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Managing the Journey: Fertility Costs and Finding Financial Support

Treatment options for fertility are known to be quite expensive. While there are some states that mandate infertility coverage, even the uncovered costs can still add up. And if you aren’t lucky enough to live in one of those states, navigating fertility costs can seem impossible.

We understand how emotionally and financially taxing it can be to struggle with infertility when all you want to do is start a family. That’s why we’ve put together this helpful guide.

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about infertility treatment costs, including tips to help you financially plan for IVF and other treatment options. 

Understanding the Costs Associated With Infertility Treatments

There are a few different options for those seeking help with infertility. One of the most commonly known treatment options is in vitro fertilization (IVF). While IVF can be effective, it is one of the most expensive treatments for infertility. 

Currently, the average cost of IVF in the U.S. is around $12,400 but can reach as high as $20,000 to $30,000 depending on individual circumstances and out-of-pocket expenses. Factors that can affect IVF costs can include medications used, the location of the fertility center, consultation costs, various testing and procedures involved, lab fees, anesthesia, and the cost of donor eggs and sperm. 

Some other treatment options and their average associated costs are:

• Injectable hormones: $1500 to $3500 per month;
• Sperm donation: $500 per vial of sperm;
• Egg donation: $24,000 per cycle;
• Frozen embryo transfers: $2,500;
• Egg preservation: $10,000;
• Oral medications: Anywhere from $5 to $130;
• Ovulation induction: $3000 to $5500;
• Intrauterine insemination: $800 to $1500, not including medications.

Again, these are all averages, and costs can vary from one situation to the next. Many unexpected out-of-pocket expenses can contribute to the overall cost, including things like travel and gas expenses when traveling to and from appointments. This is why it’s important to fully understand all associated costs so you can budget and plan accordingly. 

Financial Planning Tips For IVF and Other Infertility Treatments

Once you have a good idea of how much you can expect to pay for infertility treatments, you can start crafting a financial plan. Understandably, many of these costs may seem out of reach, but there are many options out there to help you make your fertility and family planning journey more affordable. 

1. Check Your Insurance

First, always check with your insurance. Depending on the state in which you live, your health plan may provide coverage for certain treatment options, like IVF. The exact coverage amount can vary from state to state and depending on your specific insurance policy. As of 2024, 21 states and the District of Columbia have regulations that require insurance companies to cover some fertility treatments. 

2. Shop Around and Compare Prices

Never settle on the first estimate you receive. Prices can sometimes vary significantly depending on where you choose to have your treatments done. So make sure you shop around and compare prices for all the different clinics in your area and even those that you might have to travel a little farther to reach. Not only do different clinics offer different prices, but some might also offer payment plans and discounts. 

3. Budget and Save

If you know ahead of time that you will be paying for expensive treatments, you can start budgeting to save money wherever possible. Set up a specific savings account just for your infertility treatment costs and put money into it whenever you can. You can do this by setting up monthly budgeting goals and reducing spending on other things that you don’t really need. 

4. Be Mindful of Medication Choices

Medication costs associated with infertility treatments can add up quickly if you aren’t careful, so pay attention. You can shop around at different pharmacies and request less expensive brands. There are also medication discount programs you can look into and make sure your medications are not being over-ordered. 

5. Charge Treatments to a Credit Card

Credit cards are another way you can finance your treatments, just make sure you choose the right ones. The best way to maximize savings is to look for 0% APR cards that put off interest charges for a period of time. 

6. Apply for Grants

There are many organizations, such as non-profit groups that provide infertility grants. Most of these grants are specifically for IVF treatments but some will also help you pay for other expenses, such as the cost of donor embryos and donor sperm. Keep in mind, the criteria for these grants are often very particular, so make sure you review the requirements before applying. 

7. Consider a Loan

Various loan options also exist to help individuals pay for treatments. IVF loans, for example,  are installment loans that can help you pay for various expenses including lab work, medications, and procedures. You can also look into credit union loans or personal loans. 

Stock loans are another option. If you already invest in stocks, you can use this as an asset to secure a loan. You can do this by pledging your stock shares as a secure asset to get a loan instead of tying the loans to other personal assets, such as your property or your car. 

Wrapping Up

If you are concerned about affording infertility treatments, don’t be afraid to ask a specialist about all the expenses and costs involved. Fertility clinics and providers should be willing to sit down with you and review all of the direct and associated costs.