CFAI Fertility Grant Scheme 2012
The CFAI Fertility Grant provides financial support to people with cystic fibrosis (PWCF) and their respective partners who wish to undergo fertility assessment/treatment in the hope of becoming pregnant. Since this scheme was first rolled out in 2010, a total of 14 fertility grants have been awarded to members.
Fertility in males with CF
Research states that approximately 98% of males with cystic fibrosis are infertile (Kotloff et al 1992, McCallum et al 2000). This is normally due to absence of the vas deferens, a tube that carries sperm from the testis to the penis - in males with CF this tube fails to develop properly and may prevent the passage of sperm to their intended destination. Males with CF are strongly advised not to assume they are infertilie and to discuss contraception with their CF team.
Fertility in females with CF
Fertility problems in females with CF may be related to general ill health, poor weight, or poor control of CF-related diabetes mellitus (Johannesson et al, 1997; Edenborough, 2001; Stallings et al, 2005). Midway through the menstrual cycle when the egg is released from the ovary the mucus that is found at the lower end (the cervix) of the womb (the uterus) thins and allows easier passage of sperm into the uterus. Increased thickness of this mucus in women with CF may theoretically act as a barrier to sperm penetration and reduce fertility. In reality, the majority of women with CF become pregnant without any difficulty. Women with CF do produce healthy, fertile eggs so effective contraception is necessary.
The decision to go ahead with any form of fertility treatment should be thoroughly discussed with and endorsed by your Cystic Fibrosis Consultant and multidisciplinary team.
How much funding is available?
The value of the grant for first-time applicants in 2012 is €3,000. Members who previously availed of the fertility grant are eligible to apply for a second time - the value of the grant for second-time applicants is €2,000. Members cannot currently apply for the fertility grant a third time.How do I apply?
A Fertility Grant Application form and supporting documentation from your CF Consultant and the fertility clinic you plan on attending must be sent to CFAI National Office by a particular deadline. Members are advised to read the fertility grant guidelines in advance of applying for this grant.What is the deadline for all applications?
The deadline for submission of fertility grant application and supporting documentation is Friday 28th September 2012.
Application Forms, Guidance Notes and More Information:
CFAI Fertility Grant 2012 - Application Form
CFAI Fertility Grant 2012 - Policy and Guidelines
Additional Supports
There are some fertility clinics in Ireland that offer fertility treatment at a reduced cost to couples who are both medical card holders, subject to demand and at the discretion of the relevant clinic. If you and your partner meet these criteria, we recommend you talk to your GP or fertility clinic for more information.
In addition, if you have private health insurance we recommend contacting your provider to see if fertility treatment is covered under your plan.
For further information about this call, please contact:
Alica May
Services and Information Officer
t: 01 496 2433
e: amay@cfireland.ie
