The World Health Organization has issued its first global guideline on infertility, urging countries to make fertility care safer, more affordable and more accessible. The organisation says infertility is a growing public health concern that has not received the attention it deserves.
WHO estimates that one in six people of reproductive age experience infertility at some point in their lives. Despite this, access to tests and treatment remains limited in many countries. Most people must pay for care out of pocket, which leads to major financial stress. In some places, a single IVF cycle can cost more than twice the average household’s yearly income.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said infertility is both a medical issue and an equity issue. He said millions of people struggle to access proper care and often turn to cheaper, unproven treatments. Many are forced to choose between pursuing parenthood and protecting their financial security. Dr Tedros urged governments to adopt the new guideline to help people receive affordable and reliable care.
What the new WHO guideline recommends
The guideline includes 40 recommendations that cover prevention, diagnosis and treatment. It also calls for countries to integrate fertility care into national health strategies and financing systems. WHO says this will help improve services using evidence-based and cost-effective methods.
Understanding infertility and its impact
Infertility means a couple is unable to get pregnant even after trying for at least one year without protection. This can be very stressful and emotionally draining. Many people also face social pressure and judgment, which makes the situation even harder. It can also become expensive for families seeking treatment. The WHO says these challenges can affect a person’s mental and emotional health, and that better support and understanding are needed.
Prevention through awareness and early action
The guideline urges countries to promote information about fertility and infertility in schools, primary health centres and reproductive health facilities. It stresses the importance of understanding factors that affect fertility, including age. It also highlights major risk factors such as untreated sexually transmitted infections and tobacco use. WHO recommends lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, regular exercise and quitting tobacco for people planning or attempting pregnancy. Early awareness, the organisation says, helps people make informed decisions.
Clear clinical pathways for diagnosis and treatment
For diagnosis, the guideline outlines steps to identify common biological causes of infertility in both men and women. It explains how clinicians can progressively move from basic management, such as providing guidance on fertile periods, to more advanced treatment options. These include intrauterine insemination and IVF. WHO says treatment decisions should consider clinical findings as well as the preferences of patients.
Supporting mental and emotional well-being
Recognising the emotional toll infertility can take, the guideline calls for regular access to psychosocial support. WHO says people facing infertility often experience anxiety, depression and feelings of isolation, and emotional support should be part of routine care.
Adapting the guideline around the world
WHO is encouraging countries to adopt and adapt the recommendations to their own contexts. It says successful implementation will require cooperation between health ministries, medical organisations, civil society and patient groups. The organisation also explains that infertility care should be aligned with broader sexual and reproductive health rights, helping people make informed and voluntary decisions about having children.
WHO notes that certain areas still lack strong evidence, and future editions of the guideline will address more topics. These may include fertility preservation, third-party reproduction and the effects of pre-existing medical conditions on fertility.
