Fertility treatment financing: how to plan and budget for IVF and beyond
Thinking about the cost of fertility treatment can feel overwhelming at first. Whether you’re considering in vitro fertilisation (IVF), exploring egg freezing or preparing for multiple treatment cycles, thinking ahead financially can help you feel more in control.
By planning ahead and understanding your options, you can focus your energy on what matters most – giving yourself the strongest possible chance of building the family you dream of.
Understanding the costs involved
Every person or couple going through fertility treatment has different needs. This means that the costs of treatment can vary greatly. At BCRM, a single cycle of IVF starts from £3,999.
Some people may also need intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), frozen embryo transfer (FET), or to consider using donor sperm or eggs. All of these factors can increase the total cost of fertility treatment.
While we hope each treatment cycle brings success, it’s not uncommon to need more than one attempt. Planning for this early on can help ease pressure later and give you space to focus on your wellbeing.
We’ll always explain your options and associated costs clearly at your consultation. Our pricing is transparent, and we’re always here to talk things through. We want you to feel fully informed, supported and confident in every decision you make along the way.
Building a fertility budget that works for you
Once you have a clearer understanding of your recommended treatment, creating a realistic budget is a practical next step. Start by listing potential costs, including consultations, medications, laboratory fees and any storage or follow-up treatments you may need.
It can also help to include practical things like travel, overnight stays if you’re coming from further afield and any time you may need to take away from work. Thinking about these early on can ease stress later.
Many people find it helpful to open a dedicated savings account for their treatment, contributing little by little in a way that feels manageable and empowering. Others prefer to set a monthly savings goal or speak with a financial advisor. The most important thing is to create a plan that feels manageable and does not place unnecessary pressure on other areas of your life.
Reviewing your current spending can help you identify ways to reduce non-essential costs. Even modest savings each month can build up and bring you closer to your goal.
Exploring NHS funding
In some cases, fertility treatment may be available through the NHS. However, access to NHS-funded IVF varies depending on your local integrated care board (the part of the NHS that plans and manages NHS services in your local area).
Eligibility for NHS funding also depends on factors like your age, body mass index (BMI), how long you’ve been trying to conceive and whether you or your partner already have children – criteria that can sometimes feel frustrating or out of your control.
Your GP can explain what is available in your area. If you’re eligible, NHS funding can reduce the financial burden and provide support through your first cycle. If not, private treatment remains a flexible and accessible option with care tailored to your specific circumstances.
Looking at finance options and payment plans
Paying for fertility treatment in full is not always possible. Fortunately, there are financing options that can help. Some people choose to spread the cost through a payment plan with their fertility clinic.
If you’re thinking about borrowing to support your treatment, take time to explore your options and make sure you feel comfortable with any repayments.
There are also specialist fertility finance providers who offer packages designed for people undergoing treatment. These often include fixed repayment terms and may be more affordable than general loans.
At BCRM, we’re happy to discuss these options with you and help you find the right balance between financial planning and clinical care.
Considering multi-cycle packages
Some fertility clinics (like BCRM) offer multi-cycle IVF packages that allow access to several treatment cycles at a reduced overall cost. This approach can be helpful if you already know that more than one attempt may be necessary.
Certain clinics also provide refund schemes, where you may receive a partial refund if treatment is not successful after a specific number of attempts. These schemes aren’t available everywhere and often come with age or health requirements, but if you’re curious about what might be possible, our team is here to explore the options with you, without pressure or obligation.
Budgeting for ongoing support and follow-up care
Your fertility journey continues beyond the treatment cycle. The support you might need along the way, both emotional and practical, can carry its own costs to consider. These might include embryo storage fees, early reassurance scans if you need peace of mind in the early stages of pregnancy, or supportive services to help you cope emotionally throughout.
At BCRM, we offer a wide range of supportive services that many people find helpful. These include holistic therapies such as guided counselling. You can add these to your budget as needed, offering emotional reassurance throughout your experience.
Embryo storage renewals, typically charged annually, should also be part of your long-term financial plan if you freeze embryos for future use.
Making the most of the support available
You’re never alone in this process. Alongside our dedicated clinical team, your loved ones can offer invaluable support, encouragement and comfort at every step. Being open about your financial goals and limitations can help you make decisions together and ease the pressure.
Staying organised with a financial journal or a savings app can help you track fertility-related expenses. Tracking your spending and planning ahead can also help reduce unexpected costs and give you a greater sense of control during what can already feel like an emotional time.
Begin your fertility treatment with BCRM
We understand that managing the financial side of fertility treatment can feel overwhelming, especially when so much is already on your mind. But with a clear plan and a supportive team, it becomes far more manageable.
At BCRM, we help you navigate each stage of your fertility treatment plan with care and clarity. From your first consultation to the final stages of treatment, we’ll ensure you feel informed and empowered.
If you’re thinking about starting fertility treatment, speak with our team. We’ll help you explore your options, understand your costs and take the next step with confidence.
Book your appointment today and let us help you get prepared for your fertility journey.