First two-child fertility policy baby in Anhui

Liu Gengsheng, the first baby born after the fine-tuned family planning policy in East China's Anhui province was changed, finds all the attention tiring at a hospital in Hefei, Feb 23, 2014. Anhui became the third province to relax the one-child policy on Jan 23, allowing couples to have a second baby if either parent is an only child. MORE ABOUT CONCEIVE PLUS If you have just started trying to get pregnant or have been trying for a while, Conceive Plus® can help increase your chances of conception naturally! Recommended by doctors, pharmacists and fertility clinics in more than 60 countries, this is the fertility friendly lubricant approved by the FDA and a prescription is not required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was China's two-child policy and how did it affect family planning?

China's two-child policy was introduced gradually from 2013, initially allowing couples to have a second child if one parent was an only child. This marked a significant shift from the strict one-child policy that had been in place since 1979, and was eventually expanded nationwide in 2016 to allow all couples to have two children.

How does family planning policy differ between the UK and China?

Unlike China's historical government-imposed birth limits, the UK has no restrictions on how many children couples can have. In the UK, family planning support is available through the NHS, with NICE guidelines recommending that couples who haven't conceived after one year of trying should be offered investigations and potential treatment.

Can I get fertility support on the NHS if I'm trying for a second child?

NHS fertility treatment eligibility varies by local Integrated Care Board (ICB), and some areas do have restrictions for couples who already have children. It's worth checking your local ICB's criteria, as NICE guidelines recommend that women under 40 should be offered up to three cycles of IVF, though not all areas fund treatment for those with existing children.

How common are fertility issues for UK couples trying to conceive?

According to NHS statistics, around 1 in 7 UK couples experience difficulties when trying to conceive. If you've been trying for over a year without success, or six months if you're over 36, it's advisable to speak with your GP about a referral for fertility investigations.

What are the NHS waiting times for fertility treatment in the UK?

NHS waiting times for fertility treatment can vary significantly depending on your area, with some couples waiting 12 months or more for IVF treatment. Your GP can provide information about local waiting times, and the HFEA website offers useful resources for understanding your options, including both NHS and private treatment pathways.

Does age affect fertility treatment eligibility on the NHS?

Yes, age is a significant factor in NHS fertility treatment eligibility. NICE guidelines recommend that IVF should be offered to women aged 40-42 who have never had IVF before and meet certain criteria, whilst women under 40 may be eligible for up to three full cycles, depending on local ICB funding policies.

What lifestyle changes can help when trying to conceive naturally?

The NHS recommends maintaining a healthy weight, reducing alcohol intake, stopping smoking, and taking folic acid supplements when trying to conceive. Using fertility-friendly lubricants and tracking your cycle can also support your conception journey, and speaking with your GP can provide personalised guidance based on your circumstances.