Couples who want to have a child, but have had trouble in the past, may turn to procedures or surgical interventions–but in vitro fertilization costs can often scare off potential couples.
Here is a quick look at what is entailed with in vitro fertilization (IVF) and how in vitro fertilization costs can be anticipated in your future plans to add a child to your family.
What is In Vitro Fertilization?
The IVF procedure involves combining sperm with an egg, in a petrie dish. The fertilized embryos are then placed in the woman’s uterus, where it will hopefully implant and grow normally. (Usually, more than one embryo is placed, to increase the chance of attachment and pregnancy.)
How Much Does in Vitro Fertilization Cost?
The in vitro fertilization costs will range from around $10,000 to $15,000. Much of the cost will depend on how many cycles or placements of the embryo are needed, to achieve a successful pregnancy.
Women must take hormones prior to the first cycle, to prepare the uterus for implantation. (So, there are additional fees for medications and office visits or consults.)
A couple may also consider time lost from work, for the procedure and clinic visits, as an added expense.
What are the Risks of IVF?
Some of the in vitro fertilization risks include multiple births and symptoms related to taking the preparation hormones, prior to the procedure. Another risk is the increased chance of having a low birth weight baby. There is also the increased risk of birth defects.
Will Insurance Pay for IVF?
The cost of IVF may be covered in some instances. HMOs and PPOs may pay for a portion of the procedure. (This is actually required in some states.)
Many employer-paid benefits programs will not automatically offer such coverage. If a couple lives in a state where partial coverage is mandatory, they can still have part of the costs covered. (Be sure to research your own state’s regulations.)
Another way to go is to have infertility coverage; to purchase it as an add-on to an existing policy or employer provided benefits. There are many employer plans that will add this coverage, for a small additional cost.
It is best to add this type of coverage, before infertility becomes an issue. This will help ensure the greatest likelihood of payment, should a problem of fertility be discovered later.
How Do I Find IVF Clinics?
Finding a physician who deals with fertility issues is not that difficult. There are usually specialists in every city, depending on size and location.
Though looking through the yellow pages is one way to find such a doctor, recommendations are usually best. Ask co-workers, only if you trust them. Neighbors who have conceived through IVF may also make recommendations on suitable physicians.
Make sure the medical professional is certified and licensed. It is not unreasonable to ask a physician for his credentials and ask many other questions, before agreeing to treatment at one of the many in vitro fertilization clinics.
Good luck with your search.
