There is a significant increase in the number of people opting for in vitro fertilization (IVF) services because of many factors, including late marriages, growing infertility rates, increased pregnancy age, rising disposable income, and greater awareness. In this article, we will be discussing in detail how to plan your finances for this emotional journey so that you don’t end up burning a hole in your pocket. So, let’s dive deep and understand the IVF procedure.

What are the main steps in the IVF procedure?

Understanding the main stages of the process helps you to have a clear idea of what to expect during fertility treatment and the factors that impact the cost of IVF.

Stimulation of Egg Production

Typically, your IVF journey starts with the stimulation of the ovaries for egg production. It involves the administration of medications and monitoring progress to ensure optimal production of eggs.

Egg Retrieval

Once the eggs mature, you will have to undergo a minor ultrasound-guided surgical procedure under local anesthesia to retrieve them from the ovaries.

Egg Fertilization in the Lab

The eggs collected from the ovaries are then fertilized with sperm in a laboratory. In this phase, an experienced embryologist oversees the fertilization process and the development of the embryo.

Embryo Transfer

This is the last IVF procedure wherein viable embryos are transferred into your uterus after appropriately preparing it.

What factors influence IVF costs?

You need to know the factors that influence the cost of IVF treatment so that you can plan your finances well in advance. The major factors are:

Age and your history of fertility

Age is an important factor because women’s fertility declines as the age increases. More extensive interventions may be required for older women.

IVF clinic’s reputation and its location

Well-established clinics that boast of having high success rates often charge higher fees. Furthermore, clinics in urban locations tend to charge more because of higher overhead costs.

Specialized procedures and diagnostic tests

Specialized procedures needed in your specific case and diagnostic tests that are required to be done such as genetic testing, additional screenings, and procedures to be followed to overcome fertility challenges, apart from the standard protocol, can also contribute to a significant increase in overall costs.

Number of IVF cycles needed

The number of cycles you have to go through to achieve IVF success cannot be predicted. This is because can vary from one couple to another. While some may become successful in the first attempt itself, some others require multiple cycles.

What are the different financing options available for IVF treatment?

Some insurers offer insurance coverage for some infertility treatments, including IVF. They may cover the entire IVF treatment cost, a cycle, hormonal assessment cost, medical testing charges, or OT expenses. The coverage provided often varies from insurer to insurer and, therefore, you must seek ascertain the coverage before purchasing the policy. While there is no such thing as an IVF loan, you can avail of a personal loan from most banks at a reasonable interest rate to finance your fertility treatment. Besides, you can pay back the bank in easy EMIs.

How do I budget for my IVF treatment?

Couples who cannot become parents naturally pin all their hopes on IVF treatment for having a baby. They are aware that success is not guaranteed but are prepared to take the plunge. Therefore, it is important that they stay financially sound, especially when they have to go through multiple cycles. Here are a few budgeting tips to keep in mind when planning your IVF treatment:

Prepare a monthly budget

Before starting your IVF journey, you must get a cost estimate from the clinic where you are planning to undergo the treatment. Determine how much it is going to cost you on a monthly basis. Prepare a budget based on your monthly income and how much you have to keep apart for your living expenses and IVF treatment.

Put away the cost of IVF treatment

If you can set aside the money needed for the IVF treatment, you can avoid relying on any other source of funding. Also, consider establishing an automatic transfer of a specified amount from your monthly income into a separate account as a good way of saving for IVF treatment.

Avoid unnecessary spending

Decide your priorities and avoid spending on not-so-important items or impulsive purchases. It is a good idea to practice self-discipline so that you are in a better position to meet the expenses related to IVF treatment.

Set up a baby fund

You may encounter many unforeseen situations in IVF treatment. Setting aside a baby fund helps you deal with such situations in a better way. Add all additional money you receive by way of tax returns, increments, dividends, etc., to your baby fund.

Getting your IVF treatment done at a fertility clinic with a higher success rate such as Aanvi Fertility and Women’s Centre in Tilaknagar, Hyderabad, increases the chances of your dream coming true faster. Dr. Swarna who heads the clinic is a gynaecologist as well as an IVF specialist.