There has been a sharp drop in the number of IVF treatment cycles funded by the NHS according to new figures released by the fertility regulator, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA).
The figures show the number of NHS-funded IVF cycles dropped to 27% in 2022 from 40% in 2012.
At The Fertility Alliance, we believe strongly that the guidance set by NICE should be followed across the UK, which recommends up to three cycles of NHS-funded IVF where the female partner is 39 and under, and one cycle for those who are eligible between the ages of 40 and 42.
We know people often struggle to afford private treatment, yet our survey earlier this year found that many felt forced into the private sector by delays for NHS services. This has led to people having to borrow money to cover the costs of going privately.
The HFEA figures also show fertility patients are starting also treatment older, with the average age of those starting IVF being over 35 years old for the first time.
There was some good news in the figures, as they show average IVF pregnancy rates using fresh embryo transfers increased nationally to 31% per fresh embryo transferred in 2022, from 21% in 2012. The highest pregnancy rates, at 42%, were among patients aged 18-34, but pregnancy rates improved across all age groups.
Julia Chain, Chair of the HFEA, said
“IVF success rates continue to improve, but as the chance of a birth rapidly decreases with age, early access to fertility treatment is crucial for those who need it. Our data shows the average age of patients starting treatment for the first time is now nearly six years older than the average age at which women in England and Wales gave birth to their first child.
“There are several possible factors for this including the knock-on effect of delays across the NHS due to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in gynaecology, which has likely led to delays in some patients accessing fertility services.
“The higher average age may also relate to difficulty in funding fertility treatment, owing to recent increases in the cost of living, a fall in the proportion of NHS-funded IVF cycles and increased waiting times for further investigations before accessing NHS-funded treatment.
“Fertility treatment is not a guarantee of having a baby. It is important to seek advice about fertility issues so that, if treatment is needed, patients can access it as soon as possible to reduce delays. Early contact with a GP and referral to a fertility clinic, if needed, will help ensure the chances of success are as high as possible.”
You can see all the information released in the HFEA’s report Fertility Treatment 2022: Preliminary Trends and Figures.
And you can find out details of what treatment you should be entitled to on our Information page.