In a significant development for women undergoing fertility treatments in Australia, those with severe deficiencies in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) will now have immediate access to Pergoveris (follitropin alfa/lutropin alfa) through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Previously, this combination therapy was only funded for use in later stages of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycles, but the new change allows women to start treatment earlier in the process.
Additionally, the number of Pergoveris pens covered by the PBS has doubled from two to four per prescription. This means women will only need to pay one patient co-payment for up to four pens, which would otherwise cost over $3,500 without the subsidy.
“This PBS change will make IVF more accessible, convenient, and affordable for patients,” said Dr. Paul Atkinson, National Medical Director and Fertility Specialist at Adora Fertility. “Fertility specialists have long advocated for removing barriers to treatment and this is a significant win for women facing fertility challenges.”
Dr. Atkinson emphasized the importance of this reform, noting that women will now be able to access the necessary medication from the outset of their IVF journey, rather than enduring multiple cycles. “For women who are against the biological clock, additional cycles add stress and time to an already challenging process,” he added.
Alongside this change, the PBS will also begin subsidizing the progestogen-only oral contraceptive, Slinda (drospirenone 4mg), starting on 1 May. Currently, around 80,000 Australian women are paying up to $80 for a three-month supply of Slinda, but under the new subsidy, they will pay just $31.60 for a four-month supply, or $7.70 for concession holders.
“Progestogen-only pills are ideal for women at risk of blood clots, those who suffer from migraines, breastfeeding mothers, smokers, overweight women, or those with high blood pressure,” explained Dr. Terri Foran, a Sexual Health Physician.
This move comes on the heels of the Federal Government’s $573 million women’s health funding announcement earlier this year, further supporting women’s health initiatives across the country.
Related topics:
Kelly Stafford Speaks Out on Infertility and Supports Chosen Fertility’s Expansion into L.A.
Vietnam Faces Growing Infertility Crisis Amid Declining Birth Rates
New Discovery Reveals Key Protein Complex Essential for Male Fertility
