Fertility industry is 'panicking' couples
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Fertility clinics are to face tougher checks on counselling patients, amid concerns some couples are being "panicked" into expensive treatment they may not need.
The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority said yesterday it would introduce a system for regulating clinics which would keep pace with developments in the industry. It will set up criteria against which clinics will be judged, including the quality of counselling offered to prospective patients and the appropriateness of the treatment.
Suzi Leather, the chairman of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, is concerned that couples were being pressured into undergoing tests for fertility problems although they had the ability to conceive naturally if they allowed more time.
Guidelines from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists state tests should start only after a couple has been trying for two years. But Ms Leather, who has three children, said: "An international study found many couples are being panicked into treatment by clinics.
"IVF is expensive and there is ... massive physical strain on the woman. Wherever someone can benefit from fertility treatment for commercial gain there is a risk some people will be pushed into it."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments