Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is an incredible resource for people who need a little help growing their families. Each type of ART comes at a different cost and involves different hormones, procedures, and success rates.
IVF
IVF (in vitro fertilization) is probably the most common and likely the most effective form of ART, but it’s also the most expensive, as the average cycle costs about $15,000. If you have additional needs like genetic testing, sperm thawing, or other services, the cost of IVF will increase. Some people pay more than $25,000 for a cycle of IVF, and the success rate is about 40%.
IUI
IUI (intrauterine insemination) costs between $300-$800, with the cost on the higher end if you need donor sperm. IUI is attractive to some people because of the lower cost, and many people try IUI in addition to other fertility treatments, which will increase the cost and the chances of success. Without treatment, the success rates of IUI are between 10-20%, but additional fertility medications or injections can increase your chances.
ICI
ICI (intracervical insemination) costs about $250. Like IUI, costs increase with additional fertility treatments or the purchase of donor sperm. It’s that ICI be performed by a healthcare professional because there is a risk of infection, so it’s best not to pursue ICI at home. Some evidence shows that ICI isn’t as effective as IUI, but success depends on many different factors.
IVI
IVI (intravaginal insemination) is safe to do at home. If you’re using sperm from a partner or friend, IVI is free outside of the cost of the syringe you would use to inject the sperm into the vagina. If not, you would just pay for the syringe and the sperm. The success rates of IVI are similar to the rates of traditional intercouse, which vary based on age.
GIFT and ZIFT
Sources
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“Demystifying IUI, ICI, IVI and IVF.” Seattle Sperm Bank. Seattle Sperm Bank. 2015. Web.
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“In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Related Treatment Options.” Sutter Health Palo Alto Medical Foundation. Palo Alto Medical Foundation. 2015. Web.
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“Discover the latest IUI success rates.” Attain Fertility. IntegraMed America, Inc. 2016. Web.
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Mayo Clinic Staff. “Intrauterine insemination (IUI).” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic. June 21, 2016. Web.
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“IVF costs at the Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago.” Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago. Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago. 2016. Web.
- “The Costs of Infertility Treatment.” Resolve. Resolve: The National Infertility Association. 2006. Web.