What to Look for in IVF Packages: Price vs Success Rate
When evaluating IVF treatment options, it’s easy to be drawn to low prices — especially when clinics advertise “complete packages.” But not all IVF deals are equal, and the cheapest option may not offer the best chance of success. In this blog, we unpack how to compare IVF packages with both cost and success in mind.
IVF packages typically bundle various services into a single upfront fee. A standard package may include consultations, scans, egg collection, fertilisation, embryo transfer, and basic aftercare. Some packages also cover medication, embryo freezing or follow-up care — others don’t.
Start by clarifying what’s included. Ask the clinic for a breakdown of:
- Medication costs
- Monitoring scans and blood tests
- Laboratory procedures (e.g., ICSI, PGT-A)
- Sedation or anaesthesia fees
- Freezing and storage of embryos
- Counselling or emotional support
- Follow-up consultation if treatment is unsuccessful
Once you understand what’s covered, assess whether the price represents good value compared to similar providers. If one clinic offers a package at £5,000 including medication and freezing, while another quotes £4,500 excluding these, the more expensive option may still be better value.
Now consider success rates. A clinic’s live birth rate per cycle is a more useful metric than its pregnancy rate. Ask for clinic-specific data broken down by age group. A higher price may reflect better lab conditions, more experienced staff, or tailored protocols — all of which can impact outcomes.
Also check how many embryos are typically transferred and what the average number of embryos created per cycle is. A higher fertilisation or blastocyst rate may mean better success chances from fewer cycles, even if the initial cost is higher.
Beware of hidden fees. Some packages advertise a low headline price but include costly add-ons later. For example, time-lapse imaging or embryo glue might be offered at extra cost, despite being considered helpful by the clinic.
Real-life example: Helen chose a £5,800 IVF package that included medication, two embryo transfers, and storage for 12 months. Her friend Lucy chose a £4,200 base package and paid £2,000 more in add-ons — for nearly identical care.
Ask whether success is incentivised. Some clinics offer refund-based plans or money-back guarantees, where you pay more upfront but get partial or full refunds if treatment is unsuccessful. These can be cost-effective in the long term.
Final thoughts: Don’t just look at the price tag — look at the full picture. A good IVF package should balance affordability with personalised care, proven success rates and transparent pricing. Choosing the right clinic means investing not just in treatment, but in your best chance at a successful outcome.
