How to Compare IVF Clinic Prices Without Getting Misled
How to Compare IVF Clinic Prices Without Getting Misled
When shopping for IVF treatment, many people begin by comparing clinic prices. But not all pricing is transparent — and comparing figures without knowing what’s included can lead to confusion and costly surprises. In this blog, we explain how to evaluate IVF clinic prices fairly so you can make an informed decision.
Step 1: Look beyond the headline cost Some clinics advertise low prices like “IVF from £3,500.” This often covers only the basics. Check if the quote includes:
- Consultation and diagnostics
- Medication
- Blood tests and monitoring
- Egg collection and embryo transfer
- Freezing or embryo storage
Many clinics separate these into different charges, so make sure you’re comparing like for like.
Step 2: Ask for an itemised IVF cost breakdown. Request a full quote that lists all expected costs for a standard cycle. A good quote should include:
- IVF procedure cost
- Medication cost range
- Additional procedures (e.g. ICSI, assisted hatching)
- Embryo freezing and storage
- Costs for frozen embryo transfer (FET)
Step 3: Be cautious of vague “add-ons” Add-ons are optional treatments that may improve success — or may not. Examples include:
- Time-lapse embryo imaging
- Immunology testing
- Endometrial scratch
- PGT-A genetic testing
These can add £500–£3,000 or more. Only agree to them if there’s a clear medical reason and supporting evidence.
Step 4: Check medication costs separately Medication is often billed separately. For some patients, medication can double the price of IVF.
- Mild cycles: £800–£1,200
- Standard cycles: £1,500–£2,500
- Older women or low ovarian reserve: up to ÂŁ3,000
Step 5: Factor in success rates A cheaper clinic with lower success rates may cost more in the long run if you need multiple cycles. Look for clinics with strong data on:
- Birth rates per embryo transfer
- Success for your age group
- Success for your diagnosis (e.g. male factor, PCOS)
Step 6: Read online reviews and patient forums Cost is important, but so is experience. Check reviews on:
- Treatment transparency
- Patient support
- Communication during and after treatment
Real-life example: Sarah received quotes from two clinics — one for £4,500 and another for £6,200. But the cheaper clinic excluded medication, ICSI, and embryo freezing. The more expensive quote turned out to be more complete — and actually cheaper once all services were added up.
Comparing IVF clinics by cost is smart — but only if you know what you’re actually getting. Always ask for full breakdowns, avoid hidden fees, and weigh up success rates and care quality alongside price.
