cost of IVF, IVF Cost

What Is the Cheapest Way to Have IVF in the UK?

For couples facing the high cost of IVF, it’s natural to look for ways to reduce expenses without compromising on care. In this blog, we explore the most affordable paths to IVF in the UK — including funding support, clinic selection, and strategic treatment planning — to help you access treatment at the lowest possible cost.

The cheapest way to have IVF in the UK is through NHS-funded treatment. This is free at the point of use but only available to those who meet strict eligibility criteria, which vary by region. Most Integrated Care Boards offer one funded cycle to women under 40 with no existing children, though access can depend on BMI, smoking status and duration of trying to conceive. If you qualify, NHS IVF eliminates costs for consultations, scans, treatment, medication, and aftercare.

If NHS IVF isn’t available, the next best way to save is choosing a clinic in a region with lower pricing. Clinics outside of London and the South East tend to be £1,000–£3,000 cheaper per cycle. Cities like Birmingham, Leeds, and Glasgow offer reputable care at a significantly reduced rate compared to private clinics in central London.

Consider natural or minimal stimulation IVF cycles if suitable for your fertility profile. These approaches use fewer medications and result in lower overall costs — around £2,500 to £4,000 per cycle. While success rates are slightly lower, some couples find this a gentler and more cost-effective starting point.

Another low-cost option is shared risk or multi-cycle packages. These bundles offer two to three IVF cycles at a reduced total price, often with built-in discounts of 10–30%. Clinics may also offer fixed-price packages that include medication and scans, making budgeting easier.

Other ways to keep costs low include:

  • Buying medications from independent pharmacies
  • Opting out of costly add-ons unless clinically necessary
  • Asking about discounted consultations or promotional offers

Couples can also explore fertility charities or grants. Organisations such as Fertility Network UK or Access Fertility sometimes offer funding schemes or competitions to cover part of the cost. Though competitive, these can make a huge difference.

Lastly, some consider travelling abroad. Clinics in Europe — especially Spain, Greece, and the Czech Republic — offer IVF for £2,500 to £4,000 per cycle, even with travel expenses included. Just ensure any overseas clinic meets high-quality standards and is fully regulated.

Real-life example: Joe and Lisa were quoted £7,000 for IVF in London. Instead, they travelled to Prague and paid £3,900 for a cycle including medication and accommodation. They used a clinic recommended by the HFEA and saved nearly 45%.

The cheapest way to have IVF in the UK depends on your eligibility for NHS treatment and your willingness to consider alternative strategies. From clinic choice to medication sourcing and treatment planning, there are ways to make IVF more affordable without compromising on your chances of success.

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