss your baby plans with your doctor in advance.
• The risk of a hereditary disorder is relatively small. However, you should always discuss any hereditary diseases in your family or of your partner with your doctor.  

5. What if your attempts to get pregnant don't (immediately) succeed? 

No matter how badly you wish to get pregnant, nature always has the final say. Conceiving a child is more difficult for some couples than it is for others.

• Did you know that it’s perfectly normal not to conceive straight away? On average it takes one year.
• If you’re under 35 years of age, have a normal menstrual cycle and are having regular sexual intercourse, then you simply need to be patient. After a year of failing to conceive, you can visit your doctor.
• If you’re older than 35, then it’s best to visit the gynaecologist after six months.
• Gay couples, women with an irregular cycle and singles should make an appointment with the gynaecologist immediately.
• Your doctor will investigate the cause of your fertility problems and refer you to a fertility centre. Various treatments are available: artificial insemination or IUI, IVF, ICSI or egg donation. You can find more information about these treatments here. 

The Vzw De Verdwaalde Ooievaar and Vzw Kinderwens associations provide support for those who are unable to have children. Their websites contain a wealth of information on fertility treatments and feature a number of testimonials. They can also put you in touch with those in a similar situation.

The moment that you’ve longed for has finally arrived: there’s a real living being growing inside you. You and your partner are over the moon. Yet at the same time, you also realise that there’s a lot to organise before your baby’s due date. Below are some of the things you can arrange before you start drowning in nappies. 

Child benefit

Every child born in Flanders is entitled to the Growth Package, which comprises a starting amount and a basic monthly amount. Those living in Brussels and Wallonia are also entitled to a baby bonus and a monthly allowance. You need to apply for this allowance in order to receive it. This can be done quickly and easily via our handy online tool. 

Apply for Maternity Fee  

Apply for Child Benefit

You needn’t wait for the birth of your child: you can already submit your request during pregnancy. You will consequently receive the starting amount 2 months prior to your due date.  

Nursery or childminder 

Don't wait too long to register your child in a suitable childcare facility. Demand is high! 

Maternity and/or parental leave 

Notify your employer. Make all the necessary arrangements pertaining to maternity and/or parental leave with your employer's HR department.  

Health insurance provider 

Don't forget to notify your health insurance provider. They’re responsible for paying your maternity benefit throughout your maternity leave. After giving birth, supply them with a copy of your child's birth certificate to enable them to calculate your maternity leave end date. 

Hospitalisation insurance 

Check that your hospitalisation insurance is still valid! Particularly if you’re planning to give birth in a hospital. It’s also advisable to register in advance at a hospital of your choice. 

Declaration of parentage  

If you’re not married and you want your baby to receive the father’s surname, the father needs to formally acknowledge your child. To arrange this, you both need to visit the town hall together at some point during your pregnancy.