Hopeful Vic parents call for IVF to resume

The Victorian government is being urged to reconsider a "blanket ban" on IVF treatment, with some desperate would-be parents worried it will cost them the chance to have a baby.

Non-urgent elective surgeries were suspended in public and private hospitals in Victoria on January 6 to cope with rising COVID-related admissions.

As part of the change, IVF clinics were contacted and asked to cancel appointments.

IVF patient Laura Mundy has been diagnosed with a condition that means she can only conceive within the next 12 months and was left devastated when informed the "blanket ban" could last for three months.

"Every month that I don't cycle is one of my very few last chances of actually having a biological child," the 39-year-old told reporters on Tuesday.

"Every month is absolutely vital for myself and tens of thousands of other women in Victoria that are absolutely devastated by what's happening at the moment."

In a viral video posted to social media on Sunday, a woman named Melanie pleaded with Premier Daniel Andrews and Heath Minister Martin Foley to consult with experts and women about the pause.

An online petition to reinstate fertility and IVF treatments has also garnered almost 50,000 signatures.

Ms Mundy also wants the state government and health authorities to bring back IVF in the interest of fairness for her and other women.

"Being infertile in not a choice that we make. We can't have children without this service," she said.

"We work and work to make enough money to be able to afford this and it's important we get access."

Opposition leader Matthew Guy said the cancellation of IVF was a disgrace and laid blame at the feet of the premier.

"Women's ovulation doesn't wait for Daniel Andrews to make a decision. It's cruel and heartless," he said, rejecting the suggestion his comments were "insensitive".

Acting Health Minister James Merlino said the government was working to resume IVF services "as quickly as possible", despite declaring a code brown emergency in hospitals on Tuesday.

"I've got some dear friends currently going through IVF or have been through IVF. So I know what an emotional toll it is, what a financial toll it is," he said.

"This is in many cases a last opportunity to create a family for themselves so I am absolutely empathetic. The moment we can boost or return to services for IVF patients we will absolutely do so."