When struggling with fertility, many would-be parents will seek help. From assisted conception like IVF to medications and surgical procedures, there are several alternative ways to attempt conception. In recent years we have seen an increase in fertility tourism with more and more people traveling abroad for these treatments rather than staying in the UK. But how does this work? Fertility tourism may be more accessible than we initially thought. Although there are a number of factors to consider before making any decision.
What is fertility tourism?
Fertility tourism, also known as reproductive tourism, is a type of medical initiative that requires patients to travel to another country to receive fertility treatment. According to the NHS, about 1 in 7 couples may have difficulty conceiving. However, there has been a decline in NHS funding for IVF fertility treatment in recent years, leading many to turn to fertility tourism.
Is it cheaper to get fertility treatment abroad?
The price is often significantly lower elsewhere when comparing private medical treatment in the UK to other European countries. In Greece and Spain, for example, you can expect to pay between £2,000 and £4,000 per cycle. Although it seems expensive, it is actually quite affordable compared to many private care clinics in the UK. In addition, several IVF clinics abroad will offer package deals that guarantee there will be no additional costs. This is a real benefit for those looking to manage a budget while looking for fertility treatment, as it ensures they won’t face significant hidden fees.
Why choose to go abroad for fertility treatment?
The main reason why people choose to go abroad for fertility treatments is due to cost. Despite having to pay for flights to access treatment, many European locations are still cheaper than UK fertility options, especially if overseas treatments have an all-inclusive rate.
However, cost is not the only factor to consider. Many people seeking treatment have found that access to NHS options is highly dependent on location. With long waiting lists and sometimes a shortage of egg donors, opting for IVF fertility treatment on the NHS has proven problematic of late. So, if you’re looking for fertility treatment options, be sure to factor in cost, wait times, and accessibility, as you’ll be surprised at what you find in terms of your best fertility options.
What are the best countries for fertility treatment?
There are numerous countries throughout Europe that offer fertility treatments for those coming abroad. Due to ease of travel and affordable prices, the following are the most popular destination countries chosen by patients according to experts:
- Spain
- czech republic
- Swiss
- Denmark
- Belgium
These countries offer state-of-the-art clinics, along with fewer legal frameworks for patients to navigate. Although it is important to remember that your fertility experience can vary from one clinic to another depending on their facilities, prices, accessibility, types of treatment and operations.
Also, it’s worth noting that religious beliefs and history can largely determine how a country can approach fertility care. Therefore, it is recommended to speak with an expert or advisor about the fertility options available and which country and/or clinic to choose before agreeing to any fertility treatment abroad.
Is fertility tourism right for me?
Despite offering a number of benefits, fertility tourism may not work for everyone. Whether or not you should try fertility tourism will be based on your budget, availability and personal circumstances. If you are in doubt about going abroad, it might be worth having a round of fertility treatment with the NHS first. However, this may require a long waiting period, so your options are highly dependent on your own time scales. Fertility tourism is not one-size-fits-all, but it can provide a lifeline for many people who are struggling to conceive naturally.
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