The Times They Are Changing
Fertility problems are rising in men and women. Because people marry later, face more stress, and live with growing pollution, many couples now seek help. Recently, the WHO lowered the normal limits for sperm count and motility. Although some couples improve with lifestyle changes, others need IVF. For example, couples with very low sperm counts, azoospermia (no sperm in semen), blocked tubes, or repeated treatment failures usually require a test-tube baby.
What Is the Real Cost of a Test-Tube Baby?
- Clinics charge about ₹40,000–₹50,000 for the basic IVF procedure.
- Ovarian stimulation injections cost ₹40,000 to ₹2,00,000, depending on age, ovarian reserve, and protocol.
- Tests cost ₹5,000–₹10,000.
So the total cost usually ranges from ₹80,000 to ₹2,50,000.
Can IVF Costs Be Reduced?
Yes.
Clinics now use soft-stimulation protocols that require fewer injections, which lowers medicine costs.
With these methods, a full cycle — including medicines — can cost as low as ₹80,000.
These protocols suit many patients and work well in experienced hands.
A scopy is not always required; a good sonography may be enough.
Why Do Doctors Quote Higher IVF Charges?
1. Clinic Location
Clinics in big cities pay higher rent and operational costs.
2. Outsourcing
Some doctors start IVF cycles but rely on other centres for scans, egg retrievals, or embryology.
Some batch multiple patients and call a team for just a few days.
Because soft-stimulation cannot be used in batches, costs increase.
Calling visiting embryologists or endoscopic surgeons also adds expenses.
3. Large Hospitals or Chains
Centres with multiple owners, large staff, and marketing teams have higher running costs.
A single-owner clinic can offer more flexible pricing.
4. Possible Complications
PCOS patients may develop hyperstimulation.
Their embryos are usually frozen and transferred later, which increases costs.
Freezing many embryos also adds to the bill.
Does Age Affect Cost?
Yes.
Women in their late 30s and 40s often have fewer eggs and more abnormal eggs.
They require higher doses of expensive medicines. Soft stimulation with embryo freezing and accumulation can give better results at similar cost. Sometimes using an egg donor is more cost-effective.
The Uterine Lining Matters
If the uterine lining is thin, doctors may add injections or medicines to improve it.
These treatments raise the cost of the cycle.
The Good News
Competition
More IVF centres, better media, and more pharma companies have lowered prices.
Many centres now offer budget IVF options.
More Experience
Experienced doctors and embryologists can achieve pregnancies with fewer eggs.
This reduces the cost of injections and overall treatment.
Is a Second Cycle Better?
Some studies show higher pregnancy rates on a second attempt. Still, you might pay twice with no success. Therefore, plan carefully.
Last Words
Think well. Choose your doctor wisely. Be informed.
But don’t spoil your chances by bargaining or dictating the treatment plan.
Trust matters.
This article was first published on the Mumbai Gynaec website. Moreover, it has been reproduced on this page with permission from the original author and owner,
Dr. Swati Allahbadia, so that readers can access updated and useful medical information.