Fertility treatment can be an emotional and physically demanding process, but the financial implications can also be significant, especially in the UK where the cost of treatment can be high.
Here are nine financial implications of fertility treatment in the UK:
- The cost of fertility treatment in the UK can vary greatly depending on the type of treatment and where you live. For example, in vitro fertilization (IVF) can cost anywhere from £5,000 to £8,000 per cycle. Other treatments, such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or fertility drugs, may be less expensive, but can still add up over time.
- Insurance coverage for fertility treatment in the UK can be limited or non-existent. While some insurance plans may cover some of the costs of fertility treatment, many do not. This means that you may have to pay for treatment out-of-pocket, which can be a significant financial burden.
- Fertility treatment may require you to take time off work for appointments and procedures. This can lead to lost wages and reduced income, which can have a negative impact on your budget.
- Fertility treatment can be physically and emotionally draining, which may lead to an increase in medical expenses. For example, you may need to pay for additional visits to your doctor or for medications to help manage any side effects of treatment.
- Fertility treatment may require you to travel for appointments or procedures. This can be costly, especially if you need to travel long distances or stay overnight in a hotel.
- If you are using an overseas gestational carrier (also known as a surrogate) to carry a pregnancy, you may need to pay for her medical expenses and other costs associated with the pregnancy.
- If you are using donor eggs or sperm, you may need to pay more for treatment as well.
- If you are successful in getting pregnant through fertility treatment, you may need to pay for additional prenatal care. Often, you should continue all medication until 12 weeks gestation.
- If you decide to pursue adoption, you may need to undergo financial checks.
Where to Find Support
It’s important to carefully consider the financial implications of fertility treatment before you begin. You may want to speak with a financial planner or a coach specialising in fertility to help you plan for the costs of treatment and explore your options for paying for it.
Research Financing Options
There are also resources available to help offset the costs of fertility treatment in the UK. Some employers offer fertility benefits as part of their health insurance plans, and there are organizations that provide grants or loans to help cover the costs of treatment. Additionally, some fertility clinics offer financing options to help patients pay for treatment.
While fertility treatment can be a costly and stressful process, it can also be a life-changing experience. By understanding the financial implications of treatment and exploring your options for paying for it, you can be better prepared to manage the costs and make informed decisions about your fertility journey in the UK.