Get Started

Intended Parents

Embryo Transfer Costs [Planning for Fertility Journey Expenses]

KEY POINTS:

If you’re exploring in vitro fertilization (IVF) or surrogacy, understanding embryo transfer costs is crucial to planning your next steps.

The exact cost of an embryo transfer depends on a variety of factors. Understanding these nuances can help you make informed choices that fit your needs and budget.

In this article, we’ll go over how much an embryo transfer costs, which factors influence the price and what insurance may cover.

If you’d like more personalized guidance about affording IVF and surrogacy, fill out our online form today. We want to help you fulfill your dream of becoming a parent.

How Much Does an Embryo Transfer Cost?

In the U.S., the average cost of a single IVF cycle is around $21,600. One key factor that impacts the price is whether you choose a frozen or fresh embryo transfer. Each option comes with its own considerations — here’s what to know about both:

Frozen Embryo Transfer

A frozen embryo transfer involves thawing previously frozen embryos and transferring them to your or a surrogate’s uterus. This method is popular because it offers more flexibility and allows embryos to be transferred in a carefully timed cycle.

Here’s a closer look at common costs associated with a frozen embryo transfer:

  • Base fee (monitoring, egg retrieval, embryo creation and transfer): $9,000 to $14,000
  • Consultation and diagnostic testing: $250 to $500
  • Medications: $3,000 to $7,000
  • Cyropreservation: $1,000 to $2,000
  • Storage fees: $500 to $1,000
  • Intracytoplasmic sperm injection: $1,000 to $2,000
  • Genetic testing: $4,500 to $5,500
  • Mock embryo transfer: $240 to $500
  • Donor sperm (if needed): $1,000 to $1,500

If you’re considering surrogacy, you will be responsible for covering the embryo transfer costs for your surrogate. Some insurance policies do cover this procedure. Find out more about insurance for surrogacy.

Fresh Embryos Transfer

A fresh embryo transfer involves transferring an embryo soon after it’s created. This option is often less expensive because you avoid certain costs associated with freezing and storage. If you choose a fresh transfer, here are some fees you won’t need to worry about:

  • Cryopreservation

    You won’t need to freeze the embryos if you opt for a fresh transfer.

  • Storage Fees

    Since the embryos are transferred immediately, there’s no need to store them.

  • Genetic Testing

    While genetic testing is optional, fresh transfers usually don't allow enough time for results.

    While fresh transfers may be faster and less expensive, they aren’t always the best option. Frozen transfers offer more flexibility if you need time to prepare your body or delay the transfer for other reasons.

    What Factors Impact the Cost of an Embryo Transfer?

    The total cost for an embryo transfer depends on several factors, and understanding them can help you plan more effectively for your IVF or surrogacy journey. Here are the three most significant factors to keep in mind:

    • Clinic location

      Embryo transfer costs can vary by region. Fertility clinics in larger cities or high-demand areas may charge more for the same services.

    • Health insurance

      Coverage for fertility treatments varies widely by insurance plan and state. Some plans may cover part of the transfer costs, while others may not offer any fertility benefits.

    • Additional medical needs

      If you plan to use additional services — intracytoplasmic sperm injection, donor sperm, genetic testing, etc. — these will increase the overall cost. It’s important to budget for these possibilities early on.

      How Much Does It Cost for an Embryo Transfer With Insurance?

      If your health insurance offers fertility benefits, it might cover some costs of an embryo transfer. However, navigating insurance coverage can be complicated. Policies can vary significantly from one provider to another and even within plans from the same company.

      For instance, your insurance plan may cover essential services such as diagnostic testing and initial consultations, but it may exclude medications to stimulate ovulation and prepare your body for the transfer. This means you could face significant out-of-pocket costs even if you have insurance.

      Take the time to review your policy carefully. Look for sections that detail fertility treatments, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your insurance provider for clarification. They can help you navigate the specifics of your coverage and inform you about any necessary pre-approvals or documentation required to maximize your benefits.

      Navigating Fertility Costs

      By understanding the costs of embryo transfers, you can make informed decisions that align with your family-building goals. This can help you manage your budget more effectively.

      You don’t have to navigate the financial side of your fertility journey alone. If you’re not sure how you’ll afford your IVF or surrogacy journey, reach out to us today. We can provide additional information regarding specific expenses and walk you through potential financing options.

      Male and Female couple smiling with surrogate mother
      Is Surrogacy Right For Me?

      Take our 2 minute quiz to find out

      Get Started