How Much Does IVF Cost If You Need a Donor Egg or Sperm?
Using donor eggs or donor sperm in your IVF cycle can increase the cost — but for many couples, it offers the best or only path to parenthood. This blog explores the typical costs associated with donor-assisted IVF in the UK and what factors influence the price.
What Is Donor-Assisted IVF?
Donor-assisted IVF involves using either donor sperm or donor eggs (or both) to create embryos. These are then transferred to the intended parent’s uterus or a gestational carrier.
- Donor sperm is often used in cases of male infertility, same-sex female couples, or single women.
- Donor eggs are used when the recipient cannot produce viable eggs — common in older women, premature ovarian failure, or genetic conditions.
Cost of IVF with Donor Sperm
- Donor sperm sample: £800 – £1,300 (per vial)
- IVF with donor sperm: £5,500 – £8,000 per cycle
- Additional costs: Screening, storage, and shipping fees
Total cost: Typically £6,500 to £9,000+
Cost of IVF with Donor Eggs
- UK donor eggs (fresh): £4,000 – £5,500
- Frozen donor eggs: £3,000 – £4,500
- IVF treatment itself: £4,000 – £6,000
Total cost: £7,000 to £12,000+ depending on fresh vs frozen, donor availability, and package deals.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Screening and legal fees: Clinics handle screening, but legal advice may be needed for donor agreements.
- Medication: Adds another £1,000 – £2,000 per cycle.
- Counselling: Required at many clinics for donor treatment; costs £50–£100 per session.
Using Known vs Anonymous Donors
- Known donor: May involve extra legal steps but offers transparency and future contact.
- Anonymous donor: More common via clinics; donor identity typically not shared until child reaches 18.
Success Rates IVF using donor eggs tends to have higher success rates, especially in older women, as donor eggs are typically from younger donors with proven fertility.
Real-Life Example: Nina and Sarah, a same-sex couple, used donor sperm for their IVF cycle. After budgeting around £7,000, including medication and counselling, their first cycle resulted in a successful pregnancy. Choosing frozen sperm reduced wait times and costs.
Donor-assisted IVF comes with higher costs, but for many, it also brings higher chances of success and a realistic path to parenthood. Be sure to understand all associated fees, clinic policies, and legal implications before proceeding.
