The Israeli public health insurance system covers an (almost) unlimited number of IVF cycles. In a global context, this is a policy which is looked upon as a northern star. However, many women may continue IVF treatment when the probability of a successful pregnancy is ‘zero’. This paper argues that the implication of a policy of unlimited rounds of IVF from the perspective of the ‘culture of perseverance’ that develops in IVF clinics has not yet been fully assessed. A systematic long term assessment of the health and welfare of women after IVF in Israel - especially after prolonged treatment with IVF - is necessary. In a global context, an evidence-based policy on ART may improve both the allocation of resources and the duty of care, not only in Israel, but also in other countries.
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