Cost and Legality of IVF
For couples, single women, and men facing infertility issues, doctors may recommend in vitro fertilization (IVF). Despite the prevalence of IVF, the procedure is not regulated by law or permitted in all countries. The cost of the procedure also varies depending on the country and clinic.
What is included in the cost of IVF?
Many couples facing infertility are interested in the cost of in vitro fertilization.
The procedure involves several stages, and some procedures may be paid for separately. The cost of IVF may include the following procedures:
- Preliminary consultation with a specialist and examination. The doctor determines the causes of infertility, individual characteristics of the body, and helps select the appropriate method of artificial fertilization.
- Ovulation stimulation. Hormonal therapy is administered to increase the number of follicles. The process is monitored through ultrasound imaging.
- Egg retrieval. Oocyte retrieval is performed under light anesthesia. The procedure does not harm the female body and is painless. If a woman cannot provide her own eggs, donor eggs can be used. The donor’s profile does not include a photo or name, but it provides a detailed description of her appearance, ethnic origin, and health condition. The prospective mother can choose a healthy donor who resembles her.
- Sperm collection. If the male cells of the potential father do not meet the required quality, frozen donor material can be used.
- In vitro fertilization of retrieved oocytes. The fertilized cells are stored in an incubator that simulates the conditions of the uterine cavity for 3-5 days. Specialists regularly monitor the embryos.
- Embryo transfer to the woman’s uterus. An elastic catheter is used for the procedure. The transfer process is painless and does not require anesthesia. After embryo transfer, hormonal medications are prescribed, which the woman takes for several weeks to maintain the pregnancy.
In some clinics, the IVF procedure may or may not include embryo transfer, the use of donor male or female gametes, or other additional services. The fee may increase if repeated fertilization is necessary in case of unsuccessful attempts.
How much does IVF cost in different countries?
The cost of IVF varies depending on the country where the procedure is performed and the clinic.
Cost of IVF in Europe (Ukraine, Czech Republic, Germany, France, Spain, Georgia)
Ukraine is the most affordable country for IVF in terms of cost. On average, the cost of the artificial fertilization procedure starts from 3,500€. Clients receive a high level of medical service, and IVF is fully legal in Ukraine.
Each clinic has its own IVF program, which may or may not include medications, donor eggs or sperm, and other services. Ask the clinic for a list of services included in the price and those that are paid for separately.
Cost of IVF in other European countries:
Czech Republic
The price of IVF is calculated individually and depends on the range of services. A full cycle of IVF can cost between 2,000 and 4,500 euros. The use of donor eggs or sperm is not included in the price. If they are required, the final cost can reach 6,000 euros.
Germany
The cost of IVF starts from 4,200€, with an average program participation fee of $5,200€. Most clinics do not offer package deals.
France
The average cost of IVF in French reproductive health clinics is around 6,000 euros.
Spain
The participation fee in an IVF program starts from 5,200€ with a minimal package of services. On average, IVF in Spain can cost from 7,000 euros, with a maximum price of 10,000 to 11,000 euros.
Georgia
The average cost in Georgia is around 4,000€. Despite the lower cost of the procedure compared to other countries, the medical services provided are of a high standard.
Considering the different prices, everyone can find the optimal option for themselves.
Cost of IVF in America (USA, Canada)
In the USA and Canada, IVF is the most expensive due to the overall higher cost of medical services.
USA
In the USA, the procedure can cost between 11,000€ and 18,000€, and additional diagnostic tests need to be paid for separately (average of 650€).
Canada
In Canada, the price ranges from 9,000€ to 14,000€. This includes one cycle of IVF, which involves:
- preparation for IVF;
- hormonal stimulation;
- egg retrieval;
- sperm collection;
- laboratory fertilization and embryo transfer.
If the first attempt is unsuccessful, a repeat procedure is performed, which incurs additional costs.
Cost of IVF in Asia (Turkey, India)
For IVF treatment, many residents of Asian countries choose Turkey or India, where the treatment is legally permitted.
Turkey
In Turkey, the cost of IVF ranges from 1,900€ to 7,000€.
India
In India, the average cost of IVF is around 6,500€. The price range across clinics is usually within a few hundred dollars.
Legality of IVF
Unlike surrogacy, which is prohibited by law in many countries, IVF is permitted in most states.
Usually, not only married couples but also single women can avail themselves of this service, provided that donor sperm is used. Eligible individuals are adult women of reproductive age who are facing infertility issues.
Italy is the only European country where the law prohibits IVF. This restriction is associated with disapproval from the Vatican.
On the platform, you can find a suitable IVF clinic and compare the cost of embryo transfer in clinics across different countries, as well as evaluate the medical conditions.