What’s Included in a Typical IVF Package – And What’s Not
When you’re researching IVF clinics, you’ll see lots of “starting from” prices. But what do those numbers actually include? IVF treatment involves many components — and not all of them are part of the base package. In this blog, we break down what’s usually included in a typical IVF package in the UK, and what you might have to pay extra for.
What’s typically included in an IVF package:
- Initial consultation (sometimes separate, but often bundled)
- Ultrasound scans for monitoring follicles
- Blood tests to check hormone levels
- Egg collection (retrieval)
- Fertilisation (standard IVF)
- Embryo culture (up to blastocyst stage)
- Embryo transfer (fresh cycle)
This is what most clinics refer to when they advertise a “cycle” of IVF.
What’s often not included:
- Medication: Adds £1,000 – £2,500 per cycle
- ICSI (sperm injection): £1,000 – £1,500
- Embryo freezing and storage: £500 – £1,000+ per year
- Frozen embryo transfer (FET): £1,200 – £2,000
- Pre-treatment tests (AMH, semen analysis): £200 – £500
- Add-ons (embryo glue, PGT-A, time-lapse imaging): £500 – £3,500 depending on option
- Counselling: Sometimes included, sometimes £50–£100 per session
Beware of vague package descriptions Some clinics list prices as “from £3,500” but leave out critical elements like medication or transfer. Always ask for an itemised quote that includes:
- Medication cost (based on your protocol)
- Costs for freezing and storage (even if you don’t plan to use it)
- Whether ICSI or advanced lab techniques are included if needed
Ask about extras upfront:
- Do you charge for embryo freezing even if not used?
- Is counselling included or extra?
- What happens if I need to cancel or delay a cycle?
Real-life example: Louise booked an IVF package for £4,950 — but after adding medication (£1,800), ICSI (£1,200), and embryo freezing (£800), her actual cost for the cycle was £8,750. A clear quote from the start would have helped her plan better.
Understanding what’s included in a typical IVF package — and what’s not — is essential for financial planning. Don’t be afraid to ask clinics for full transparency before committing.
