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Scotland reviews IVF rules with aim of widening NHS fertility access

A national review will examine access for single women, blended families, fertility preservation and people waiting for donor eggs or sperm.

By THE TEA · 31 August 2026

A modern healthcare building, used as a representative image for NHS fertility services and not as a photograph of a Scottish fertility centre Image: Photo: Joel Filipe / UnsplashOriginal source

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Scotland is reviewing the rules that determine who can access NHS-funded IVF, with the aim of making fertility fairer and more consistent.

The national review will consider extending access to single women and to couples where both partners already have a child from a previous relationship.

It will also examine fertility preservation, including support after cancer treatment, and look at waiting times for people who need donor eggs or sperm.

Scotland currently offers new patients up to three full NHS-funded IVF cycles. The review will also consider updated NICE guidance on whether additional cycles should be available after unsuccessful treatment.

The National Fertility Group is expected to report with costed recommendations by early summer 2027.