The CDC reports that one in five married women in the U.S. between the ages of 15 to 49 without previous births grapple with infertility – after a year of trying to become pregnant. For such individuals, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a viable option.
However, IVF is extremely expensive, and the costs typically vary according to the fertility clinic, geographic location, and other factors. Generally, an IVF cycle can cost upwards of $15,000. Plus, insurance coverage for infertility treatment varies significantly from state to state.
Sher Fertility Solutions speaks about the real cost of ivf treatment – check out the linked resource for more information. All the same, are the costs worth it? Well, it depends on who you ask and your financial circumstances.
If you can afford IVF, it could be a great option. But for most people, the cost can be prohibitive, especially given that a woman may need more than one IVF cycle before getting pregnant. Let’s examine some factors that could make IVF worth it, including the actual cost of the procedure.
Why IVF Could Be Worth It
When many opt for IVF treatment, they treat it as a financial investment, and rightly so – it costs thousands of dollars. However, it’s more prudent to think of it as a way to realize your dream of becoming a parent.
IVF can be the answer for couples who cannot conceive naturally. These include individuals with existing medical conditions, such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), blocked fallopian tubes, or a family history of genetic disorders. Likewise, in the case of same-sex couples and single parents, IVF is often their only option.
Globally, over nine million babies have been born with the help of IVF and other assistive fertility treatments since 1978. And although the global success rate is about 35%, the efficacy of IVF varies based on numerous factors, as outlined below:
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Age – a woman’s age is one of the most significant determinants of IVF success. Generally, younger women in their twenties have a higher chance of conceiving with IVF than those in their late thirties and early forties – a 2019 report by the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) shows.
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Ovarian stimulation protocol – this uses fertility drugs to increase egg production, which can enhance your chances of a successful IVF cycle. The protocol a clinic uses largely determines the success of a cycle. By extension, a clinic’s experience can significantly impact IVF outcomes.
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Pregnancy history– if a woman has a history of successful natural conception, they have better odds of a positive pregnancy through IVF than those who haven’t.
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Lifestyle – stress, obesity, nutrition, smoking, and drinking can affect fertility. Before and during an IVF cycle, the couple should maintain a healthy lifestyle as this could vastly improve the chances of success. Otherwise, they could shell out more money, on repeated attempts.
The Real Cost of IVF
For most patients, IVF costs are not limited to the procedure. It also includes associated costs such as fertility drugs and other medications, laboratory tests, anesthetics, genetic testing, and embryo storage or cryopreservation fees.
While some of these procedures are mandatory, others are optional. For instance, if a couple opts to include genetic testing, the cost of the IVF increases.
Some clinics quote a base price and add costs based on the extra procedures, while others include the full cost of all services in a single package. Thus, it doesn’t hurt to confirm the package details and ask for a breakdown of all services doesn’t hurt.
Finances aside, the emotional cost of IVF can also be very high. Moreover, the process may not yield a successful pregnancy even after multiple attempts. This can be extremely draining for a couple intending to fulfill their dream. Plus, the emotional toll can impact the success of subsequent cycles.
Ways to Reduce Overall Cost
Some insurers relieve their clients’ burden by covering the cost of IVF. However, not all policies cover fertility treatments or associated costs. If you’re planning to pay out of pocket, it’s advisable to consider various options to reduce your expenses. Here’re a few ways to reduce the financial stress of IVF:
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Look for discounts – many fertility clinics offer discounts or payment plans that can lower your overall cost. Others provide financing options if you’d rather pay in installments. Active or retired military personnel, police officers, firefighters, and service members also receive discounts at some clinics.
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Consider alternative fertility treatments – you can explore low-cost fertility treatments such as minimal stimulation IVF (Mini IVF), which costs about $6,000 (exclusions apply). Other options include donor egg IVF and frozen embryo transfer.
Although IVF is an expensive process, you don’t have to incur the total cost of the procedure. And by looking at the big picture, couples can more accurately weigh the financial and emotional costs of IVF. That way, they can determine whether to spring for it.
