INFERTILE couples in Worcestershire can only qualify for two full cycles of IVF treatment – if they meet strict criteria.

A study from a cross-party group of MPs, out today, has found 73 per cent of NHS trusts are ignoring guidance to offer couples three chances at IVF and have placed strict restrictions on who is eligible, while some have stopped funding the treatment altogether – resulting in a postcode lottery.

In 2004, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) said couples should be given up to three cycles of IVF on the NHS where the woman is aged 23 to 39.

NHS Worcestershire’s IVF policy does cater for that age range but while the policy is currently under review the number of treatments – two – will not change.

It also offers up to two full fresh cycles of intra cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and up to three cycles of intrauterine insemination (IUI).

Treatment options depend on diagnosis and clinical appropriateness but women should have a body mass index (BMI) in the range 19 to 30.

However, they will not get funding if they have previously had three or more cycles of conception treatment.

The couple will qualify for funding if they have no children living in the household – that includes an adopted child or a child from a previous relationship – but same sex couples where there is no discernible fertility problem will not be supported.