Increase NHS funded IVF rounds in the UK
The Issue
My wife and I recently embarked on our NHS-funded IVF journey, filled with hope and anticipation. We both knew that this could be our only chance to start the family we have longed for. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control, our first cycle was cancelled. It was devastating and, in that moment, I realised how heavy the burden of having one funded attempt can be for couples like us, hoping to become parents.
Infertility is a medical condition affecting about one in seven couples in the UK, according to the NHS. For many, IVF is the only route to parenthood, yet the access to funded cycles varies drastically across the UK. In Scotland, up to three rounds are funded for eligible couples, whereas in parts of England and Wales, some receive just one, if any at all. This stark inequality in the provision not only creates an unfair postcode lottery but adds immense pressure to what should be a supportive and hopeful process.
Statistics show that the success rate of IVF increases significantly by the third round. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) reports a success rate of one in three for those who undergo three cycles, compared to around 27% for one cycle. This demonstrates that offering more funded rounds could tremendously improve the chances of success for many hopeful parents.
Therefore, I urge the UK Government and NHS Authorities in England, Scotland, and Wales to standardise and increase the number of NHS-funded IVF rounds to at least three across the board. This change would not only level the playing field but provide countless couples with the fair chance they deserve to build their families.
Expanding the funding for IVF will support emotional well-being, reduce the financial strain on families, and bring the joy of parenthood to many more. By signing this petition, you are taking a stand for equality, hope, and the belief that everyone should have an equal opportunity to create the family they desire. Please sign and share this petition to bring about this crucial change.
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The Issue
My wife and I recently embarked on our NHS-funded IVF journey, filled with hope and anticipation. We both knew that this could be our only chance to start the family we have longed for. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control, our first cycle was cancelled. It was devastating and, in that moment, I realised how heavy the burden of having one funded attempt can be for couples like us, hoping to become parents.
Infertility is a medical condition affecting about one in seven couples in the UK, according to the NHS. For many, IVF is the only route to parenthood, yet the access to funded cycles varies drastically across the UK. In Scotland, up to three rounds are funded for eligible couples, whereas in parts of England and Wales, some receive just one, if any at all. This stark inequality in the provision not only creates an unfair postcode lottery but adds immense pressure to what should be a supportive and hopeful process.
Statistics show that the success rate of IVF increases significantly by the third round. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) reports a success rate of one in three for those who undergo three cycles, compared to around 27% for one cycle. This demonstrates that offering more funded rounds could tremendously improve the chances of success for many hopeful parents.
Therefore, I urge the UK Government and NHS Authorities in England, Scotland, and Wales to standardise and increase the number of NHS-funded IVF rounds to at least three across the board. This change would not only level the playing field but provide countless couples with the fair chance they deserve to build their families.
Expanding the funding for IVF will support emotional well-being, reduce the financial strain on families, and bring the joy of parenthood to many more. By signing this petition, you are taking a stand for equality, hope, and the belief that everyone should have an equal opportunity to create the family they desire. Please sign and share this petition to bring about this crucial change.
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Petition created on 7 September 2026