Chloe Newton-Gould and her partner Josh Samain, who live in Rustington, have been in a relationship since the ages of 15 and 16.
The pair, who are both 23, have “always dreamed of having a family” but knew their path to parenthood might be more difficult due to Chloe’s polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
In April, when they felt ready to start a family, Chloe attended her GP surgery to begin tests before she was referred to a fertility clinic. Due to her PCOS, she is not able to ovulate as normal.
However, the fertility treatment they were hoping for was thrown into doubt during their first appointment.
Chloe said: “On August 21, we had our first video call, it was an assessment.
“She was not sure whether we would get fertility treatment because my partner uses cannabis for his Tourette’s.
“We had to wait for her to get back to us.”
Josh uses prescribed cannabis through a vape on a medicinal basis to manage the symptoms of his Tourette’s, which cause him to “really struggle day to day” and prevent him from working.
On October 2, the couple received the news that they had been declined for NHS IVF funding.
They obtained a valid prescription for the cannabis use, which they submitted to the fertility clinic.
However, three weeks later, they were again declined for the funding.
“Even though it’s prescribed we still fall into that category of not being eligible,” Chloe said.
“Our clinic has been very supportive. It’s discriminating against Josh. He really does need it.
“I think it’s absolutely disgusting.
“Josh has tried every medication under the sun.
“We have seen a difference since he’s been taking the prescribed cannabis.
“He’s now got a full time job. For the best part of five years he’s never worked.
“We feel like our goal is not in our hands anymore.”
The pair were told Josh would have to stop using cannabis for six months, which Chloe said “would not be possible”.
They have since complained to PALS and lodged an appeal against the decision.
Chloe added: “It’s a waiting game.”
A spokeswoman for NHS Sussex said: “We are currently working with this couple and their clinical team to make sure they receive the right advice, support, and explore all avenues for their IVF funding application.
“To date, NHS funding has not been agreed as they do not currently meet the eligibility criteria, which includes both partners needing to be non-smokers, including not using e-cigarettes or vaping for at least six months before referral for specialist fertility treatment.
“This policy reflects national guidance that smoking and vaping can affect fertility and treatment outcomes, and we apply this equally to all applicants for IVF funding.
“We know and understand how important this funding is for people who are trying to conceive and will continue to support the couple to explore appropriate options within NHS policy.”
