Athanasios Gekas is an Obstetrician-Gynecologist and has been exclusively involved in the investigation and treatment of infertility since 2010. During this time, he has collaborated with the largest Assisted Reproduction Units in the United Kingdom and Greece.

The doctor graduated from the Medical School of the University of Ioannina and obtained the specialization of Obstetrician-Gynecologist at the Aretaieio Hospital of the University of Athens. In 2008, he began his postgraduate training in recognized hospitals in the United Kingdom (Kings College Hospital, West Middlesex Hospital), and from 2010, he specialized in infertility issues and in vitro fertilization at the internationally renowned Hammersmith Hospital in London.

Subsequently, during the years 2012-2013, he worked as a specialist in infertility issues at the private infertility center Create in London, which is a reference center in the United Kingdom for women with low ovarian reserves and for in vitro fertilization with natural or modified natural cycles. From 2016 to 2019, he worked at the University Hospital of Larissa as an Academic Fellow in Gynecological Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction.

He maintains a private gynecological clinic in Larissa from 2014 to the present day.

Accreditations

1. Certification in gynecological ultrasound and assisted reproduction by the British Fertility Society (British Fertility Society).
2. License to perform specialized obstetrics-gynecology ultrasounds from the Greek Ministry of Health.
3. Certification in colposcopy from the Greek Society of Cervical and Colposcopic Pathology.
4. Instructor in the program for managing emergency obstetric situations ALSO (Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics)

Ms. Bouhlariotou Sofia is a specialized Obstetrician-Gynecologist in Human Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology. Her comprehensive postgraduate training at the University Hospital of Aachen, Germany, along with the official recognition of her specialization title by the German Society for Reproductive Medicine (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Reproduktionsmedizin), makes her one of the few certified specialists in the field of Assisted Reproduction. She holds a Doctorate and served as a Lecturer at the Democritus University of Thrace.

The doctor graduated from the Medical School of Ioannina in 2000 and obtained the specialization title in Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2009 from the University Hospital of Alexandroupoli. From 2009 to 2010, she worked as a Medical Doctor in the position of a Resident at the Gynecological-Obstetric Clinic of St. Clemens Hospital Sterkrade (Oberhausen, Germany) under the direction of Professor Dr. C. Böing, with a focus on Gynecological Laparoscopic Surgery.

From 2010 and for a period of three (3) years, she worked as a specialized doctor with responsibilities as a Resident in the Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction at the University Hospital of Aachen, Germany, under the direction of Professor Dr. J. Neulen. This is one of the few University Clinics in Germany with a particularly strong presence in both the fields of Assisted Reproduction and Gynecological and Adolescent Endocrinology. The doctor’s active participation in the clinic’s activities also included a significant number of endoscopic surgeries as part of the investigation and treatment of infertility.

On 23/05/2013, following successful completion of the required examinations by the German Medical Association (Ärztekammer Nordrhein), she was awarded the title of Specialist in Assisted Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology.

On 20/1/2004, she was assigned the preparation of a Doctoral Thesis at the Medical School of the University of Thessaly, with the topic: ‘Correlation of the cardiac rhythm of arterial pressure with renal function disorders, vascular endothelium function, and melatonin secretion in patients with preeclampsia,’ which was completed on 31-10-2008 with a grade of excellence (Supervisor: Professor of Nephrology, Mr. I. Stefanidis).

With her return to Greece, she was appointed as a Lecturer at the Democritus University of Thrace on 16-12-2013, where she served in her educational role until 2018.

In parallel, since 2013, she has been operating a private Obstetrics-Gynecology Clinic in Larissa, having established herself as a respected scientist in the field of Assisted Reproduction in Thessaly.

The doctor has published scientific papers in international and Greek scientific journals and has participated in numerous conferences in Greece and abroad with the aim of staying updated in the field of Human Reproduction.

SCIENTIFIC PAPERS PUBLISHED IN INTERNATIONAL JOURNALS

1. Melatonin secretion is impaired in women with preeclampsia and an abnormal circadian blood pressure rhythm.
   Bouchlariotou S, Liakopoulos V, Giannopoulou M, Arampatzis S, Eleftheriadis T, Mertens PR, Zintzaras E, Messinis IE, Stefanidis I.
   Ren Fail. 2014 Aug;36(7):1001-7

2. Uterine prolapse in pregnancy: risk factors, complications and management.
   Tsikouras P, Dafopoulos A, Vrachnis N, Iliodromiti Z, Bouchlariotou S, Pinidis P, Tsagias N, Liberis V, Galazios G, Von Tempelhoff GF.
   J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2014 Feb;27(3):297-302. Review.

3. Endometrial cancer: molecular and therapeutic aspects.
   Tsikouras P, Bouchlariotou S, Vrachnis N, Dafopoulos A, Galazios G, Csorba R, von Tempelhoff GF.
   Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2013 Jul;169(1):1-9. Review.
4. Women with one ovary in assisted reproduction technologies: a review of the literature.
   Bouchlariotou S, Tsikouras P, Rösing B, Neulen
   J. Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2012 Oct;286(4):1041-7.Review.
5. Fertility sparing in cancer patients.
   Bouchlariotou S, Tsikouras P, Benjamin R, Neulen J. Minim Invasive Ther Allied Technol. 2012 Jul;21(4):282-92.

6. Turner’s syndrome and pregnancy: has the 45,X/47,XXX mosaicism a different prognosis? Own clinical experience and literature review.
   Bouchlariotou S, Tsikouras P, Dimitraki M, Athanasiadis A, Papoulidis I, Maroulis G, Liberis A, Liberis V.
   J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2011 May;24(5):668-72. Review.

7. Prenatal assessment of arthrogryposis. A review of the literature.
   Dimitraki M, Tsikouras P, Bouchlariotou S, Dafopoulos A, Konstantou E, Liberis V.
   J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2011 Jan;24(1):32-6. Review.
8. Acute abdomen as initial presentation of gestational choriocarcinoma.
   Liberis V, Bouchlariotou S, Ammari A, Psillaki A, Ntatidou M, Sivridis E, Dislian V, Koutlaki N.
   Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2009 Nov;280(5):859-62.
9. Undiagnosed maternal phenylketonuria: own clinical experience and literature review.
   Bouchlariotou S, Tsikouras P, Maroulis G.
   J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2009 Oct;22(10):943-8 Review.
10. Nocturnal hypertension is associated with an exacerbation of the endothelial damage in preeclampsia.
    Bouchlariotou S, Liakopoulos V, Dovas S, Giannopoulou M, Kiropoulos T, Zarogiannis S, Gatselos G, Zachopoulos T, Kyriakou DS, Kallitsaris A, Messinis I, Stefanidis I.
    Am J Nephrol. 2008;28(3):424-30.
11. Gross calcification of the small bowel in a continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patient with sclerosing peritonitis.
    Poultsidi A, Liakopoulos V, Eleftheriadis T, Zarogiannis S, Bouchlariotou S, Stefanidis I. Adv Perit Dial. 2006;22:104-7.

1. Timotheou E, Chartomatsidou T, Kostoglou K, Papa E, Ioakeimidou C, Najdecki R, Papanikolaou E. The correlation of first cleavage and blastulation timing to the euploid status of embryos after PGT-A. ESHRE Annual Meeting, 2021 (poster presentation)
2. Najdecki R, Papanikolaou E, Chartomatsidou T, Pakaki F, Stamataki S, Tatsi P, Timotheou E,  Chouliara F, Bampas E, Bouchlariotou S, Michos G, Athanasiadis A. Hysteroscopic Fundus Endometrial Incision (FEI) in oocyte recipients before embryo transfer (ET) during In Vitro Fertilization. ESHRE Annual Meeting, 2020 (oral presentation)
3. Papanikolaou E, Najdecki R, Chouliara F, Tatsi P, Chartomatsidou T , Pakaki F, Stamataki S , Ioakeimidou C, Timologou A, Vlachou C, Diamantopoulos A, Virgiliou A, Kaminski P, Athanasiadis A, Timotheou E. Post Implantation failure diagnostic Hysteroscopy with Endometrial Fundus Incision (FEI) might improve pregnancy outcome in oocyte recipients. ESHRE Annual Meeting, 2020 (poster presentation)
4. Tatsi P, Chartomatsidou T, Papanikolaou E, Najdecki R, Chouliara F, Asuchidou I, Ioakeimidou C,  Timotheou E. The impact of Vitrification in the outcome of IVF in an oocyte donation program. ESHRE Annual Meeting, 2020 (poster presentation)
5. Davies S, Christopikou D, Kallioras N, Tsakalis P, Tsorva E, Zaxaria S, Economou K, Najdecki R, Timotheou E, Tatsi P, Chartomatsidou T, Papanikopoulos E, Lagaros N, Mastrominas M, Papanikolaou E. Applied machine learning based on time-lapse technology and reproductive history data designed for pre-implantation embryo ploidy prediction. ESHRE Annual Meeting, 2020 (poster presentation)
6. Papanikolaou E, Timotheou E, Tatsi P, Chartomatsidou T, Asouchidou I, Grynberg M, Vlachou C, Katsoula E, Najdecki R. Long-Antagonist protocol versus Classical-day-6 Antagonist. Single luteal use of long-acting GnRH-antagonist Degarelix can efficiently downregulate LH during ovarian stimulation for IVF achieving comparable pregnancy outcome. ESHRE Annual Meeting, Vienna 2019 (oral presentation)
7. Najdecki R, Choulaira F, Timotheou E, Tatsi P, Chartomatsidou T, Asouchidou E, Pakaki F, Bouchlariotou S, Humaidan P, Papanikolaou E. Single follicular degarelix, a new long acting GnRH-antagonist for LH surge suppression during ovarian stimulation in oocyte donors. A randomised controlled trial. ESHRE Annual Meeting, Vienna 2019 (oral presentation)
8. Timotheou E, Chartomatsidou T, Tatsi P, Katsoula E, Vlachou C, Stamataki S, Asouchidou I, Zafeiratis O, Najdecki R, Papanikolaou E. Cumulative Live Birth Rates (CLBR) in patients following Freeze-all policy are higher compared to patients who undergo fresh embryotransfer (ET) followed by frozen-thawed embryotransfers. ESHRE Annual Meeting, Vienna 2019 (poster presentation)
9. Papanikolaou E, Chartomatsidou T, Timotheou E, Tatsi P, Katsoula E, Vlachou C, Asouchidou I, Zafeiratis O, Najdecki R. In Freeze-All Strategy, Cumulative Live Birth Rate (CLBR) Is Increasing According to the Number of Blastocysts Formed in Women <40 Undergoing Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). Front Endocrinol. 2019; 10 (427) https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fendo.2019.00427/full
10. Papanikolaou EG, Timotheou E, Tatsi P, Janssens H, Grynberg M, Athanasiadis A, Zafeirati C, Najdecki R, Petousis S. COMFFETI, Combined Fresh and Frozen Embryo Transfers per Indvidual: A New Index of Quality Control for the Performance of Embryologic Labs in The Emerging Era of Segmentation of Cycle and Freeze- All Strategy. Int J Fertil Steril. 2019; 12(4): 339-342 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30291697
11. Papanikolaou EG, Yarali H, Timotheou E, Grynberg M, Zafeiratis O, Tournaye H and Najdecki R. A Proof-of-Concept Clinical Trial of A Single Luteal Use of Long-Acting Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Antagonist Degarelix in Controlled Ovarian Stimulation for In Vitro Fertilization: Long Antagonist Protocol. Front. Endocrine. 2018. 9:25. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00025   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5839166/
12. Papanikolaou EG, Yarali H, Timotheou E, Tatsi, P, Chartomatsidou T, Grynberg M, Zafeiratis O, Vlachou C, Tournaye H  and Najdecki R. Long-Antagonist protocol; single luteal use of long-acting GnRH-antagonist Degarelix can efficiently downregulate LH during ovarian stimulation for IVF. A proof of concept. ESHRE Annual Meeting, Barcelona 2018 (Award nominee)
13. Chartomatsidou T, Timotheou E, Tatsi P, Katsoula E, Zafeiratis O, Najdecki R, Papanikolaou E. In Freeze-all strategy Cumulative Live Birth Rate (CLBR) is increasing according to the number of blastocysts formed in women <40 undergoing Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). ESHRE Annual Meeting, Barcelona 2018
14. Papanikolaou E, Timotheou E, Tatsi P, Chartomatsidou T, Najdecki R. Long-Antagonist protocol; luteal administration of a single dose of Degarelix (long-acting GnRH-antagonist) for controlled ovarian stimulation. A new protocol for IVF. ASRM Scientific Congress & Expo, Denver, Colorado, 2018
15. Mumusoglu S, Uzbek IY, Sokmensuer LK, Polat M, Bozdag G, Papanikolaou E, Yarali H. Duration of blastulation may be associated with ongoing pregnancy rate in single euploid blastocyst transfer cycles. Reproductive Biomedicine Online 2017: 35 (6): 633-639    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28958703
16. Papanikolaou E. and Najdecki R. Role of Antagonists in human IVF: The tool for a safer and more patient friendly IVF. Handbook of In Vitro Fertilisation. 4th Edition. 2017. Edited by DK Gardner and C Simon. CRC Press
17. Kyrou D, R.Najdecki, E.Pagou, E.Katsoula, Papanikolaou EG. Corifollitropin alpha combined combined with GnRh agonist triggering appears to be safe and efficient option in oocyte donation cycles a prospective longitudinal study. Fertility&Sterility 2015:104;325-326
18. Papanikolaou EG, Kyrou D, Zervakakou G, Paggou E, Humaidan P. «Follicular HCG endometrium priming for IVF patients experiencing resisting thin endometrium. A proof of concept study». J Assist Reprod Genet. 2013 Oct;30(10):1341-5.    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3824855/
19. Fatemi HM, Polyzos NP, van Vaerenbergh I, Bourgain C, Blockeel C, Alsbjerg B, Papanikolaou EG, Humaidan P. Early luteal phase endocrine profile is affected by the mode of triggering final oocyte maturation and the luteal phase support used in recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone-gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist in vitro fertilization cycles. Fertil Steril. 2013 Sep;100(3):742-7.
20. Humaidan P, Polyzos NP, Alsbjerg B, Erb K, Mikkelsen AL, Elbaek HO, Papanikolaou EG, Andersen CY. GnRHa trigger and individualized luteal phase hCG support according to ovarian response to stimulation: two prospective randomized controlled multi-centre studies in IVF patients. Hum Reprod. 2013
21. Zavos A, Daponte A, Garas A, Verykouki C, Papanikolaou E, Anifandis G, Polyzos NP. Double versus single homologous intrauterine insemination for male factor infertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Asian J Androl. 2013 Jul;15(4):533-8
22. Polyzos NP, Zavos A, Valachis A, Dragamestianos C, Blockeel C, Stoop D, Papanikolaou EG, Tournaye H, Devroey P, Messinis IE. Misoprostol prior to hysteroscopy in premenopausal and post-menopausal women. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update. 2012 Jul;18(4):393-404
23. Kyrou D, Al-Azemi M, Papanikolaou EG, Donoso P, Tziomalos K, Devroey P, Fatemi HM. The relationship of premature progesterone rise with serum estradiol levels and number of follicles in GnRH antagonist/recombinant FSH-stimulated cycles. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2012 Jun;162(2):165-8
24. Papanikolaou EG, Pados G, Grimbizis G, Bili E, Kyriazi L, Polyzos NP, Humaidan P, Tournaye H, Tarlatzis B. GnRH-agonist versus GnRH-antagonist IVF cycles: is the reproductive outcome affected by the incidence of progesterone elevation on the day of HCG triggering? A randomized prospective study. Hum Reprod. 2012 Jun;27(6):1822-8
25. Humaidan P, Papanikolaou EG, Kyrou D, Alsbjerg B, Polyzos NP, Devroey P, Fatemi HM. The luteal phase after GnRH-agonist triggering of ovulation: present and future perspectives. Reprod Biomed Online. 2012 Feb;24(2):134-41
26. Humaidan P, Kol S, Engmann L, Benadiva C, Papanikolaou EG, Andersen CY; on behalf of the Copenhagen GnRH Agonist Triggering Workshop Group. Should Cochrane reviews be performed during the development of new concepts? Hum Reprod. 2012 Jan;27(1):6-8.
27. Papanikolaou EG, Humaidan P, Polyzos N, Kalantaridou S, Kol S, Benadiva C, Tournaye H, Tarlatzis B. New algorithm for OHSS prevention. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2011 Nov 3;9:147.
28. Humaidan P, Papanikolaou EG, Kyrou D, Alsbjerg B, Polyzos NP, Devroey P, Fatemi HM. The luteal phase after GnRH-agonist triggering of ovulation: present and future perspectives. Reprod Biomed Online. 2011 Nov 9.
29. Humaidan P, Papanikolaou EG, Tarlatzis BC. Reply: GnRHa to trigger final oocyte maturation: a time to reconsider. Hum Reprod. 2010 Mar;25(3):807-
30. Papanikolaou EG, Humaidan P, Polyzos N, Kalantaridou S, Kol S, Benadiva C, Tournaye H, Tarlatzis B. New algorithm for OHSS prevention. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2011 Nov 3;9:147
31. Polyzos NP, Fatemi HM, Zavos A, Grimbizis G, Kyrou D, Velasco JG, Devroey P, Tarlatzis B, Papanikolaou EG. Aromatase inhibitors in post-menopausal endometriosis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2011 Jun 21;9:90. Review.
32. Humaidan P, Kol S, Papanikolaou EG; Copenhagen GnRH Agonist Triggering Workshop Group. GnRH agonist for triggering of final oocyte maturation: time for a change of practice? Hum Reprod Update. 2011 Jul-Aug;17(4):510-24. Epub 2011 Mar 30. Review
33. Papanikolaou EG, Polyzos NP, Humaidan P, Pados G, Bosch E, Tournaye H, Tarlatzis B. Aromatase inhibitors in stimulated IVF cycles. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2011 Jun 21;9:85. Review
34. Polyzos NP, Valachis A, Patavoukas E, Papanikolaou EG, Messinis IE, Tarlatzis BC, Devroey P. Publication bias in reproductive medicine: from the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology annual meeting to publication. Hum Reprod. 2011 Jun;26(6):1371-6. Epub 2011 Feb 28
35. Kyrou D, Fatemi HM, Zepiridis L, Riva A, Papanikolaou EG, Tarlatzis BC, Devroey P. Does cessation of progesterone supplementation during early pregnancy in patients treated with recFSH/GnRH antagonist affect ongoing pregnancy rates? A randomized controlled trial. Hum Reprod. 2011 May;26(5):1020-4.
36. Papanikolaou EG, Verpoest W, Fatemi H, Tarlatzis B, Devroey P, Tournaye H. A novel method of luteal supplementation with recombinant luteinizing hormone when a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist is used instead of human chorionic gonadotropin for ovulation triggering: a randomized prospective proof of concept study. Fertil Steril. 2011 Mar 1;95(3):1174-7. Epub 2010 Oct 27.
37. Kolibianakis EM, Venetis CA, Kalogeropoulou L, Papanikolaou E, Tarlatzis BC. Fixed versus flexible gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist administration in in vitro fertilization: a randomized controlled trial. Fertil Steril. 2011 Feb;95(2):558-62. Epub 2010 Jul 16.
38. Humaidan P, Papanikolaou EG, Tarlatzis BC. Reply: GnRHa to trigger final oocyte maturation: a time to reconsider. Hum Reprod. 2010 Mar;25(3):807-
39. Polyzos NP, Polyzos IP, Zavos A, Valachis A, Mauri D, Papanikolaou EG, Tzioras S, Weber D, Messinis IE. Obstetric outcomes after treatment of periodontal disease during pregnancy: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ. 2010 Dec 29;341:c7017. doi: 10.1136/bmj.c7017.
40. Papanikolaou EG, Fatemi H, Camus M, Kyrou D, Polyzos NP, Humaidan P, Tarlatzis B, Devroey P, Tournaye H. Higher birth rate after recombinant hCG triggering compared with urinary-derived hCG in single-blastocyst IVF antagonist cycles: a randomized controlled trial. Fertil Steril. 2010 Dec;94(7):2902-4
41. Donoso P, Staessen C, Collins J, Verpoest W, Fatemi HM, Papanikolaou EG, Devroey P. Prognostic factors for delivery in patients undergoing repeated preimplantation genetic aneuploidy screening. Fertil Steril. 2010 Nov;94(6):2362-4. Epub 2010 Jun 1
42. Polyzos NP, Messini CI, Papanikolaou EG, Mauri D, Tzioras S, Badawy A, Messinis IE. Vaginal progesterone gel for luteal phase support in IVF/ICSI cycles: a meta-analysis. Fertil Steril. 2010 Nov;94(6):2083-7. Epub 2010 Feb 19
43. Papanikolaou EG, Humaidan P, Polyzos NP, Tarlatzis B. Identification of the high-risk patient for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Semin Reprod Med. 2010 Nov;28(6):458-62. Epub 2010 Nov 16. Review
44. Humaidan P, Quartarolo J, Papanikolaou EG. Preventing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: guidance for the clinician. Fertil Steril. 2010 Jul;94(2):389-400. Epub 2010 Apr 22. Review.
45. Papanikolaou EG, Bourgain C, Fatemi H, Verpoest W, Polyzos NP, De Brabanter A, Kolibianakis E, Tarlatzis B, Devroey P, Tournaye H. Endometrial advancement after triggering with recombinant or urinary HCG: a randomized controlled pilot study. Reprod Biomed Online. 2010 Jul;21(1):50-5. Epub 2010 Mar 28.
46. Humaidan P, Papanikolaou EG, Tarlatzis BC. GnRHa to trigger final oocyte maturation: a time to reconsider. Hum Reprod. 2009 Oct;24(10):2389-94. Review. PubMed PMID: 19608565.
47. Kyrou D, Kolibianakis EM, Venetis CA, Papanikolaou EG, Bontis J, Tarlatzis BC. How to improve the probability of pregnancy in poor responders undergoing in vitro fertilization: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril. 2009 Mar;91(3):749-66. PubMed PMID: 18639875.
48. Papanikolaou EG, Kolibianakis EM, Pozzobon C, Tank P, Tournaye H, Bourgain C, Van Steirteghem A, Devroey P. Progesterone rise on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin administration impairs pregnancy outcome in day 3 single-embryo transfer, while has no effect on day 5 single blastocyst transfer. Fertil Steril. 2009 Mar;91(3):949-52. PubMed PMID: 17555751.
49. Verpoest W, Fauser BC, Papanikolaou E, Staessen C, Van Landuyt L, Donoso P, Tournaye H, Liebaers I, Devroey P. Chromosomal aneuploidy in embryos conceived with unstimulated cycle IVF. Hum Reprod. 2008 Oct;23(10):2369-71. PubMed PMID: 18621755.
50. Fatemi HM, Popovic-Todorovic B, Donoso P, Papanikolaou E, Smitz J, Devroey P. Luteal phase oestradiol suppression by letrozole: a pilot study in oocyte donors. Reprod Biomed Online. 2008 Sep;17(3):307-11. PubMed PMID: 18764999.
51. Loutradi KE, Kolibianakis EM, Venetis CA, Papanikolaou EG, Pados G, Bontis I,  Tarlatzis BC. Cryopreservation of human embryos by vitrification or slow freezing: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril. 2008 Jul;90(1):186-93. Review. PubMed PMID: 17980870.
52. Verpoest W, De Rademaeker M, Sermon K, De Rycke M, Seneca S, Papanikolaou E, Spits C, Van Landuyt L, Van der Elst J, Haentjens P, Devroey P, Liebaers I. Real and expected delivery rates of patients with myotonic dystrophy undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection and preimplantation genetic diagnosis. Hum Reprod. 2008 Jul;23(7):1654-60. PubMed PMID: 18408243.
53. Kolibianakis EM, Venetis CA, Papanikolaou EG, Diedrich K, Tarlatzis BC, Griesinger G. Estrogen addition to progesterone for luteal phase support in cycles stimulated with GnRH analogues and gonadotrophins for IVF: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod. 2008 Jun;23(6):1346-54. Review. PubMed PMID: 18408017.
54. Lainas TG, Sfontouris IA, Papanikolaou EG, Zorzovilis JZ, Petsas GK, Lainas GT, Kolibianakis EM. Flexible GnRH antagonist versus flare-up GnRH agonist protocol in poor responders treated by IVF: a randomized controlled trial. Hum Reprod. 2008 Jun;23(6):1355-8. PubMed PMID: 18403419.
55. Papanikolaou EG, Kolibianakis EM, Tournaye H, Venetis CA, Fatemi H, Tarlatzis B, Devroey P. Live birth rates after transfer of equal number of blastocysts or cleavage-stage embryos in IVF. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod. 2008 Jan;23(1):91-9. Review. PubMed PMID: 17965420.
56. Kolibianakis EM, Papanikolaou EG, Tournaye H, Camus M, Van Steirteghem AC, Devroey P. Triggering final oocyte maturation using different doses of human chorionic gonadotropin: a randomized pilot study in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome treated with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists and recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone. Fertil Steril. 2007 Nov;88(5):1382-8. PubMed PMID: 17445806.
57. Fatemi HM, Popovic-Todorovic B, Papanikolaou E, Donoso P, Devroey P. An update of luteal phase support in stimulated IVF cycles. Hum Reprod Update. 2007 Nov-Dec;13(6):581-90 Review. PubMed PMID: 17626114.
58. Griesinger G, Kolibianakis EM, Papanikolaou EG, Diedrich K, Van Steirteghem A, Devroey P, Ejdrup Bredkjaer H, Humaidan P. Triggering of final oocyte maturation with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist or human chorionic gonadotropin. Live birth after frozen-thawed embryo replacement cycles. Fertil Steril. 2007 Sep;88(3):616-21. PubMed PMID: 17451691.
59. Kolibianakis EM, Kalogeropoulou L, Griesinger G, Papanikolaou EG, Papadimas J, Bontis J, Tarlatzis BC. Among patients treated with FSH and GnRH analogues for in vitro fertilization, is the addition of recombinant LH associated with the probability of live birth? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update. 2007 Sep-Oct;13(5):445-52. PubMed PMID:17586849.
60. Venetis CA, Kolibianakis EM, Papanikolaou E, Bontis J, Devroey P, Tarlatzis BC. Is progesterone elevation on the day of human chorionic gonadotrophin administration associated with the probability of pregnancy in in vitro fertilization? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update. 2007 Jul-Aug;13(4):343-55.  PubMed PMID: 17405832.
61. Tarlatzis BC, Papanikolaou E. Multifollicular ovarian stimulation for IVF: more may not be better. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2007 Jun;23(6):307-8. PubMed PMID: 17616852.
62. Fatemi HM, Bourgain C, Donoso P, Blockeel C, Papanikolaou EG, Popovic-Todorovic B, Devroey P. Effect of oral administration of dydrogestrone versus vaginal administration of natural micronized progesterone on the secretory transformation of endometrium and luteal endocrine profile in patients with premature ovarian failure: a proof of concept. Hum Reprod. 2007 May;22(5):1260-3. PubMed PMID: 17227809.
63. Donoso P, Verpoest W, Papanikolaou EG, Liebaers I, Fatemi HM, Sermon K, Staessen C, Van der Elst J, Devroey P. Single embryo transfer in preimplantation  genetic diagnosis cycles for women Hum Reprod. 2007 Apr;22(4):1021-5.  PubMed PMID: 17204531.
64. Fatemi HM, Camus M, Kolibianakis EM, Tournaye H, Papanikolaou EG, Donoso P, Devroey P. The luteal phase of recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone-gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist in vitro fertilization cycles during supplementation with progesterone or progesterone and estradiol. Fertil Steril. 2007 Mar;87(3):504-8. PubMed PMID: 17140572.
65. Della Ragione T, Verheyen G, Papanikolaou EG, Van Landuyt L, Devroey P, Van Steirteghem A. Developmental stage on day-5 and fragmentation rate on day-3 can influence the implantation potential of top-quality blastocysts in IVF cycles with single embryo transfer. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2007 Jan 26;5:2. PubMed PMID: 17257401; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC1796880.
66. Fatemi HM, Kolibianakis EM, Camus M, Tournaye H, Donoso P, Papanikolaou E, Devroey P. Addition of estradiol to progesterone for luteal supplementation in patients stimulated with GnRH antagonist/rFSH for IVF: a randomized controlled trial. Hum Reprod. 2006 Oct;21(10):2628-32. PubMed PMID:16857887.
67. Donoso P, Platteau P, Papanikolaou EG, Staessen C, Van Steirteghem A, Devroey P. Does PGD for aneuploidy screening change the selection of embryos derived from testicular sperm extraction in obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermic men? Hum Reprod. 2006 Sep;21(9):2390-5. PubMed PMID: 16757554.
68. Verpoest WM, Kolibianakis E, Papanikolaou E, Smitz J, Van Steirteghem A, Devroey P. Aromatase inhibitors in ovarian stimulation for IVF/ICSI: a pilot study. Reprod Biomed Online. 2006 Aug;13(2):166-72. PubMed PMID: 16895628.
69. Kolibianakis EM, Papanikolaou EG, Camus M, Tournaye H, Van Steirteghem AC, Devroey P. Menstruation-free interval and ongoing pregnancy in IVF using GnRH antagonists. Hum Reprod. 2006 Apr;21(4):1012-7. PubMed PMID:16339166.
70. Papanikolaou EG, Camus M, Kolibianakis EM, Van Landuyt L, Van Steirteghem A, Devroey P. In vitro fertilization with single blastocyst-stage versus single cleavage-stage embryos. N Engl J Med. 2006 Mar 16;354(11):1139-46. PubMed PMID: 16540614.
71. Kolibianakis EM, Papanikolaou EG, Camus M, Tournaye H, Van Steirteghem AC, Devroey P. Effect of oral contraceptive pill pre-treatment on ongoing pregnancy rates in patients stimulated with GnRH antagonists and recombinant FSH for IVF. A randomized controlled trial. Hum Reprod. 2006 Feb;21(2):352-7. PubMed PMID: 16269449.
72. Papanikolaou EG, Pozzobon C, Kolibianakis EM, Camus M, Tournaye H, Fatemi HM, Van Steirteghem A, Devroey P. Incidence and prediction of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in women undergoing gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist in vitro fertilization cycles. Fertil Steril. 2006 Jan;85(1):112-20. PubMed PMID: 16412740.
73. Kolibianakis EM, Collins J, Tarlatzis B, Papanikolaou E, Devroey P. Are endogenous LH levels during ovarian stimulation for IVF using GnRH analogues associated with the probability of ongoing pregnancy? A systematic review. Hum Reprod Update. 2006 Jan-Feb;12(1):3-12. Review. PubMed PMID:16123054.
74. Papanikolaou EG, Camus M, Fatemi HM, Tournaye H, Verheyen G, Van Steirteghem A, Devroey P. Early pregnancy loss is significantly higher after day 3 single embryo transfer than after day 5 single blastocyst transfer in GnRH antagonist stimulated IVF cycles. Reprod Biomed Online. 2006 Jan;12(1):60-5. PubMed PMID:16454935.
75. Papanikolaou EG, D’haeseleer E, Verheyen G, Van de Velde H, Camus M, Van Steirteghem A, Devroey P, Tournaye H. Live birth rate is significantly higher after blastocyst transfer than after cleavage-stage embryo transfer when at least four embryos are available on day 3 of embryo culture. A randomized prospective study. Hum Reprod. 2005 Nov;20(11):3198-203. PubMed PMID: 16055454.
76. Papanikolaou EG, Vernaeve V, Kolibianakis E, Assche EV, Bonduelle M, Liebaers I, Van Steirteghem A, Devroey P. Is chromosome analysis mandatory in the initial investigation of normovulatory women seeking infertility treatment? Hum Reprod. 2005 Oct;20(10):2899-903. PubMed PMID: 15958396.
77. Fatemi HM, Al-Turki HA, Papanikolaou EG, Kosmas L, De Sutter P, Devroey P. Successful treatment of an aggressive recurrent post-menopausal endometriosis with an aromatase inhibitor. Reprod Biomed Online. 2005 Oct;11(4):455-7. PubMed PMID: 16274608.
78. Kolibianakis EM, Bourgain C, Papanikolaou EG, Camus M, Tournaye H, Van Steirteghem AC, Devroey P. Prolongation of follicular phase by delaying hCG administration results in a higher incidence of endometrial advancement on the day of oocyte retrieval in GnRH antagonist cycles. Hum Reprod. 2005 Sep;20(9):2453-6. PubMed PMID: 15890735.
79. Kolibianakis EM, Papanikolaou EG, Fatemi HM, Devroey P. Estrogen and folliculogenesis: is one necessary for the other? Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol. 2005 Jun;17(3):249-53. Review. PubMed PMID: 15870558.
80. Papanikolaou EG, Bourgain C, Kolibianakis E, Tournaye H, Devroey P. Steroid receptor expression in late follicular phase endometrium in GnRH antagonist IVF cycles is already altered, indicating initiation of early luteal phase transformation in the absence of secretory changes. Hum Reprod. 2005Jun;20(6):1541-7. PubMed PMID: 15705618.
81. Papanikolaou EG, Kolibianakis E, Devroey P. Emerging drugs in assisted reproduction. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs. 2005 May;10(2):425-40. Review. PubMed PMID: 15934877.
82. Papanikolaou EG, Platteau P, Albano C, Nogueira D, Cortvrindt R, Devroey P, Smitz J. Immature oocyte in-vitro maturation: clinical aspects. Reprod Biomed Online. 2005 May;10(5):587-92. Review. PubMed PMID: 15949215.
83. Papanikolaou EG, Tournaye H, Verpoest W, Camus M, Vernaeve V, Van Steirteghem A, Devroey P. Early and late ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: early pregnancy outcome and profile. Hum Reprod. 2005 Mar;20(3):636-41. PubMed PMID: 15576388.
84. Papanikolaou EG, Platteau P, Albano C, Kolibianakis E, Devroey P. Achievement of pregnancy three times in the same patient during luteal GnRH agonist administration. Reprod Biomed Online. 2005 Mar;10(3):347-9. PubMed PMID:15820040.
85. Stefos T, Sotiriadis A, Tsanadis G, Hasiotis G, Papanicolaou E, Seferiadis K. Serum leptin and erythropoietin during menstruation. Clin Exp Obstet Gynecol. 2005 ;32(1):41-4. PMID: 15864936
86. Papanikolaou EG, Plachouras N, Drougia A, Andronikou S, Vlachou C, Stefos T,  Paraskevaidis E, Zikopoulos K. Comparison of misoprostol and dinoprostone for elective induction of labour in nulliparous women at full term: a randomized prospective study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2004 Sep 27;2:70. PubMed PMID:15450119
87. Kalantaridou SN, Naka KK, Papanikolaou E, Kazakos N, Kravariti M, Calis KA, Paraskevaidis EA, Sideris DA, Tsatsoulis A, Chrousos GP, Michalis LK. Impaired endothelial function in young women with premature ovarian failure: normalization with hormone therapy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2004 Aug;89(8):3907-13. PubMed PMID: 15292326.
88. Makrydimas G, Papanikolaou E, Paraskevaidis E, Paschopoulos M, Lolis D. Upper limb abnormalities as an isolated ultrasonographic finding in early detection of trisomy 18. A case report. Fetal Diagn Ther. 2003 Nov-Dec; 18(6):401-3. PubMed PMID: 14564108.
89. Zikopoulos KA, Papanikolaou EG, Kalantaridou SN, Tsanadis GD, Plachouras NI, Dalkalitsis NA, Paraskevaidis EA. Early pregnancy termination with vaginal misoprostol before and after 42 days gestation. Hum Reprod. 2002 Dec;17(12):3079-83. PubMed PMID: 12456606.
90. Papanikolaou EG, Tsanadis G, Dalkalitsis N, Lolis D. Recurrent bacterial vaginosis in a virgin adolescent: a new method of treatment. Infection. 2002 Dec;30(6):403-4. PubMed PMID: 12478334.

Robert Najdecki  MD, PhD is  a Reproductive Gynaecology Specialist. His experience in diagnosis and treatment of fertility disorders, such as endoscopic surgery is long and extensive and includes more than 6000 stimulated cycles.

He graduated and received his medical degree from Medical School at the University of Warsaw in 1985 and his residency training in obstetrics and gynecology at Solec University Hospital in Warsaw. He completed the reproductive endocrinology and infertility fellowship at The Genetic Department of Children’s Memorial Health Institute in Warsaw – Poland as a member of the IVF team in 1992. One of the most important achievements of his team/ led by Prof. Wisniewski / was the second baby birth through IVF technique in Poland.In 1989, he obtained his PhD in the University of Warsaw, with his dissertation titled “Evaluation of maturity of oocytes after stimulation through IVF method.” His dissertation includes studies of multiple medication protocols in order to induce ovulation, regarding the morphological maturity in human oocytes after collection. As a reproductive gynaecologist, he finds this experience in embryology to be a very crucial in the process of improving patients care. During these pioneering years, Dr. Najdecki was deeply involved in research for a “new method” for oocyte pick up. After many years of laparoscopic OPU, he successfully introduced the first vaginal, ultrasound guided oocyte pick up, which resulted in second IVF baby being born in the nation.This first success led the way to a new era in IVF techniques that goes on until today. He has also been active in fertility research, publishing on topics ranging from fibroids, endometriosis to ovulatory dysfunction and ovarian ageing.

After moving to Greece Dr Najdecki was appointed Scientific Director of “Iatriki Erevna” IVF Unit / Medical Research/Clinic in Thessaloniki (1988 – 2005). In  2005  Dr Najdecki joined the clinical team at “Embryolab” IVF Unit in Thessaloniki and spent 8 years supporting the team in egg collections, embryo transfers and endoscopic surgeries.

From 2013, Dr Najdecki is a founding partner, scientific director of Assisting Nature Assisted Reproduction Unit in Thessaloniki. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr Najdecki supervises the extensive research activities and academic ventures of the practice and he is currently holding the position of QMS director of the Unit.

Many years of intensive clinical practice and academic research have shown him the limitations of conventional IVF. He is not only a strong advocate of minimal stimulation IVF protocols (Natural, Minimal, UltraMini-IVF,) for indicated patients but is an accomplished surgeon for minimally invasive procedures as well. Dr.Najdecki still actively continues his clinical research and educational activity in the field of advanced office hysteroscopy for reproductive patients. At the same time, he is constantly pursuing the development of new medical devices, novel medications, and advanced diagnostic approaches.

Robert Najdecki is an active member of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM).

During his career, he has published over 25 scientific papers. He has led several large research studies and contributed to publications in top peer-reviewed fertility journals, including Fertility and Sterility and Human Reproduction.

In addition, he has appeared as guest speaker at numerous scientific meetings and conferences.

Current Research Interests

Dr Najdecki research interests include diminished ovarian reserve and AMH relationship, GnRh Triggering, Antagonist stimulation protocols, Office advanced Hysteroscopy for infertile patients, QMS in IVF Units, single embryo transfer, fertility preservation, preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD).

Scientific publications, presentations, papers:

1. Papanikolaou E, Timotheou E, Tatsi P, Chartomatsidou T, Asouchidou I, Grynberg M, Vlachou C, Katsoula E, Najdecki R. Long-Antagonist protocol versus Classical-day-6 Antagonist. Single luteal use of long-acting GnRH-antagonist Degarelix can efficiently downregulate LH during ovarian stimulation for IVF achieving comparable pregnancy outcome. ESHRE Annual Meeting, Vienna 2019 (oral presentation)
2. Najdecki R, Choulaira F, Timotheou E, Tatsi P, Chartomatsidou T, Asouchidou E, Pakaki F, Bouchlariotou S, Humaidan P, Papanikolaou E. Single follicular degarelix, a new long acting GnRH-antagonist for LH surge suppression during ovarian stimulation in oocyte donors. A randomised controlled trial. ESHRE Annual Meeting, Vienna 2019 (oral presentation)
3. Timotheou E, Chartomatsidou T, Tatsi P, Katsoula E, Vlachou C, Stamataki S, Asouchidou I, Zafeiratis O, Najdecki R, Papanikolaou E. Cumulative Live Birth Rates (CLBR) in patients following Freeze-all policy are higher compared to patients who undergo fresh embryotransfer (ET) followed by frozen-thawed embryotransfers. ESHRE Annual Meeting, Vienna 2019 (poster presentation)
4. Papanikolaou E, Chartomatsidou T, Timotheou E, Tatsi P, Katsoula E, Vlachou C, Asouchidou I, Zafeiratis O, Najdecki R. In Freeze-All Strategy, Cumulative Live Birth Rate (CLBR) Is Increasing According to the Number of Blastocysts Formed in Women <40 Undergoing Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). Front Endocrinol. 2019; 10 (427) https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fendo.2019.00427/full
5. Papanikolaou EG, Timotheou E, Tatsi P, Janssens H, Grynberg M, Athanasiadis A, Zafeirati C, Najdecki R, Petousis S. COMFFETI, Combined Fresh and Frozen Embryo Transfers per Indvidual: A New Index of Quality Control for the Performance of Embryologic Labs in The Emerging Era of Segmentation of Cycle and Freeze- All Strategy. Int J Fertil Steril. 2019; 12(4): 339-342 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30291697
6. Papanikolaou EG, Yarali H, Timotheou E, Grynberg M, Zafeiratis O, Tournaye H and Najdecki R. A Proof-of-Concept Clinical Trial of A Single Luteal Use of Long-Acting Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Antagonist Degarelix in Controlled Ovarian Stimulation for In Vitro Fertilization: Long Antagonist Protocol. Front. Endocrine. 2018. 9:25. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00025     https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5839166/
7. Papanikolaou EG, Yarali H, Timotheou E, Tatsi, P, Chartomatsidou T, Grynberg M, Zafeiratis O, Vlachou C, Tournaye H  and Najdecki R. Long-Antagonist protocol; single luteal use of long-acting GnRH-antagonist Degarelix can efficiently downregulate LH during ovarian stimulation for IVF. A proof of concept. ESHRE Annual Meeting, Barcelona 2018 (Award nominee)
8. Chartomatsidou T, Timotheou E, Tatsi P, Katsoula E, Zafeiratis O, Najdecki R, Papanikolaou E. In Freeze-all strategy Cumulative Live Birth Rate (CLBR) is increasing according to the number of blastocysts formed in women <40 undergoing Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). ESHRE Annual Meeting, Barcelona 2018
9. Papanikolaou E, Timotheou E, Tatsi P, Chartomatsidou T, Najdecki R. Long-Antagonist protocol; luteal administration of a single dose of Degarelix (long-acting GnRH-antagonist) for controlled ovarian stimulation. A new protocol for IVF. ASRM Scientific Congress & Expo, Denver, Colorado, 2018
10. Papanikolaou E. and Najdecki R. Role of Antagonists in human IVF: The tool for a safer and more patient friendly IVF. Handbook of In Vitro Fertilisation. 4th Edition. 2017. Edited by DK Gardner and C Simon. CRC Press
11. D.Kyrou, R.Najdecki, E.Pagou, E.Katsoula, E.G.Papanikolaou. Corifollitropin Alpha combined with GnRh agonist triggering appears to be safe and efficient option in oocyte donation cycles a prospective longitudinal study.Fertility&Sterility 2015:104;325-326
12. Chatziparasidou A., Elder K., Christoforidis N., Tsakos E., Najdecki R. (2007). “Seminal Plasma infections”. Poster presented at 23rd Annual Meeting, ESHRE. Lyon, France.
13. Chatziparasidou A., Christoforidis N., Tsakos E., Najdecki R. (2007). “Triplonuclear embryos in ICSI cycles”. Poster presented at 19th World Congress on Fertility and Sterility IFFS. Durban, South Africa.
14. R.Najdecki ,N.Plachuras, D.Lolis. Prenatal,first-trimester ultrasound detection of foetal chromosomal abnormalities. Polish Ultrasonography 6/3:1996;75-80
15. Najdecki R., Georgiou I., Lolis D. The thalassemia syndromes and pregnancy – molecular basis, clinical aspects, prenatal diagnosis. Ginekologia Polska (Impact Factor: 0.6). 09/1996; 69(8):664-8.
16. R.Najdecki, Recent trends K.Karypidis, A. PResent trends in the therapy of vaginal candidiasis. Ginekologia Polska 1994:64:234-236
17. L.Wiśniewski, A. Grześ, R.Najdecki. Therapeutic problems in the case of Premature Ovarian Failure. Ginekologia Polska 1989;60:9-11
18. A.Grześ, R. Najdecki. Human placental lactogen in early pregnancy. Human Reproduction 1992:8;183-184
19. R.Najdecki, A. Grześ.FSH, oestradiol and testosterone level in early pregnancy. Human Reproduction 1992:8;181-182
20. A.Grześ, R.Najdecki. Ultrasound imaging and hormones in women over age 40. Human Reproduction 1992:8;56-57
21. L. Wiśniewski, J.Jezuita, R.Najdecki, A.Kaplinski, A.Grześ Use of vaginal ultrasonography for Graafian follicle puncture in vitro fertilisation programme. Symposium on selected problems of pathology of reproduction and early development: Warsaw Poland 1988:32-37
22. A.Kaplinski, L.Wiśniewski, J.Jezuita, R.Najdecki, A. Grześ, W. Strzyrzewski. Endocrinologic and ultrasonic evaluation of patients with stimulated ovulation for in vitro fertilisation. Symposium on selected problems of pathology of reproduction and early development: Warsaw Poland 1988:17-20
23. A.Grześ, L.Wiśniewski, J.Jezuita, R.Najdecki, A.Kaplinski. Stimulation model evaluation in vitro fertilisation programme symposium on selected problems of pathology of reproduction and early development: Warsaw Poland 1988:14-16
24. A.Grześ, R. Najdecki, L.Wiśniewski.The follicle function using USG in the out-patient clinic. Satellite Workshop on IVF, embryo transfer and GIFT: Rhodes Island/ Greece 1988;45-47
25. A.Grześ, R.Najdecki, A. Strojecka. The application of natamycin in suspension in the treatments of blastomycosis in girls.European Congress of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology: Greece 1988:13-165
26. A.Grześ, R.Najdecki. The follicle punction using ultrasound scanning to the level of an out-patient clinic. Proceedings of the Symposium; In Vitro Fertilisation und Gametentransfer, Berlin 1988: 200-201
27. A.Grześ, R.Najdecki. The oocyte recovery by laparoscopy. Proceedings of the Symposium; In Vitro Fertilisation und Gametentransfer, Berlin 1988: 111-112
28. A.Grześ, R.Najdecki. Hyperstimulation of the ovaries. Proceedings of the Symposium; In Vitro Fertilisation und Gametentransfer, Berlin 1988: 77-78
29. L.Wisniewski, J.Jezuita, E.Piontek, A. Grześ, R.Najdecki. The IVF Programme in the Memorial Child Health Hospital in WarsawHuman Reproduction 1988:833
30. L.Wisniewski, R.Najdecki. The oocyte after stimulation in the IVF programme. Human Reproduction 1987:720
31. R.Najdecki, K.Maternicka, U.Bolesta. An assessment of the oocyte in the IVF programme. In Vitro Fertilisation Symposium, Warsaw, Poland 1987, Abstract Book 91-92
32. A.Grześ, R.Najdecki, Z.Bogoniowska, S.Mirowski. Hormonal parameters in the menstrual cycle assessment. Ginekologia Polska  10/1987;58:49-51
33. A.Grześ, R.Najdecki, Z.Bogoniowska, S.Mirowski. Studies on the interrelations between hormones of the I and II phase of the 28-day menstrual cycle. Ginekologia Polska 09/1987;57:1

Foteini Chouliara is an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist with a special interest in Reproductive Gynaecology.

She was awarded the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree (M.B.,Ch.B) by the University of Glasgow School of Medicine in 2005. After completing Foundation Year 1 post graduate training she started her residency in surgery following by the residency in Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Hippokration Hospital of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki/ Greece.

From 2017 she is working as qualified Obstetric & Gynaecology Consultant. She received her Master in Science (MSc) Degree in “Human reproduction” from Democritus University of Thrace in 2019 and is a Research Fellow of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki carrying out research work on the role of particular biomarkers in the pre-surgical assessment of ovarian tumors as part of her Doctorate degree. Foteini is deeply committed in the supervision of our International Patient Department.

Foteini joined Assisting Nature in 2018.

Current scientific interests:

Biomarkers of ovarian cyst and their value in Human Reproduction, PCO, Prenatal first trimester diagnosis in Reproductive Patient.

Scientific publications, presentations, papers

1. Najdecki R, Choulaira F, Timotheou E, Tatsi P, Chartomatsidou T, Asouchidou E, Pakaki F, Bouchlariotou S, Humaidan P, Papanikolaou E. Single follicular degarelix, a new long acting GnRH-antagonist for LH surge suppression during ovarian stimulation in oocyte donors. A randomised controlled trial. ESHRE Annual Meeting, Vienna 2019 (oral presentation)
2. Prevalence of antenatal depression and associated factors among pregnant women hospitalized in a high-risk pregnancy unit in Greece, Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, 2016 Jul.
3. Antenatal depression among women hospitalized due to threatened preterm labour in a high-risk pregnancy unit in Greece, Journal of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, 2017 Mar 21.

Dr. Apostolos H. Ziogas was born in 1983 in Larisa. His family’s origin is from Smixi, Grevena. He lived and grew up in Larisa. In 2001, upon graduating from the 2nd General High School of Larisa, he entered the Medical School of Athens through the Panhellenic Examinations. In 2007, he completed his studies at the Medical School of Athens, precisely within the six-year period of study, with a degree of “Very Good,” and immediately began working on his doctoral dissertation.

In 2012, he obtained a Master’s Degree from the University of Thessaly’s Postgraduate Program “Reproductive Biology” with a grade of “Excellent.” In 2014, he completed his doctoral dissertation at the Medical School of the University of Athens with a grade of “Excellent” and was declared a Doctor of the University of Athens. In 2016, he received training and a Diploma in Minimal Access Surgery from the World Laparoscopy Hospital in Gurugram, New Delhi, India. In 2017, he studied at Newcastle University, United Kingdom, in the field of medical education methods and obtained a Certificate in Medical Education. Concurrently, he taught Obstetrics and Gynecology to third and fifth-year medical students at Newcastle University.

He specialized as an Obstetrician-Gynecologist at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of the General Hospital of Larisa and at the A Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Alexandra Hospital. It was there that he obtained his specialization title in 2016.

Since then, he has worked as a specialized Obstetrician-Gynecologist both in Greece and in the United Kingdom. In Greece, he served as an obstetrician-gynecologist at the A Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Alexandra Hospital, at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of the General Hospital of Larissa, and at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of the General Hospital of Trikala, gaining significant clinical experience. In the United Kingdom, he received further training at the Royal Victoria Infirmary and Newcastle Fertility Center, both in modern surgical methods (laparoscopic, robotic, and hysteroscopic surgery) and in reproductive medicine techniques (in vitro fertilization).

He holds certification in colposcopy from the Hellenic Society of Cervical Pathology and Colposcopy (HSCCP). During his tenure as an attending physician at the General Hospital of Trikala, with the approval of the hospital’s board of directors, he initiated and operated a Cervical Pathology and Colposcopy clinic, where he also served as the scientific supervisor.

Following his participation in the examinations of the Hellenic Obstetrics and Gynecology Society (EMGE), in June 2019, he achieved excellence and was awarded a scholarship. He was accepted for the utilization of this scholarship as a Clinical Fellow in Reproductive Medicine at the Newcastle Fertility Center, where he received further training in modern assisted reproduction methods.

He has a wide range of foreign language publications in internationally peer-reviewed scientific journals, as well as presentations, announcements, and awards at numerous conferences in Greece and abroad. He serves as a reviewer for international peer-reviewed scientific journals and has participated in the writing of medical foreign language books.

Since 2021, he has been an academic scholar at the University of Thessaly and teaches medical students in their 5th and 6th years at the Medical School of Larissa.

Afroditi Katouna received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece in 2002. She completed a Masters in Medical Science in Assisted Reproduction Technologies from the University of Nottingham, UK after earning a scholarship from Onassis Foundation.

In her thesis she studied the effects of assisted hatching on developmental potential and gene expression of mouse embryos. Upon her return to Greece she worked at the Transgenic Technology Lab of the Hellenic Pasteur Institute. Her job was to develop and implement methods of cryopreservation of mouse embryos in order to store and archive mutant strains. In 2007 Afroditi was recruited as embryologist at Genesis Athens Center, Greece where she was trained in all assisting reproduction techniques.

She was part of the embryologist team for 14 years and she gained experience in more than 40.000 cycles of assisted reproduction. Afroditi is ESHRE certified Senior Clinical Embryologist since 2013. She has attended many workshops and conferences in the field of Assisted Reproduction and is an active member of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology.

Scientific publications, presentations, papers

1. Timotheou E, Chartomatsidou T, Kostoglou K, Katouna A, Christopikou D, Najdecki R, Papanikolaou E. Implantation failure with egg donation after multiple failed IVF cycles with own oocytes; Is it necessary to perform PGT-A?, 19th IAHR World Congress 15-18 March 2023, Venice, Italy.

Natassa Koutsouni received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Applications and Technologies from University of Ioannina, Greece in 2008. Her thesis was performed at Human Reproduction and Medical Genetics Laboratory in Medical school of University of Ioannina in collaboration with the IVF Unit of University Hospital of Ioannina. The work topic was the Site-directed mutagenesis of the Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) receptor’s gene.

She completed a Masters in Medical Science in Assisted Reproduction Technologies from the University of Nottingham, UK after earning a scholarship from Onassis Foundation. Her dissertation was a statistical analysis of the IVF results concerning only cycles with frozen-thawed embryos of NURTURE IVF Unit in Queen’s Medical Center Hospital of Nottingham, UK.

She worked in several IVF clinics in Athens for the last 11 years where she was trained in all IVF techniques and gained much experience. She is an active member of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology and Panhellenic Union of Clinical Embryologists (P.E.K.E.).

Antigone Kakatosi is a midwife.

She obtained her degree in December 2016 from the Alexander Technological Educational Institute of Thessaloniki.

In January 2021, she joined the team of Assisting Nature Larissa and took on the role of midwife coordinator.

Antigone has been well-trained and effectively fulfills the critical demands of the clinic’s surgical department.

Her experience in patient care in the private healthcare sector, combined with her kindness and warm smile, make her capable of guiding new patients in modern forms of therapy. She speaks English.

Georgia is a midwife.

She graduated and had bachelor degree as a midwife in January 2022 . She joined the Assisting Nature team in April of the same year as junior fertility midwife.

She is always willing to help, has a team spirit and cooperation skills that help her successfully cope with the various demands that arise.

She speaks English.

Iliana Kravari graduated from the department of Mathematics of the University of the Aegean.

She worked for almost six years in a gynecology – obstetric medical office and joined the Assisting Nature IVF Unit by Iaso Thessalias team in 2020.

With many years in the field of customer service she is a highly experienced person to guide new patients in processes and ensure the best possible service.

She speaks English and she is in charge of secretarial support and patient management.

Konstantina Alexandrou is a graduate of the Department of Environment of the University of the Aegean.

With 5 years of experience in sales and customer service she joined the team of Assisting Nature IVF Unit by Iaso Thessaly in the position of secretarial support.

She is characterized by a pleasant personality and her willingness to provide excellent service to the unit’s customers. She speaks English.

Vasiliki is the communication and public relations specialist. She studied at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in the department of Italian language and literature, winning admission and achievement scholarships. But she was quickly won over by the health sector, in which she has been active for the last 16 years. She has worked for large pharmaceutical companies while for the last 10 years she has been working as a communication manager in the field of IVF. At the same time, she is studying psychology, a subject that fascinates her.

She has extensive experience in customer management and excellent communication skills. She loves her job as she enjoys setting goals and interacting with other people.

Loriti Theodora-Nikoleta is a Psychologist, Psychotherapist. She graduated from the School of Psychology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (2013) and pursued the Postgraduate Study Program with the subject ‘Applications of Psychology in Health’ at the School of Medicine. She specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and is a member of the Greek Society for Behavioral Research – Macedonia Annex (2013-2016). She is a certified associate of the ISON PSYCHOMETRICA company and specializes in conducting internationally recognized psychometric personality tests.

She has completed her practical training as a Clinical Psychologist at the Psychiatric Clinic of the Military Hospital of Thessaloniki 424 (2013). Since 2016, she has been operating her private practice based in Larissa, with a branch in Almyros, Magnesia. She served as the Head Psychologist at the Psychiatric Clinic Agios Nikitas in Larissa from 2018 to 2021. She writes articles and is a volunteer member, offering her services as a Psychologist to organizations in Greece, such as “The Smile of the Child” and “Make a Wish Greece.” She has collaborated with the Educational Group Aegean as a Psychology Instructor for students and participates in seminars, conferences, and congresses.