Science Story

02 December 2008 23:04 BST

IVF demand increases

Demand for the fertility treatment IVF is continuing to rise in the UK, according to latest figures released today.

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) says that patient numbers rose by six per cent from 2004 to 2005, with 32,626 women treated in 2005 compared to 30,861 in 2004.

This saw 11,262 children born as a result of IVF in 2005.

Multiple births resulting from IVF also rose, with 22.7 per cent of IVF births being a twin or triplet in 2004 compared to 24 per cent in 2005.

The HFEA says this is "a concern because of the increased risk to mothers and babies".

Earlier this week the body announced that it would be working with other professional groups to develop a national strategy to reduce the number of multiple births that occurs following fertility treatment.

As many as 126 IVF babies die each year as a result of being born as part of a multiple birth and many more face serious health issues.

As well as launching the strategy, Alan Doran, interim HFEA chief executive, said the authority "will also review the way our data is presented to ensure that patients and clinics are able to make the most of the information we gather about their treatments".

The HFEA runs a fertility clinic search on its website, including details on the services provided and numbers of children born.

"Good and comprehensive information is vital for any patient making choices about their treatment options," Mr Doran said.

"The HFEA interactive Find a Clinic search is the comprehensive and expert source of information for patients considering IVF or Donor insemination treatment in the UK.

"We are committed to provide accessible and useful information for patients as quickly as we can and our speeding up our processes to make this as up-to-date as we possibly can."