Yet another article on the UK’s declining fertility rates, this time comparing us to the rest of the G7, yet it misses a crucial point…………
…………..while socioeconomic disparities certainly influence the decision to have children, they also play a significant role in determining access to fertility treatments for those that want children but can’t have them, something that is far too often overlooked when it comes to NHS funding decisions.
Here are some alarming facts:
👉 According to WHO, 1 in 6 people globally experience infertility.
👉 For the LGBTQ+Q+ community (which makes up at least 10% of the UK population), this rate is even higher, as their path to parenthood typically involves donor eggs, sperm, or surrogacy.
👉 Data from the HFEA reveals that NHS funding for IVF has significantly dropped over the past decade, from 40% in 2012 to 27% in 2022, with stark regional differences based on postcode and funding criteria.
👉Heterosexual couples receive at least 3x more NHS fertility funding compared to single individuals and same-sex couples.
👉 NHS funding is lowest for Black individuals, and they’ve seen the largest decrease in access over time, but lower across many ethnic minority groups
Fertility should not discriminate, but in the UK, it clearly does. This inequality is almost certainly playing a significant role in why the UK has the lowest fertility rate among G7 nations.
It’s time for the government to step up by making NHS fertility funding equitable, inclusive, and accessible for everyone.
There’s a model in place in the UK that shows it’s possible. Since 2021, Sussex ICB has offered a more inclusive system 🌈 👏 Women under 40 in stable heterosexual relationships can access three fully funded IVF cycles, and those under 43, one cycle. This model also supports single women, same-sex couples, and provides access to donor sperm, egg donation, and fertility preservation for those undergoing chemotherapy or transitioning. Blended families are also considered. It’s not perfect but it is a big step in the right direction and could do with a national roll out!
At the Agora Clinic, we’re proud to be part of this journey, working closely with Sussex NHS Integrated Care Board and ensuring that over 60% of our treatments are fully funded by the NHS.
It’s time to make fertility care in the UK fair and inclusive for all by removing the current financial barriers that exist. Glad to be working with so many allies that share the same vision including Katie Rollings and Laura-Rose Thorogood.
