What are the current NICE guidelines for referring patients to fertility specialists for assisted conception?

In women aged under 40 years who have not conceived after 2 years of regular unprotected intercourse or 12 cycles of artificial insemination, offer 3 full cycles of IVF, with or without ICSI. ¹

In women aged 40 to 42 years who have not conceived after 2 years of regular unprotected intercourse or 12 cycles of artificial insemination, offer 1 full cycle of IVF, with or without ICSI, provided they have never previously had IVF, there is no evidence of low ovarian reserve, and there has been a discussion of the additional implications of IVF and pregnancy at this age. ¹

For couples where investigations show no chance of pregnancy with expectant management and IVF is the only effective treatment, refer the woman directly to a specialist team for IVF treatment. ¹

Discuss the risks and benefits of IVF in accordance with the current HFEA Code of Practice when considering IVF as a treatment option. ¹

Offer investigations earlier than 1 year for couples identified as less likely to conceive, based on clinical judgment. ¹