Embryo Donation: Save Money On IVF Treatments

Fertility treatments like IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) can be life-changing, but they can also come with a hefty price tag. In the UK, while the NHS provides some support, many couples still face significant out-of-pocket costs for private treatments. But what if there were little-known ways to drastically reduce the financial burden of IVF? Well, there are! In this blog, we’ll reveal 5 surprising hacks that could save you thousands on your fertility journey.

1. Check if You Qualify for Discounted IVF through Clinical Trials

You’ve probably heard of clinical trials in relation to new medications or treatments, but did you know that fertility clinics often run trials for new IVF techniques, medications, or technologies? Participants in these trials can access IVF treatments at a fraction of the cost—sometimes even for free!

While enrolling in a clinical trial might sound daunting, it can be an excellent way to receive cutting-edge fertility treatments under expert supervision, all while saving thousands. Plus, trials are often run by some of the best fertility specialists in the country, so you'll still be in safe hands.

How to take advantage: Check websites like the UK Clinical Trials Gateway or directly ask fertility clinics about any ongoing trials they might be recruiting for. Keep in mind that certain conditions apply, and you might have to undergo additional tests or meet specific criteria, but the savings can be well worth it.

2. Use Your Employer’s Health Cash Plan for Fertility Treatment

Many UK employers offer health cash plans or private medical insurance that can cover a range of medical expenses—including fertility treatments. You might not even know that your employer offers fertility benefits as part of their health package.

For example, some health cash plans will cover consultations, tests, or even part of the IVF cycle itself, depending on the level of coverage you’ve signed up for. The best part? These health plans are often much more affordable than full private health insurance, and the coverage for fertility treatments might surprise you.

How to take advantage: Check with your HR department to see if your employer offers fertility benefits as part of a health cash plan. If you already have one, ask them to clarify exactly what’s covered. Don’t forget to look into any health insurance plans you may already have through your partner’s employer, as some policies may include IVF or diagnostic tests related to fertility.

3. Take Advantage of Shared IVF Cycles (AKA Shared Risk IVF)

Shared IVF cycles are a relatively unknown but increasingly popular option to help reduce the cost of IVF. This model allows you to share an IVF cycle with another patient, cutting the cost of the treatment by up to 50%.

Here’s how it works: in a shared cycle, your eggs are collected and fertilised with your partner’s sperm (or donor sperm), and if successful, the embryos are split between you and another couple. This reduces the cost per couple, and if IVF fails, many clinics will allow you to transfer to the next cycle at a discounted rate.

How to take advantage:Shared IVF is typically available through private clinics. It’s especially beneficial for couples who have a low ovarian reserve, as it allows for a more cost-effective approach to treatment. Check with your fertility clinic to see if they offer shared IVF or “shared risk” packages.

4. Consider a Fertility Loan

Yes, you read that right—fertility loans. Many financial institutions and even some fertility clinics offer fertility-specific loans designed to help you spread the cost of your treatment. Some fertility loan schemes come with low-interest rates, flexible repayment options, or even interest-free periods for the first few months.

Fertility loans are ideal if you want to pursue treatments immediately but need some financial assistance without sacrificing the quality of care you receive.

How to take advantage:Check with your fertility clinic to see if they have partnerships with financial institutions offering fertility loans. Or, consider specialist fertility loan providers like Loan.co.uk or Lendwise, which offer low-interest loans specifically for IVF treatment.

5. Explore 'Egg Sharing' or 'Sperm Donation' Programs

Egg sharing and sperm donation programs can be an excellent way to access discounted fertility treatment, but many people don’t realise they are eligible to participate.

Egg sharing involves a woman donating some of her eggs to another woman in exchange for a discounted IVF cycle. The recipient of the donated eggs undergoes IVF using the donor’s eggs, while the egg donor benefits from a reduced cost for their own IVF treatment. Similarly, sperm donation programs can offer discounted IVF or IUI (intrauterine insemination) treatments if you choose to donate sperm as part of the process.

These programs can offer substantial savings (as much as 50% off treatment costs), and many clinics across the UK run them. Plus, donors are usually well-compensated for their time and effort.

How to take advantage: If you’re open to the idea, inquire with your fertility clinic about egg sharing or sperm donation programs. Eligibility criteria vary, but these options could be a win-win for both parties. You’ll help someone else build their family while making IVF more affordable for yourself.

Final Thoughts

Navigating IVF and fertility treatments in the UK can be an overwhelming experience, especially when considering the costs involved. However, these 5 little-known hacks can help you save thousands on your fertility journey. From clinical trials to fertility loans and shared cycles, there are ways to get the care you need without breaking the bank.

Before jumping into treatment, always do your research, ask about available discounts or programs, and make sure you understand the options available to you. Sometimes, the right strategy can turn an overwhelming financial burden into something much more manageable.

Have you tried any of these strategies or know of other tips for saving on IVF? Share your experience in the comments below!