About Fertility
According to the World Health Organisation Infertility is a global health issue affecting millions of people of reproductive age worldwide. Available data suggests that globally one in six people experience infertility in their lifetime. Infertility is a disease of the male or female reproductive system defined by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Primary infertility is the inability to have any pregnancy, while secondary infertility is the inability to have a pregnancy after previously successful conception. WHO’s International Classification of Diseases provides more information on the many primary and secondary causes of infertility in both women and men.
Infertility may occur due to male factors, female factors, a combination of male and female factors or may be unexplained. For both women and men, however, lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol intake and obesity have been associated with higher chances of infertility.
From the WHO website https://www.who.int/health-topics/infertility#tab=tab_2
HSE – Publicly Funded IVF Scheme
The publicly funded IVF scheme launched in September 2023, provides Free Fertility Services through the HSE to couples struggling to conceive. You can access free assisted human reproduction services (including IVF) from the HSE at an HSE-approved private fertility clinic of your choice.
Please find the link to the HSE’s Fertility Information booklet and the HSE’s fertility page below.
What to expect at a regional fertility hub
Dr LucyAnn Behan, Consultant Endocrinologist in the Coombe Hospital explore the different investigations and treatments available in the Regional Fertility Hub. There are 6 hubs around the country – in Dublin in the National Maternity Hospital, the Rotunda Hospital and the Coombe Hospital, and across the country in Cork, Galway and Nenagh.
Watch a short video explaining how this works.
Useful links
Treoir
The National Specialist Information Service for unmarried parents and their children providing clear and up-to-date information free of charge to parents who are not…
National Women’s Council of Ireland (NWCI)
The NWCI is the leading national women’s membership organisation seeking equality between women and men in Ireland.
Irish Fertility Counsellors Association
A dedicated group of fertility counsellors from across Ireland.
Fertility Network UK
Provides free and impartial support, advice, information and understanding for anyone affected by fertility issues.
Miscarriage Association of Ireland
Offer advice, information and peer support for those experiencing or who have experienced miscarriage.
Frequently asked questions
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