What does it mean?
As with everything related to infertility, it's all in the details.
When reading your CCGs policy it is useful to note down some basic notes, and any questions you may have. Some of the important ones include:
1. What is a cycle? NICE might say a cycle is the transfer of an embryo, but it's important to check your own CCGs policy as they may say that a cycle is up to egg collection (or donor egg, if applicable), or even that a cycle is completed when all embryos created from one egg collection are transferred.
2. What about frozen embryos? If you are lucky enough to get frozen embryos it's important to check what is covered; although it's probably preferably to check this before you start your cycle so you don't get a shock on the day! Some areas may pay for the freezing for a few years, others will want you to pay, some will cover the cost of freezing and transfers, and others will only cover a limited number.
3. How do I qualify for funding? Everywhere has different rules regarding things like children from previous relationships, BMI, and smoking. Don't rely on what other people tell you happened to them, and don't necessarily trust what you read on the web or in the news. Check this information directly with your CCG as they do change their policies, but it's not always accurately update on other websites.
4. What is included in my funding? Can I pay for extra things to help it work? In some areas your treatment covers all your drugs, the IVF/ICSI process, and freezing. In other areas you may have to pay some NHS prescription charges for some of your drugs, or towards the freezing of embryos. With regards to "extras" (like embryo glue, the scratch, and drugs like intralipids or steroids) it can get quite complicated. Some things may be available under your funding, or may be available by being part of a "research trial", or you may be allowed to pay privately for them (either at your own clinic, or elsewhere), or they may not be allowed at all. Additionally, you may be allowed to be treated empirically (e.g. Without having the tests to prove you could benefit from the treatment), or be treated if you have privately paid for tests that prove you would benefit. However, even if you have proof that something could help (like steroids or aspirin), you may not be allowed to use them as part of a NHS funded cycle if it has been done privately.
It's very important that if you have any questions or queries (e.g. your questions are not clearly/easily answered by the policy document) that you contact your CCG directly, preferably in writing. Don't just go on what friends/GPs/Nurses/clinics have said, make sure you hear it straight from the horse's mouth!
I would also recommend that you find this information out before your first appointment for fertility treatment so that you understand the treatment/service you are entitled to, and that you don't miss out on anything that can help you in this difficult journey.