The World Health Organisation (WHO) has released its first comprehensive global guidelines aimed at improving how infertility is prevented, diagnosed and treated worldwide. The landmark publication, issued on November 28, 2025, marks a significant step toward addressing a condition that impacts millions.
“One in six people worldwide experience infertility during their lifetime,” said Pascale Allotey, who leads the organisation’s sexual and reproductive health division. She stressed that while infertility affects people in every region, “access to safe and affordable care remains highly inequitable”.
Allotey added that the newly issued framework offers a “unified, evidence-based foundation” to help countries ensure that fertility care is effective, accessible and safe for everyone.
Infertility, as defined by the WHO, is a disorder of the male or female reproductive system in which pregnancy does not occur after 12 months or more of consistent, unprotected intercourse. The organisation noted that the condition often causes emotional strain, social stigma and severe financial pressure. In many nations, individuals must cover most of the expenses for diagnostic tests and treatments themselves—resulting in what WHO describes as “catastrophic financial expenditures”.
The cost of advanced procedures can be overwhelming. “In some settings, even a single round of In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) can cost double the average annual household income,” the guidelines state.
The new document includes 40 recommendations and urges governments to incorporate fertility services into national health strategies, funding systems and service delivery frameworks. It also outlines steps for strengthening clinical practices, from early diagnosis to advanced treatment.
Among its advice, the WHO highlights the need for thorough assessment of male infertility—an area it says is frequently under-examined. The recommendations suggest starting with counselling and lifestyle guidance before moving on to medical interventions. The organisation also calls for more investment in preventive measures.
According to the WHO, healthcare providers should focus on major factors contributing to infertility, such as untreated sexually transmitted infections and smoking, to reduce the burden on individuals and health systems.