The number of couples availing of free in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment in Ireland has increased by 50 per cent within a year, RTE reported citing the figures from the Health Service Executive (HSE).
Since the State-funded fertility treatment rollout in September 2023, approximately 1,700 couples have been referred for IVF.
Initially, around 100 couples per month were being referred, but by late 2024, this had risen to 150 couples per month.
The six HSE fertility hubs are now handling up to 550 referrals monthly.
Dr. Cliona Murphy, Clinical Director of the HSE’s National Women’s and Infants Health Programme, noted that demand has steadily increased after a slow start. She highlighted that couples in the system are satisfied with the choice of services available nationwide.
Regarding success rates, Dr. Murphy stated that while outcomes can vary, the public IVF scheme reported an overall success rate of up to 40 per cent, with younger couples having a higher chance of conception.