NHS IVF Eligibility — Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire
Full eligibility criteria, cycle entitlements, and what's funded for patients in the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board area.
At a glance
Cycles funded
1
Max age
39
BMI range
19–29.9
Relationship required
No
Cycle includes FET
Yes
1st year storage
Funded
Eligibility criteria
Up to age 39.
BMI must be between 19 and 29.9.
Neither partner may have a living child from any relationship (including adopted children).
Single patients and all relationship types are eligible.
Patients who have previously self-funded unsuccessful fertility treatment are eligible for NHS funded fertility treatment. Must not have previously received a cycle of NHS funded fertility treatment.
What's funded
A full cycle includes the stimulated phase plus frozen embryo transfers (FETs). Up to 1 FET per cycle.
First year of embryo storage is funded.
Not funded. Self-pay only.
Self-funded add-ons are permitted alongside NHS treatment.
Any frozen embryos from previous cycles (including self-funded) must be used before NHS-funded treatment begins.
Same-sex couples & single patients
Same sex couples eligible after 6 independently funded non-stimulated cycles of HFEA-approved IUI. Both partners must accept joint legal responsibility for any child.
Single women eligible after 6 independently funded non-stimulated cycles of IUI from HFEA approved source.
Smoking policy
Prospective mother must be a non-smoker as confirmed in primary care records. Smokers must demonstrate non-smoking prior to assessment.
Notable restrictions to be aware of
- →Only 1 cycle funded
- →Max age 39 — no treatment for 40-42
- →Prospective father must not be older than 54th birthday at referral
- →For ages 37-39, BMI range extended to 19-35 for assessment
- →Neither prospective parent may have been sterilised, even if reversed
- →Abandoned cycle for clinical reasons still counts as funded fresh cycle
Source: BNSSG policy (April 2023). Notable for explicitly allowing previous private IVF and single women. Full cycle includes 1 fresh + 1 FET.
ICB policies change. Always confirm current criteria directly with your GP or the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire ICB before making treatment decisions.
Common questions about NHS IVF in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire
How many IVF cycles does Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire fund?
Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire funds 1 cycle of IVF. Each funded cycle includes the stimulation phase plus all resulting frozen embryo transfers (FETs).
What is the maximum age for NHS IVF in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire?
The maximum age for NHS IVF in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire is 39. Women over this age are not eligible for funded treatment.
Does Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire fund frozen embryo transfers (FETs)?
Yes. Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire includes frozen embryo transfers (FETs) within the funded cycle. Up to 1 FET per cycle.
Does previous private IVF affect NHS eligibility in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire?
Previous private IVF does not affect NHS eligibility in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. Patients who have self-funded previous cycles may still access their full NHS entitlement.
Can single women access NHS IVF in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire?
Single women eligible after 6 independently funded non-stimulated cycles of IUI from HFEA approved source.
Are same-sex couples eligible for NHS IVF in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire?
Same sex couples eligible after 6 independently funded non-stimulated cycles of HFEA-approved IUI. Both partners must accept joint legal responsibility for any child.
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]