Government Issues Guidelines for Infertility Treatment Services

The Ministry of Health and Population has approved the “Guidelines for the Operation of Infertility Management Services, 2082” to regulate and streamline infertility treatment (IVF) services in Nepal. The guidelines were sanctioned through a ministerial decision by Health Minister Pradeep Paudel.

The new guidelines aim to make infertility treatment services, including laboratory procedures, human resource management, and sensitive processes such as sperm and egg donation, more structured and standardized across the country.

Dr. Saroj Sharma, Head of the Ministry’s Quality Measurement and Regulation Division, said the guidelines provide a legal basis for effective regulation of infertility treatment centers and ensure uniformity in service delivery. “They set minimum standards for physical infrastructure, personnel, and laboratories, make service charges transparent, and safeguard the rights of patients and donors,” he explained.

He added, “Infertility is not only a sensitive health issue but also a complex social and psychological matter. These guidelines will serve as a cornerstone to make infertility services safer, transparent, and in line with international standards.” Dr. Sharma also stated that service providers will be held fully accountable under the guidelines, and anyone failing to comply will face strict legal action.

Health Ministry spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki highlighted that the guidelines play a crucial role in organizing and enhancing reproductive health services. “Infertility is on the rise, but questions had been raised about the quality and procedures of treatment centers. Couples risk being misled or receiving substandard care, which could endanger their lives. These guidelines will ensure safe and reliable services,” he said.

Under the new regulations, centers must obtain mandatory approval from the Ministry to provide specialized services such as IUI and IVF. Each approved center must employ qualified personnel, including infertility specialists, trained embryologists, and anesthesiologists.

Technical standards have been defined for laboratories and surgical rooms directly affecting embryo development. Service fees must adhere to government regulations, and every center is required to provide 10 percent of services free of charge to low-income and disadvantaged patients. As per the guidelines, a committee from the ministry will conduct regular monitoring, and the licenses of non-compliant centers may be revoked.

Clear criteria have also been set for sperm and egg donors. Donors must be aged 20–35, certified free from infectious diseases, and, in the case of married donors, must provide written consent from their spouse. The number of donations per individual is limited, and donor identities must remain confidential. Any coercion or inducement to donate is strictly prohibited. -- RSS