Until now, the WHO’s definition of infertility—which it classed as a disability—has been the failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sex.

But the new standard suggests that the inability to find a suitable sexual partner could be considered an equal disability, The Daily Telegraph reports.

The WHO sets global health standards and its ruling is likely to place pressure on the NHS to change its policy on who can access IVF treatment.

Legal experts said the new definition, which will be sent out to every health minister next year, may force a law change, allowing the introduction of commercial surrogacy.