NHS IVF Eligibility — Gloucestershire
Full eligibility criteria, cycle entitlements, and what's funded for patients in the Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board area.
At a glance
Cycles funded
2
Max age
39
BMI range
19–29.5
Relationship required
Yes
Cycle includes FET
Yes
1st year storage
Funded
Eligibility criteria
Up to age 39.
BMI must be between 19 and 29.5.
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.
If couples have undergone previous IVF/ICSI resulting in 2+ embryo transfers, they are NOT eligible. If only 1 previous transfer, eligible for 1 further NHS funded transfer.
What's funded
A full cycle includes the stimulated phase plus frozen embryo transfers (FETs). Up to 2 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
Available for same sex couples who meet eligibility criteria including 6+ cycles of unstimulated IUI or diagnosed infertility.
Available for single women who meet eligibility criteria. Must be assessed for stable and supportive environment.
Smoking policy
Must be non-smoking and smoke free for at least 6 months prior to assessment. Includes vaping and nicotine products.
Notable restrictions to be aware of
- →Max age 39 — significantly lower than NICE guideline of 42
- →No treatment for women aged 40-42
- →Requires 2-year stable relationship for couples
- →Minimum 12-month residency in Gloucestershire required
- →6 months smoke-free required (includes vaping)
- →Abandoned cycles after stimulation count as funded cycle
Source: GLOS policy v9 (March 2025). Max 2 fresh IVF/ICSI cycles plus up to 2 FET from first cycle.
ICB policies change. Always confirm current criteria directly with your GP or the Gloucestershire ICB before making treatment decisions.
Common questions about NHS IVF in Gloucestershire
How many IVF cycles does Gloucestershire fund?
Gloucestershire funds 2 cycles 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 Gloucestershire?
The maximum age for NHS IVF in Gloucestershire is 39. Women over this age are not eligible for funded treatment.
Does Gloucestershire fund frozen embryo transfers (FETs)?
Yes. Gloucestershire includes frozen embryo transfers (FETs) within the funded cycle. Up to 2 FET per cycle.
Does previous private IVF affect NHS eligibility in Gloucestershire?
Previous private IVF may reduce NHS entitlement in Gloucestershire. If couples have undergone previous IVF/ICSI resulting in 2+ embryo transfers, they are NOT eligible. If only 1 previous transfer, eligible for 1 further NHS funded transfer.
Can single women access NHS IVF in Gloucestershire?
Available for single women who meet eligibility criteria. Must be assessed for stable and supportive environment.
Are same-sex couples eligible for NHS IVF in Gloucestershire?
Available for same sex couples who meet eligibility criteria including 6+ cycles of unstimulated IUI or diagnosed infertility.
Is a relationship required for NHS IVF in Gloucestershire?
Gloucestershire 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]