The World Health Organization (WHO) has unveiled its first comprehensive global guidelines aimed at improving the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of infertility. This initiative comes in response to the growing recognition that infertility affects approximately 1 in 6 individuals of reproductive age worldwide, highlighting a pressing public health issue that demands urgent attention.
As demand for fertility services rises globally, access remains a significant challenge. Many countries see infertility treatments largely funded out-of-pocket, leading to substantial financial burdens on individuals seeking care. For instance, a single round of in vitro fertilization (IVF) can cost more than double the average annual household income in some regions.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasized the equity issues surrounding infertility: “Infertility is one of the most overlooked public health challenges of our time and a major equity issue globally. Millions face this journey alone — priced out of care, pushed toward cheaper but unproven treatments, or forced to choose between their hopes of having children and their financial security.” He urged countries to adopt these guidelines to ensure that more people can access affordable and scientifically sound fertility care.
Key Recommendations for Improved Fertility Care
The newly released guidelines encompass 40 recommendations designed to enhance infertility care at all levels. These recommendations advocate for integrating fertility care into national health strategies, emphasizing cost-effective options throughout the treatment process. The document aims to strengthen clinical management practices and promote preventive measures.
Infertility is defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse. The psychological and financial strains associated with infertility can significantly affect individuals’ mental health and overall well-being. The guidelines address these concerns, calling for increased investment in public awareness regarding fertility and infertility, particularly in schools and healthcare facilities.
Crucial to the guidelines is the recommendation to tackle leading risk factors for infertility, including untreated sexually transmitted infections and tobacco use. Additionally, lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity, are encouraged for individuals and couples planning to conceive.
The guidelines also outline clinical pathways for diagnosing common biological causes of infertility in both men and women. They provide a structured approach for clinicians, progressing from initial advice on fertility awareness to more advanced treatment options, such as intrauterine insemination and IVF.
Addressing Emotional and Psychosocial Needs
Recognizing the emotional toll of infertility, the guidelines stress the importance of ongoing access to psychosocial support for those affected. The WHO urges countries to tailor these recommendations to their specific contexts and to monitor their implementation. Successful application will require collaboration among health ministries, professional societies, civil organizations, and patient advocacy groups.
Dr. Pascale Allotey, Director of WHO’s Department of Sexual, Reproductive, Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health and Ageing, underscored the significance of gender equality and reproductive rights in infertility care. “Empowering people to make informed choices about their reproductive lives is a health imperative and a matter of social justice,” she stated.
While the guidelines are comprehensive, they also acknowledge existing gaps in evidence and areas requiring further research. Future editions are expected to extend their focus to issues such as fertility preservation, third-party reproduction, and the effects of pre-existing medical conditions on fertility.
The WHO’s proactive measures aim not only to address infertility but also to create a more equitable healthcare landscape for all individuals, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to make informed decisions about their reproductive futures.
