NHS IVF Eligibility — Cornwall and Isles of Scilly
Full eligibility criteria, cycle entitlements, and what's funded for patients in the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board area.
At a glance
Cycles funded
1
Max age
40
BMI range
19–29.9
Relationship required
Yes
Cycle includes FET
Yes
1st year storage
Funded
Eligibility criteria
Up to age 40.
BMI must be between 19 and 29.9.
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.
No couple may receive an NHS funded IVF cycle if they have previously received a total of 3 self-funded cycles. Neither partner may have had previous NHS funded specialist 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. Maximum 1 year NHS-funded storage.
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 with a diagnosed fertility problem will have subfertility treated, but NHS funding not available for donor insemination (female couples) or surrogacy (male couples).
Policy is for couples only; single patients not covered.
Smoking policy
Both partners must have ceased smoking (including e-cigarettes) for at least 6 months before treatment.
Notable restrictions to be aware of
- →Only 1 cycle funded
- →Max age 40 — no treatment for women 40-42
- →Must be in stable, financially interdependent relationship for at least 2 years
- →6 months smoke-free required (includes e-cigarettes)
- →Embryo storage funded for only 1 year
- →Previous sterilisation excludes eligibility even if reversal was successful
- →One abandoned IVF cycle may be replaced; subsequent abandoned cycles will not be funded
Source: CIOS Commissioning Policies PDF (November 2016). Strictest smoking policy — includes e-cigarettes.
ICB policies change. Always confirm current criteria directly with your GP or the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly ICB before making treatment decisions.
Common questions about NHS IVF in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly
How many IVF cycles does Cornwall and Isles of Scilly fund?
Cornwall and Isles of Scilly 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 Cornwall and Isles of Scilly?
The maximum age for NHS IVF in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly is 40. Women over this age are not eligible for funded treatment.
Does Cornwall and Isles of Scilly fund frozen embryo transfers (FETs)?
Yes. Cornwall and Isles of Scilly includes frozen embryo transfers (FETs) within the funded cycle. Up to 1 FET per cycle.
Does previous private IVF affect NHS eligibility in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly?
Previous private IVF may reduce NHS entitlement in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly. No couple may receive an NHS funded IVF cycle if they have previously received a total of 3 self-funded cycles. Neither partner may have had previous NHS funded specialist fertility treatment.
Can single women access NHS IVF in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly?
Policy is for couples only; single patients not covered.
Are same-sex couples eligible for NHS IVF in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly?
Same sex couples with a diagnosed fertility problem will have subfertility treated, but NHS funding not available for donor insemination (female couples) or surrogacy (male couples).
Is a relationship required for NHS IVF in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly?
Cornwall and Isles of Scilly 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]