NHS IVF Eligibility — Somerset
Full eligibility criteria, cycle entitlements, and what's funded for patients in the Somerset Integrated Care Board area.
At a glance
Cycles funded
1
Max age
39
BMI range
19–30
Relationship required
Yes
Cycle includes FET
Yes
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.
Previous privately funded treatment will not preclude patients from NHS eligibility, but previous cycles are considered by clinician in determining clinical appropriateness.
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
Unstimulated IUI must be considered as treatment option for same-sex relationships.
Fertility preservation available; no IVF cycles for single patients explicitly.
Smoking policy
Funding not approved for patients who are smokers; referred to Stop Smoking Services.
Notable restrictions to be aware of
- →Max age 39 — no treatment for 40-42
- →Only 1 cycle funded
- →Male partner must be under 54
- →Minimum age 23 for prospective birth parent
- →Stable relationship of 2 years required
- →Visa holders on UK visa not eligible
- →Funding period is 10 months from approval
Source: SOM policy v2526.v7e (August 2025). One full IVF/ICSI cycle with FET.
ICB policies change. Always confirm current criteria directly with your GP or the Somerset ICB before making treatment decisions.
Common questions about NHS IVF in Somerset
How many IVF cycles does Somerset fund?
Somerset 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 Somerset?
The maximum age for NHS IVF in Somerset is 39. Women over this age are not eligible for funded treatment.
Does Somerset fund frozen embryo transfers (FETs)?
Yes. Somerset includes frozen embryo transfers (FETs) within the funded cycle. Up to 1 FET per cycle.
Does previous private IVF affect NHS eligibility in Somerset?
Previous private IVF may reduce NHS entitlement in Somerset. Previous privately funded treatment will not preclude patients from NHS eligibility, but previous cycles are considered by clinician in determining clinical appropriateness.
Can single women access NHS IVF in Somerset?
Fertility preservation available; no IVF cycles for single patients explicitly.
Are same-sex couples eligible for NHS IVF in Somerset?
Unstimulated IUI must be considered as treatment option for same-sex relationships.
Is a relationship required for NHS IVF in Somerset?
Somerset 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]