Fertility Treatment

Eligibility for treatment

Eligibility for fertility treatment is dependent upon what is causing the fertility problem, along with what funding is available in your area. NHS funding varies across the UK and waiting lists can be very long.

Your GP will be able to advise about your eligibility for treatment.

If your GP refers you to a specialist for further tests, the NHS will pay for this. All patients have the right to be referred to an NHS clinic for the initial investigation.

Going private

If you have an infertility problem, you may wish to consider private treatment. This can be expensive and there is no guarantee of success.

It is important to choose a private clinic carefully.

You should find out:

  • which clinics are available
  • which treatments are offered
  • the success rates of treatments
  • the length of the waiting list
  • the costs

Ask for a personalised, fully costed treatment plan that explains exactly what is included, such as fees, scans and any necessary medication.

If you decide to go private, you can ask your GP for advice, and make sure you choose a clinic licensed by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). The HFEA is a government organisation that regulates and inspects all UK clinics that provide fertility treatment, including the storage of eggs, sperm or embryos.

Treatment options

There are three main types of fertility treatment:

  • medicines to assist fertility
  • surgical procedures
  • assisted conception

Types of assisted conception include