The decision taken to reduce NHS-funded IVF provision across Greater Manchester to just one cycle is cruel and deeply damaging to people trying to start a family. Evidence shows that success rates increase over multiple cycles, and this decision removes a realistic chance of pregnancy for thousands of people.
Public consultation responses showed clear opposition to reducing IVF provision, yet that feedback has been ignored. NICE guidelines recommend up to three cycles of IVF for eligible patients. Choosing to limit treatment to one cycle disregards both clinical evidence and national best practice.
Gwenda Burns, Chief Executive of The Fertility Alliance, said “It is especially concerning that this decision comes after an extensive consultation process involving multiple engagement events, working groups and significant public cost. Patients, clinicians and advocacy groups gave their time, shared personal experiences and participated in good faith, only for the final decision to contradict the clear direction of the consultation. This raises serious questions about the value of the process and how public voices and funds are being used.
Infertility is recognised as a disease by the World Health Organisation. Restricting treatment so severely ignores medical reality and places immense emotional pressure on people already facing stress, anxiety and grief. Offering only one NHS-funded attempt is not just clinically unsound, it is emotionally punishing.
The impact will not be equal. Those who can afford private treatment may continue, while others will be forced to abandon their hopes of having a child. This creates a two-tier system based on income and deepens health inequalities across Greater Manchester. We urge decision-makers to reverse this cruel decision and provide fertility care that reflects evidence, fairness and compassion.”
We would encourage anyone impacted to write to their MP to challenge the decision – if you need help finding the email address for your MP or if you want help with a letter, do get in touch. If .you live in Manchester, are affected by the decision or have had successful IVF treatment, and would be willing to talk about this to the media, please do email us at thefertilityalliance@outlook.com