The High-Cost of Fertility Treatments
Infertility is an extremely common problem. In fact, it’s estimated that approximately 12% of women between the ages of 15 and 44 have trouble conceiving and women over 35 have less than a 15% chance of natural pregnancy. Fortunately, most couples experiencing fertility issues can still conceive by way of certain drugs and treatments specifically designed for this purpose. Unfortunately, infertility treatments don’t come cheap.
In vitro fertilization, or IVF, is one of many infertility treatments available to couples, however, it can be prohibitively expensive because multiple steps are involved in the process. Aspiring mothers first need to take drugs to stimulate hyperovulation, which causes the ovaries to release multiple eggs, and then undergo a procedure to retrieve these eggs.
Once a suitable egg has been retrieved, the next step in the process is to obtain sperm, either fresh or frozen. The sperm and egg are then introduced in a lab and implanted in the woman’s uterus. One IVF cycle costs approximately $12,000 USD, however, you need to bear in mind that IVF isn’t always successful. In fact. many women need multiple attempts before they’re able to successfully conceive through IVF.
Couples may also opt to use a gestational surrogate. A gestational surrogate, sometimes referred to as a birth mother, is a woman who carries a fetus to term for another woman. The cost of a gestational surrogate in the United States is approximately $35,000, but varies significantly. The US happens to have the highest surrogacy rates in the world, whereas similar services are far less expensive in Europe, and most inexpensive in certain third world countries, although health and safety standards may not be at the same level as they are in Europe or America.
How to Cover the High Cost of Infertility Treatments
The price is what deters a lot of people from pursuing infertility treatments. However, there are a few things people can do to help better cover the expense. These include the following:
Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships and grants aren’t strictly for people who are attending school. Sometimes women who would like to have a baby are also eligible for financial awards. One organization that provides financial assistance to women looking to start a family is the Tiniqua Q. Cade Foundation. Most importantly, this foundation specifically provides funding to mothers who must undergo IVF treatments in order to conceive.
It is important to note that scholarships and grants are typically available on a first come,first served basis. Many people find they need to apply multiple times before they are deemed eligible for assistance. The National Infertility Association is another organization that provides funds to people who need help paying for fertility treatments. Keep in mind that in order to qualify for a scholarship or grant, you will likely need to produce a fertility plan.
Request More Affordable Medication
Much of what makes IVF so expensive is the cost of the medications patients are required to take. You should make a point of letting the fertility clinic know about your financial situation. For example, they can provide you with medication that is more affordable. Many clinics are prepared to pass along the fertility drugs turned in by old clients who didn’t need or use all of the medication they were originally prescribed.
Be Selective With The Treatments You Choose
Just because you’re experiencing fertility issues doesn’t necessarily mean you have to undergo IVF in order to get pregnant. There are less expensive options available. The type of treatment you need is determined by your health and age. For instance,if you’re healthy and under the age of 40 you may be eligible for intrauterine fertilization. Intrauterine insemination involves artificially placing sperm in the uterine cavity or cervix.
If nothing else, it’s a whole lot cheaper than IVF. In fact, depending on a few factors such as location, in some parts of the US it’s entirely possible to undergo an intrauterine insemination procedure for under $900.
Crowdfunding
No one ever likes to have to ask for money, however, sometimes it’s your best option. Crowdfunding involves asking people for donations to help you realize a specific goal. However, it’s not always that simple. There’s a lot more to crowdfunding than simply putting up a Gofundme page. You need to have good marketing skills and, of course, a compelling story to serve as the focus of your campaign.
Borrow the Money
Because IVF is so expensive, most people need to borrow money in order to pursue it. There are several ways for you to raise this amount of money. For instance, you can take out a home equity loan or borrow from your retirement funds. And should you be so lucky to have one with a reasonable interest rate and have exhausted all your other options, you could always charge it to your credit card.
No matter which of the above you consider, you have to fully be ready and committed with the decision you’ll be making. Weigh in all the things that worry you, like can you afford it for the long run or for as long as it takes because the procedures will definitely not be short.
