Courtney Reen and Josh Grant, from Hull, have been trying to conceive for seven years but have been denied NHS-funded IVF three times because Courtney's body mass index (BMI) is too low. The couple, now aged 27 and 33 respectively, have consulted multiple dieticians and attempted to gain weight, but Courtney's BMI remains at 16, below the NHS threshold of 19.
Seven Years of Trying
The couple first sought medical help 12 months after trying to conceive naturally when Courtney was 20. They were referred to Hull and East Riding Fertility, where tests appeared normal except for Courtney's low BMI. Courtney, who is 5ft 6in and weighs 42.4kg (about 7 stone), said: "Me and Josh want this more than anything. We wanted it to happen before I turned 30. The process started seven years ago, that's when we first went to the doctors. It's so heartbreaking."
After being declined initially, Courtney was referred to a dietician who concluded she ate well but had a fast metabolism. A second dietician prescribed high-calorie protein shakes and meals, which made her feel ill, but her weight did not increase. Both dieticians discharged her as her weight remained stable.
NHS Policy on BMI
The Hull Clinical Commissioning Group policy states: "The female patient's BMI should be between 19 and 30 prior to referral to specialist services." An NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board spokesperson said: "We understand that this can be a very sensitive and distressing issue... low BMI can have a significant impact on both the safety and effectiveness of fertility treatment, as well as pregnancy outcomes for both the mother and baby."
Courtney argues that her body is healthy: "My periods are regular, my body is ready, my body is healthy." She has never met her biological father, and her mother had a similar build, weighing under 8 stone when pregnant with Courtney. Three GPs have written letters supporting her case, and her consultant has argued to the board, but all appeals were declined.
Fundraising for Private Treatment
Facing repeated rejection, the couple launched a GoFundMe page to raise funds for private IVF, which they estimate could cost around £12,000. Courtney said: "We are just trying our hardest for something that we've wanted for so long. We are full time workers, we have our own house. We are ready for a family." She added that starting the fundraiser "took a lot of strength."
The NHS spokesperson reiterated that support is available: "Where someone's BMI falls outside of this range, they are usually offered advice and support, such as referral to appropriate clinical services, to help improve their overall health prior to treatment."
