Breaking Down the True Cost of IVF Step by Step

ByDavidStephens

When planning for IVF, it’s common to ask “how much does IVF cost in the UK?” — but few realise how many different components make up the total bill. In this blog, we break down each element of the IVF process step by step so you can understand exactly what you’re paying for — and what costs to expect at each stage.

1. Initial Consultation and Fertility Testing Before any treatment begins, you’ll need an initial consultation with a fertility specialist.

  • Consultation: £200 – £350
  • Hormone blood tests and AMH test: £150 – £300
  • Semen analysis: £100 – £200

✅ Running Total: ~£450 – £850

2. IVF Cycle Preparation Once you’re cleared for treatment, your clinic will prepare you for a stimulation cycle.

  • Nurse-led appointment and cycle planning: £100 – £200
  • Baseline scan: often included, but some charge £100 – £150

✅ Running Total: ~£600 – £1,200

3. Medication for Ovarian Stimulation This is one of the most expensive components.

  • Gonal-F, Menopur or similar: £1,000 – £2,000 (depends on dose and cycle length)
  • Trigger shot (e.g., Ovitrelle): £50 – £100
  • Progesterone post-transfer: £200 – £300

✅ Running Total: ~£1,850 – £3,600

4. Egg Collection and Fertilisation

  • Egg retrieval (includes sedation): £1,000 – £1,500
  • Lab fertilisation & embryo culture: £1,200 – £1,500

✅ Running Total: ~£4,050 – £6,600

5. Embryo Transfer & Add-Ons

  • Embryo transfer procedure: Often included
  • Embryo freezing (if applicable): £400 – £600
  • Storage (first year): £300 – £500
  • Optional add-ons: e.g., ICSI (£1,000+), PGT-A genetic testing (£2,000+)

✅ Running Total (with basic add-ons): ~£5,000 – £9,000

6. Aftercare and Follow-Ups

  • Pregnancy test consultation / bloodwork: £100 – £200
  • Follow-up consultation (if unsuccessful): £150 – £250

✅ Final Total Estimate: ~£5,250 – £9,500 per cycle

Real-Life Scenario: Emma and Liam spent £6,800 on their first IVF cycle in Bristol. By skipping genetic testing and sourcing medication through a third-party pharmacy, they saved over £1,000. Understanding each cost in advance helped them plan with confidence.

There is no single answer to “how much does IVF cost in the UK” — but breaking it down stage by stage allows you to plan effectively. Always ask your clinic for an itemised cost breakdown and look for bundled packages to reduce unexpected expenses.

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