Couples in Ireland unable to have babies naturally have been given fresh hope following the first birth here through a pioneering assisted reproduction technique that increases the chances of expectant mothers.

WIDESPREAD concern among fertility experts that women are leaving it too late to have children has led to calls for a national fertility awareness campaign, beginning in the classroom.

DECISIVE new guidelines have been issued to doctors and nurses on the care of patients receiving fertility treatment following an inquiry into the death of a young woman after a reaction to IVF treatment.

EITHER partner in a couple undergoing fertility treatment should have the right to back out of the arrangement if they change their mind, a group representing fertility practitioners said.