Journal of the European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy

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WHO fact sheet on infertility gives hope to millions of infertile couples worldwide

W. Ombelet
Editor-in-Chief

Genk Institute for Fertility Technology, ZOL Hospitals, Schiepse Bos 6, 3600 Genk, Belgium.

Keywords:

equity, fact sheet, infertility, low and middle income countries, LMIC, reproductive rights, universal access, WHO


Published online: Jan 08 2021

Abstract

Although the consequences of infertility are often severe in LMIC (Low and Middle Income Countries), national and international health strategies have always focussed on reducing total fertility rates while infertility care has received no attention at all. Access to infertility care can only be achieved when good quality but affordable infertility care is linked to more effective family planning programmes. Only a global project with respect to socio-cultural, ethical, economical and political differences can be successful. The 2020 WHO fact sheet on infertility cannot be misunderstood; global access to high-quality services for family planning including fertility care is one of the core elements of reproductive health. Different strategies are presented.