People often ask me if I think fertility treatment should be funded for single women. In the past, I was conflicted because of the pressure on the NHS. But after further researching the issue, I now have a clear opinion.

I believe it is unfair and short-sighted to exclude single women from publicly funded fertility treatments. If we are committed to fairness in healthcare, single women must be included in the conversation as well as the policies.

Fair Access to Fertility Treatment

In the UK, the Women’s Health Strategy promoted inclusivity, notably including LGBTQ+ individuals in NHS-funded fertility treatments marking a significant step towards equality. However, single women have been left out, leaving a critical segment of the population unsupported. Although the strategy talks about ‘fair access’ to fertility care, most NHS policies still do not cover single women. Even for LGBTQ+ individuals, there are still many NHS groups (ICBs) that have not yet updated their policies, showing that change is slow.

There are strong reasons why single women should have the same access to fertility treatments as others. Here are five key reasons:

1. Addressing modern demographics

The exclusion of single women is especially glaring when we consider the changing societal landscape. According to recent statistics, a growing number of women spend their most fertile years single, not necessarily by choice but because of changing social and financial factors. A lack of suitable partners and financial stability often delay single women trying for a baby. This trend isn’t just a lifestyle choice; it reflects broader societal shifts. Many cannot afford fertility treatment, which can cost over £10,000. Without support, they may lose the chance to have children by the time they can afford treatment. This exclusion is not just unfair; it also means fewer future contributors to society in the future. This is an ever growing demographic, so cannot be ignored.

2. Healthcare Equity

Excluding single women from fertility treatments perpetuates inequality in healthcare access. If the NHS provides fertility treatment for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples, it should also support single women, aligning with the commitment to ‘fair access’ outlined in the Women’s Health Strategy. True fairness means including everyone who needs medical support to have a child, whatever the reason.

3. Economic Growth Through Population Sustainability

Children grow up to support the economy by working, paying taxes, and contributing to public services. Supporting single women in having children contributes to stabilising population levels, addressing the demographic challenges of an aging population. With an aging population, we need more young people to help balance the system. Helping single women have children is not just a personal issue; as this demographic continues to grow, it will benefit the entire country. Each child born represents a future contributor to the economy, helping to support public services and pension systems.

4. Cost Effectiveness in the Long Term

Critics often argue that funding fertility treatment for single women would strain the already overburdened NHS. However, investing in fertility treatment today leads to future taxpayers who contribute to the economy. Fertility treatments involve an upfront cost, but the return on investment—in the form of economically active adults who pay taxes and contribute to societal productivity—far outweighs the initial expense. The economic benefits are intergenerational. Countries with declining birth rates struggle with funding pensions, healthcare, and other services. Supporting single women in having children helps prevent this.

5. Avoiding a System of Privilege

Right now, only those who can afford expensive private treatment have access to fertility care. This creates a system where only the wealthy can become parents through medical help. Public funding ensures inclusivity, empowering single women to achieve their aspirations of parenthood regardless of financial status. Failing to address this gap perpetuates inequality and we risk creating a two-tiered system where parenthood becomes a privilege of couples and the financially well-off, rather than a right accessible to all.

Addressing NHS Funding Challenges

Of course, it is impossible to ignore the financial challenges facing the NHS. Rising demand, staff shortages, and limited budgets make prioritising healthcare funding a complex task. However, this should not mean excluding single women from fertility treatment. Solutions like means-tested support or partnerships with private clinics could help make treatment accessible while managing costs.

The Path Forward

Excluding single women from publicly funded fertility treatments is a false economy that fails to account for the broader societal and economic implications. By rectifying this oversight, the UK can take a step toward a more equitable healthcare system while safeguarding its economic future. Ensuring that all women have the opportunity to become parents, regardless of their relationship status, is not just a matter of fairness—it is an investment in the nation’s future.

Policymakers must recognise that helping single women become parents is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for both fairness and the economy. As society changes, our healthcare policies must change too.

What are your thoughts on this? I’d love to hear your views in the comments