.jpg)
.png)
Gay couples to get free IVF treatment in UK
The UK’s National Health Service gives gay couples and women over 40 the opportunity to become parents as government is set to fund their IVF treatment.
The proposal would oblige health authorities to fund fertility treatment for same-sex couples and some women up to 42.
Gay and lesbian couples will now be eligible for free fertility treatment on the UK's National Health Service.
According to the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) same-sex couples would be allowed artificial insemination, even if they don't have a diagnosed fertility problem.
The NHS watchdog says that couples who do not become pregnant after six attempts with donor semen should be referred for further investigations and IVF.
Gay men could take along a surrogate mother, who would carry the baby for them.
The recommendations are included in updated guidelines to NHS fertility provision that NICE is currently consulting on.
The guidelines also increase the upper age for IVF from 39 to 42.
People with infectious diseases such as HIV and those with a physical disability that prevents them from having sex would also be eligible for treatment.
According to the Telegraph, official figures show the number of lesbian couples undergoing IVF rose from 178 in 2007 to 417 in 2010.
One cycle of IVF can cost up to £8,000 privately. Because success rates are low - typically 20 per cent for a 38-year-old - couples can spend tens of thousands on treatment.
•
Meanwhile in Malta, if the Taliban get their way, gay couples will be prohibited from getting IVF even against payment.
