Consultations & reviews of policy
HFEA policies are reviewed regularly. Policy reviews involve extensive research, literature reviews, public consultations and open meetings, and often the commissioning of work from specialists in the field.
The information is then summarised and policy options are presented to the Authority.
Under review
Donating sperm and eggs; have your say
The HFEA is currently reviewing a number of its policies relating to sperm, egg and embryo donation. The review will continue into early 2011.
Multiple births after IVF
The greatest health risk for women following IVF is a multiple pregnancy. The HFEA carried out a detailed review and public consultation to identify the most suitable policy for reducing these rates.
Review of scientific methods to avoid mitochondria disease
The HFE Act 199 (as amended) allows for regulations to be passed that will allow techniques, which alter the mitochondrial DNA of an egg or embryo, to be used in assisted conception to prevent the transmission of serious mitochondrial disease. The HFEA)has agreed to a request from the Secretary of State for Health to scope “expert views on the effectiveness and safety of mitochondrial transfer”.
Past reviews
Read how the HFEA have reviewed its policies over the years. From human reproductive cloning to human-animal hybrids - subjects have covered areas of ethical, scientific and social significance.
Genetic testing
From sex selection to testing embryos for inheritable disorders - our past reviews on genetic testing have covered some controversial and topical issues.
Embryo research
Read about our past reviews in this comparatively new area of research. Policy reviews have covered issues of cloning and of human/animal hybrid research.
Fees and regulation
The HFEA have undertaken a number of public consultations and reviews around the way it regulates and sets standards for fertility treatment and research clinics.
Risks of treatment (Tomorrow's children - Welfare of the child review)
The HFEA gives guidance to clinics on how to go about making a 'welfare of the child' assessment for those seeking fertility treatment. The HFEA undertook a review to find the best method of passing on such guidance.
Clinical safety
Read our past reviews about our policies on safety procedures and regulations at fertility clinics. Topics have covered safe cryopreservation of gametes and embryos and best practice for witnessing the identification of donated samples.
Donation
The HFEA have undertaken a number of policy reviews around matters of donor-assisted conception regulation. They have covered matters from the payment of donors, to donating for research.
Page last updated: 21 April 2009
Find out what fertility treatment options are available and what to expect if you decide to go ahead.