Discuss fertility preservation as an option with people who are preparing for medical treatment, or who have a medical condition, that is likely to impair their fertility. For people who need urgent treatment, this discussion should take place at the earliest possible opportunity. [2026]
When deciding whether to offer fertility preservation, take into account the following factors:
the person's diagnosis
the planned treatment
the likely outcome of subsequent fertility treatment
the person's prognosis following the treatment of the condition
the likely viability of stored or post-thawed material. [2013, amended 2026]
For NHS-funded fertility preservation, do not apply the eligibility criteria used for conventional fertility treatment, including the lower age limit. [2013, amended 2026]
Inform people who are considering fertility preservation that eligibility criteria for assisted conception in an NHS setting will apply when it comes to using stored material. [2013, amended 2026]
Offer sperm cryopreservation to men (and boys), and trans women and non-binary people with male reproductive organs who are of reproductive age, and who are preparing for medical treatment, or who have a medical condition, that is likely to make them infertile. [2026]
Offer oocyte or embryo cryopreservation (as appropriate) to women (and girls), and trans men and non-binary people with female reproductive organs who are of reproductive age, and who are preparing for medical treatment, or who have a medical condition, that is likely to make them infertile. Also see part D on fertility preservation and oocyte donation in the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) guideline on ovarian stimulation for IVF/ICSI (update 2025). [2026]
Consider ovarian tissue cryopreservation when oocyte or embryo cryopreservation is not feasible, for example, in girls before puberty. See the NICE HealthTech guidance on removal, preservation and reimplantation of ovarian tissue for restoring fertility after gonadotoxic treatment. [2026]
Organise follow-ups at least every 5 years with people who have had their material preserved to determine whether or not there is a need to continue NHS-funded storage. Offer continued NHS-funded storage for people who remain at continued significant risk of infertility, in line with legislation on consent. [2026]
For a short explanation of why the committee made the 2026 recommendations and how they might affect practice, see the rationale and impact section on fertility preservation for medical indications.
Full details of the evidence and the committee's discussion are in evidence review R: fertility preservation.