How To Afford IVF And If Financing Can Help

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is probably the most well-known form of assisted reproductive technology (ART) that treats infertility. The procedure has the highest success rates out of all the ART methods and has become commonplace. First launched in 1978, Americans have been using IVF since 1981. Roughly 1.9% of all babies born in the US are from ART methods, including IVF. However, the procedure isn’t cheap, and figuring out how to afford a process that can take multiple cycles is important.

How much does IVF cost?

Keep in mind that the price structure for medical procedures in the US isn't uniform. Each facility can set independent prices, which makes providing a hard figure difficult. However, research suggests that the average cost of a single IVF cycle can exceed most budgets. Often, the cost includes medications, genetic testing, and actual procedures such as egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo transfer. IVF patients should be aware that most IVF treatment requires at least 2 cycles to successfully conceive and have a baby.

Factors that influence price

Most people think of IVF as a singular process. However, IVF can be modified with add-on features such as assisted hatching, which may increase the price. Likewise, choosing donor eggs or sperm or picking a posh fertility clinic can also raise the final invoice.

Does insurance cover IVF?

The short answer is possibly, depending on the circumstances. In theory, IVF is an elective procedure. However, some scenarios exist where fertility treatments would be viewed as essential. For example, a woman who had cancer at an early age may need IVF because conceiving naturally is no longer possible secondary to chemotherapy. Likewise, some states view fertility as an essential human right and require that insurance providers cover not just IVF but adjacent activities like egg freezing. Additionally, reproductive rights organizations keep a list of infertility insurance laws by state.

Is financial aid available?

Depending on an individual's circumstances, financial aid can be a way to afford IVF. Specifically, grants and scholarships do exist. However, just like when applying for college scholarships, multiple factors can influence eligibility. For example, marital status, current income, and location may all dictate which options are available.

Other ways to save

For people with health insurance, consider putting money aside into a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA). The pretax dollars can be used towards fertility treatments. Likewise, some fertility treatments may be tax deductible. If out-of-pocket medical expenses exceed 7.5% of the adjusted gross income for a year, those fees can be written off. Finally, look for clinics offering deals or discounts. IVF is expensive so even the most prestigious clinic may still offer a discount for bundling cycles or offer a refund on services not needed. Ultimately, fertility treatments are expensive, but solutions exist to make the process more affordable.