Global Health Body Releases First Guideline on Infertility
The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged all countries — including India — to make fertility care safer, affordable and accessible for everyone. The appeal came as WHO released its first-ever global guideline for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of infertility.
Infertility Affects 1 in 6 Adults
According to WHO, 1 in 6 adults of reproductive age faces infertility. Yet, access to fertility services remains limited, expensive and unequal.
In India and many other nations, fertility treatment is mostly paid out of pocket, forcing couples to spend huge amounts. A single IVF cycle often costs more than an average family’s yearly income, pushing many towards unsafe, unregulated or unproven treatments.
WHO Warns: Infertility Is a Major Public Health Challenge
Calling infertility “one of the most neglected global health issues,” WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said millions of people cannot afford treatment or are forced to choose between medical care and financial stability.
40 Key Recommendations for Better Fertility Care
The new WHO guideline includes 40 recommendations to help countries:
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Improve early diagnosis of infertility
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Offer cost-effective and safe treatment options
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Include fertility care within national health systems
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Strengthen public awareness about fertility and age-related decline
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Promote healthy lifestyles and prevent infertility linked to STIs, tobacco use and untreated health issues
Focus on Mental Health and Emotional Support
WHO also stresses the need to address the emotional impact of infertility. Many couples face stress, depression, anxiety, stigma and isolation. The guideline recommends providing routine psychological and social support along with medical treatment.
Call for Policy Change and Public Financing
Countries have been asked to:
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Adapt the guidelines to their local healthcare systems
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Expand insurance coverage or introduce public funding
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Ensure fertility care respects gender equality and reproductive rights
According to Dr. Pascale Allotey, fertility treatment must align with rights-based reproductive health policies.
More Updates Coming Soon
Future WHO updates will cover:
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Fertility preservation
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Third-party reproduction
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Impact of pre-existing medical conditions on fertility
