What’s the Cheapest Way to Do IVF in the UK?
The cost of IVF can be a huge barrier — but are there ways to make it more affordable without compromising success? In this blog, we explore the cheapest ways to do IVF in the UK, based on your circumstances, clinic options, and treatment approach.
Start with the NHS The cheapest way to access IVF is through the NHS, where treatment may be fully or partially funded.
- Availability depends on your local ICB (Integrated Care Board) criteria
- Eligibility often considers age, BMI, relationship status, and previous children
- If you qualify, you may receive 1–3 funded cycles
If eligible, NHS IVF can reduce your cost to £0–£1,500, covering only some medication or extra tests.
Consider natural or mild IVF Private IVF doesn’t have to mean full stimulation protocols. Clinics increasingly offer lower-cost options:
- Natural IVF: No stimulation drugs — £2,500 to £4,000
- Mild IVF: Minimal drugs — £3,000 to £5,000
- Lower success per cycle but less medication and monitoring
Use frozen embryos from earlier cycles A full IVF cycle costs £5,000–£9,500. A frozen embryo transfer (FET), by comparison, costs £1,200–£2,000. If you create and store embryos from a previous cycle, future transfers are far more affordable.
Shop around — clinic costs vary
- Some clinics offer all-inclusive packages
- Regional clinics are usually cheaper than those in London
- Always ask for itemised quotes to avoid hidden extras
Choose evidence-based treatment only Avoid paying for unnecessary add-ons unless they’re medically recommended. Common extras like embryo glue or time-lapse monitoring may offer minimal benefits for high costs.
Explore multi-cycle or refund programmes Some clinics offer savings for multiple cycles paid up front:
- 2-cycle deals: £8,000 – £11,000
- 3-cycle packages: £12,000 – £15,000
- Refund programmes: Cost more upfront but offer a percentage back if no live birth
Join clinical trials Some research studies cover the cost of IVF (or parts of it) for eligible patients. Look at:
- NHS clinical trials
- University or hospital-led research programmes
- Fertility charities and networks
Real-life example: Jess, age 34, was ineligible for NHS IVF but chose mild IVF at a regional clinic for £3,750. She conceived in one cycle, using no add-ons and a generic medication protocol.
Final thoughts: While IVF will never be “cheap,” there are many ways to reduce the cost without reducing your chances. The cheapest path will depend on your age, diagnosis, and willingness to explore NHS, mild stimulation, or multi-cycle packages.
