IVF Eligibility

[Desperatenamechange]

Sorry, have quick question and hoping someone can help or at least advise me on correct course of action!

Fertility appt with Consultant coming up soon. I have heard that if either partner already has a child then you are not eligible for IVF treatment on NHS.

Theres no way we can possibly afford to go private, and as my DH has a child, is there any point in continuing?

I am thinking of lying glossing over the truth and not mentioning this fact. Is there any way they can check or find out?

I'm desperate but dont want to waste the clinics time and get our hopes up for nothing either.

I have to admit that I have read that if your partner already has a child, then that does make you ineligible, but that may be different from PCT to PCT (I'm not sure). I'd have thought that assuming your GP is aware of your partner's previous child then it would be very difficult to lie to the consultant about it (as your partner would need to be there at some stage during the process).

We both have a different GP at the moment, but he says he hasn't been to see his for years! Would his GP be aware his ex had a child?

I think the PCT is one of those evil ones which discriminates against 2nd wives

Hi there

I think it depends where you are, some health authorities will and some won't

This interactive map allows you to click on your area and find out how many cycles are funded by the NHS and if there are any other restricting criteria imposed by the PCT, such as existing children. My PCT funds one cycle, but they do allow funding if either partner has a child as long as there are no children living with the couple under treatment.

I understand that the DoH is pressurising PCTs to update their commissioning arrangements to come in line with NICE guidelines. Hopefully this will reduce the postcode lottery. It may be worth persevering with a referral because your PCT's criteria may change in the future.

Certainly try and find out your PCTs policy - some certainly fund if the couple have no children TOGETHER, regardless of residency.