NHS IVF Eligibility — Birmingham and Solihull
Full eligibility criteria, cycle entitlements, and what's funded for patients in the Birmingham and Solihull Integrated Care Board area.
At a glance
Cycles funded
1
Max age
39
BMI range
––30
Relationship required
Yes
Cycle includes FET
No
1st year storage
Funded
Eligibility criteria
Up to age 39.
BMI must be between 19 and 30.
Neither partner may have a living child from any relationship (including adopted children).
Must be in a stable relationship (typically 2+ years). Single patients may not be eligible.
NHS infertility treatment will not be offered where either partner has already undertaken any previous infertility treatment, regardless of NHS or private funding.
What's funded
Funding covers stimulated phase only. Frozen embryo transfers (FETs) are not included and must be self-funded.
First year of embryo storage is funded. Maximum 1 year NHS-funded storage.
Not funded. Self-pay only.
Self-funded add-ons are not permitted during NHS-funded treatment.
Same-sex couples & single patients
Female same-sex couples eligible if all other criteria met. Must self-fund 6 cycles of IUI/DI first.
Not explicitly addressed for IVF access.
Smoking policy
Smoking in either partner negatively affects treatment. Patients advised but not explicitly excluded.
Notable restrictions to be aware of
- →Max age 39 — no treatment for 40-42
- →Only 1 cycle funded
- →NO previous fertility treatment allowed (NHS or private) — one of strictest in England
- →Frozen embryos NOT funded — stored 12 months max then self-funded
- →No part-funding or co-funding available
- →Male partner must be under 55
Source: BSOL parsed policy. One of the most restrictive ICBs in England: max age 39, 1 cycle, zero tolerance for previous treatment, frozen embryos not funded.
ICB policies change. Always confirm current criteria directly with your GP or the Birmingham and Solihull ICB before making treatment decisions.
Common questions about NHS IVF in Birmingham and Solihull
How many IVF cycles does Birmingham and Solihull fund?
Birmingham and Solihull funds 1 cycle of IVF.
What is the maximum age for NHS IVF in Birmingham and Solihull?
The maximum age for NHS IVF in Birmingham and Solihull is 39. Women over this age are not eligible for funded treatment.
Does Birmingham and Solihull fund frozen embryo transfers (FETs)?
No. Birmingham and Solihull funds the stimulation phase only. Frozen embryo transfers (FETs) are not included and must be self-funded.
Does previous private IVF affect NHS eligibility in Birmingham and Solihull?
Yes. Any previous IVF treatment — whether NHS or privately funded — disqualifies patients from NHS-funded treatment in Birmingham and Solihull.
Can single women access NHS IVF in Birmingham and Solihull?
Not explicitly addressed for IVF access.
Are same-sex couples eligible for NHS IVF in Birmingham and Solihull?
Female same-sex couples eligible if all other criteria met. Must self-fund 6 cycles of IUI/DI first.
Is a relationship required for NHS IVF in Birmingham and Solihull?
Birmingham and Solihull requires patients to be in a stable relationship to access NHS-funded IVF. Single patients may not be eligible. Confirm current criteria with your GP or the ICB directly.
Check your personal eligibility
Enter your postcode, age, and situation for a personalised NHS eligibility result.
This page provides general information only. It does not constitute medical or legal advice. NHS eligibility decisions are made by your GP and ICB — always confirm with your GP before making treatment decisions. [email protected]