NHS IVF Eligibility — Dorset
Full eligibility criteria, cycle entitlements, and what's funded for patients in the Dorset Integrated Care Board area.
At a glance
Cycles funded
1
Max age
42
BMI range
19–30
Relationship required
Yes
Cycle includes FET
Yes
1st year storage
Funded
Eligibility criteria
Up to age 42.
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.
A maximum of 1 NHS funded cycle will be supported by NHS Dorset.
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 10 years 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
Female same-sex couples receive same access as heterosexual couples.
Fertility preservation available for single individuals; IVF access not explicitly addressed.
Smoking policy
Both partners must be non-smokers for 6 months prior to referral; carbon monoxide breath test required.
Notable restrictions to be aware of
- →Only 1 cycle funded
- →Must be referred before 42nd birthday
- →Any previous private IVF disqualifies
- →Couples must preferably be registered with same GP practice
- →Recurrent miscarriage investigation excludes fertility services access
- →Minimum 3-month interval between fresh and frozen cycles
Source: DOR policy v6.4 (March 2021). Cycle = 1 fresh + 1 FET. Oocyte/embryo cryostorage funded for up to 10 years for preservation.
ICB policies change. Always confirm current criteria directly with your GP or the Dorset ICB before making treatment decisions.
Common questions about NHS IVF in Dorset
How many IVF cycles does Dorset fund?
Dorset 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 Dorset?
The maximum age for NHS IVF in Dorset is 42. Women over this age are not eligible for funded treatment.
Does Dorset fund frozen embryo transfers (FETs)?
Yes. Dorset includes frozen embryo transfers (FETs) within the funded cycle. Up to 1 FET per cycle.
Does previous private IVF affect NHS eligibility in Dorset?
Yes. Any previous IVF treatment — whether NHS or privately funded — disqualifies patients from NHS-funded treatment in Dorset.
Can single women access NHS IVF in Dorset?
Fertility preservation available for single individuals; IVF access not explicitly addressed.
Are same-sex couples eligible for NHS IVF in Dorset?
Female same-sex couples receive same access as heterosexual couples.
Is a relationship required for NHS IVF in Dorset?
Dorset 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]