Ireland’s first state-funded fertility treatment program has achieved a major milestone: the birth of its first baby. Health Minister Stephen Donnelly announced this exciting news, along with plans to expand the program.
Key points:
- Over 1,000 couples have received free fertility treatments since September 2023.
- The program offers in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and other treatments at no cost.
- Currently, about 1,500 couples benefit annually.
- The government aims to widen eligibility criteria to help more people.
Possible changes include:
- Increasing age limits
- Allowing more treatment cycles
- Including single people and those using donor materials
“We’ve just had our first live birth from IVF. It’s fantastic, new life,” Donnelly said.
While the program has been successful, the minister admits the current rules are “too conservative.” A review in September will look at how to expand access while staying within budget.
According to The Journal, one definite change: the program will soon cover treatments using donor eggs or sperm, helping single people and same-sex couples.
As Ireland’s first public fertility program continues to grow, more families may soon experience the joy of welcoming a child through assisted reproduction.