New data just published by the HFEA (Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority), the UK’s fertility regulator, has shown that the average age at which women in the UK start fertility treatment has risen to over 35 for the first time.
In 2000 the average age for first time fertility patients was 33 but by 2022 it was just over 35. Factors thought to have contributed to the rise include the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, which delayed access to fertility treatment for some patients and for others meant that their chances of meeting a partner were curtailed by lockdowns.
Other relevant factors are the decrease in the proportion of NHS-funded IVF cycles – from 40% in 2012 to just 27% in 2022 – and the increased cost of living making it more difficult to self-fund fertility treatment.
It is well known however that the chances of success with any form of fertility treatment reduce with chronological age. The HFEA’s research found that whilst average IVF pregnancy rates have improved across all age groups, from 21% per fresh embryo transferred in 2012 up to 31% in 2022, the highest success rates – 42% – were seen in the 18 – 34 age group.
This means that by delaying the age at which they begin fertility treatment, patients could potentially be jeopardising their chances of an ultimately successful outcome.
At NOW-fertility we recommend that patients seek help in the form of a referral to a specialist fertility clinic – through either a GP or by self-referral – at the earliest opportunity, to avoid any possible delays to the start of fertility treatment if this proves necessary.
Treatment is available with us with no waiting times and through our network of partner clinics, we can recommend the best clinic to suit your needs without any further delays.
To find out more please contact us at https://now-fertility.com/contact/
Published by NOW-fertility’s Communication Department.
Communication Manager: Annette Eckersley
E: annetteeckersley@now-fertility.com
