Infertility affects millions of people worldwide, leading many to seek fertility treatments abroad. This comprehensive guide answers your questions about infertility prevalence, fertility tourism, popular destinations, treatment options, costs, and considerations for different demographics.
How many people worldwide are affected by infertility?
Infertility is a global health issue impacting a significant portion of the population. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 6 couples worldwide experience some form of infertility.
Global Infertility Statistics:
- Estimated affected individuals: Over 186 million couples worldwide.
- Prevalence: Approximately 10-15% of couples of reproductive age experience infertility.
- Age factors: Infertility rates tend to increase with age, especially after age 35.
Regional Variations:
- Developed countries: Higher reported rates due to better diagnosis and awareness.
- Developing countries: Underreporting is common, but infertility remains a significant concern.
Factors contributing to infertility include:
- Medical conditions (PCOS, endometriosis, low sperm count)
- Lifestyle factors (obesity, smoking, alcohol)
- Environmental influences
- Age
Is fertility treatment free in any countries in the world?
Fertility treatments are generally costly, but some countries offer subsidized or free fertility care:
Countries Offering Free or Subsidized Fertility Treatments:
- Denmark: Public health system covers certain fertility treatments, including IVF, for residents.
- Sweden: Offers publicly funded fertility treatments, with some limitations.
- United Kingdom: The National Health Service (NHS) provides free fertility treatment under specific criteria.
- Belgium & France: Some public health programs cover part of fertility treatments.
- Singapore: Provides subsidized fertility services through government initiatives.
- India: Certain public hospitals offer low-cost or free treatments, especially for low-income individuals.
Note: Eligibility criteria and treatment coverage vary widely, and treatments may be limited in scope and number.
Why do people travel for fertility treatment?
People choose to travel abroad for fertility treatments due to:
- Cost savings: Treatments can be significantly cheaper in certain countries.
- Availability of advanced options: Some countries offer cutting-edge techniques not accessible elsewhere.
- Waiting times: Shorter waitlists.
- Legal and regulatory factors: Restrictions or bans in their home country.
- Privacy and discretion: Access to private clinics with confidential services.
- Legal considerations: For same-sex couples, single individuals, or donors, some countries offer more progressive laws.
What treatments are popular for those that travel?
The most common fertility treatments sought abroad include:
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF):
- The most popular assisted reproductive technology (ART).
- Suitable for various infertility causes.
- Egg Donation:
- Used when ovarian reserve is low or for women over 40.
- Countries like Spain and the Czech Republic are popular for egg donation.
- Surrogacy:
- For individuals unable to carry a pregnancy.
- Countries like Ukraine, Georgia, and Mexico are popular surrogacy destinations.
- Sperm Donation:
- For men with low sperm count or genetic concerns.
- Accessible in many countries with donor banks.
- Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT):
- Ensures healthy embryos, reducing miscarriage risk.
How many people travel each year for fertility treatments?
While precise global figures are challenging to obtain, estimates suggest:
- Approximately 10,000 to 20,000 individuals or couples travel abroad annually specifically for fertility treatments.
- The growth of fertility tourism has been increasing at a rate of about 15-20% per year.
Factors influencing these numbers:
- Rising infertility rates.
- Cost-effective options abroad.
- Legal and regulatory variations.
What are the popular countries that people travel to?
Top Fertility Tourism Destinations:
| Country | Reasons for popularity | Popular treatments |
| India | Cost-effective treatments, experienced clinics | Low-cost IVF, egg donation |
| Georgia | Legal surrogacy, affordability | Surrogacy, egg donation |
| Spain | Established clinics, high success rates | Egg donation, legal protections |
| Czech Republic | High-quality clinics, legal framework | Egg donation, IVF success rates |
| United States | Advanced technology, variety of options | Surrogacy, egg donation |
| Thailand | Medical tourism hub of Asia | Surrogacy |
Are there any country restrictions around treatments?
Yes, some countries have restrictions:
- Germany: Strict laws prohibit commercial surrogacy and egg donation..
- France: Surrogacy is illegal.
- Italy: Surrogacy is banned.
- Spain: Surrogacy is illegal, but egg donation is permitted.
- Japan: Limited access to donor gametes and surrogacy.
Note: Laws are constantly evolving; always verify current legal status before planning travel.
What should you consider if you want to travel for treatment?
Legal and Ethical Considerations:
- Laws regarding surrogacy, egg donation, and sperm donation vary.
- Ensure clinic compliance with local regulations.
Clinic Reputation:
- Choose accredited clinics with proven success rates.
- Read reviews and ask for patient testimonials.
Medical Compatibility:
- Confirm the clinic’s expertise with your specific condition.
Language Barriers:
- Consider clinics offering services in your language.
Cultural and Ethical Factors:
- Be aware of cultural attitudes towards fertility treatments.
What costs should you factor in?
Treatment Costs:
- IVF cycles, egg/sperm donation, surrogacy fees.
Additional Expenses:
- Travel and accommodation.
- Medical tests and consultations.
- Medications.
- Legal and administrative fees.
- Post-treatment care.
Estimated Costs:
Average worldwide costs (in USD):
IVF (per cycle): $4,000 – $15,000
Egg donation: Add an extra $5,000 – $20,000
Surrogacy: $50,000 – $200,000
How long do you have to stay away from home?
- Typical duration: 2-4 weeks.
- Initial consultation: 1-2 days.
- Treatment cycle: Usually 2-3 weeks, depending on protocol.
- Additional time: For travel, recovery, and follow-up.
Plan for possible delays or additional procedures.
I am over 40 – What countries can I travel to for treatment?
Women over 40 often face reduced success rates; however, some countries offer advanced options:
- Spain and Greece: High success rates for women over 40.
- Czech Republic and Ukraine: Good options with experienced clinics.
- United States: Cutting-edge treatments, but costly.
- India and Thailand: Affordable options with clinics specializing in older women.
Note: Success rates decline with age; consult with specialists to set realistic expectations.
I am a single woman – What countries can I travel to for treatment?
- Spain and Greece: Support single women seeking IVF and egg donation.
- Czech Republic and Ukraine: Welcoming to single women for various treatments.
- Mexico: Some clinics accept single women.
- Australia & UK: Legal for single women to access fertility services.
Legal considerations: Laws vary; always verify local regulations.
I am a single man – What countries can I travel to for treatment?
- Sperm banks in many countries allow single men to access donor sperm.
- Surrogacy: Limited or illegal in many countries.
- U.S., Ukraine, Georgia: Surrogacy options are more accessible for single men.
Important: Surrogacy laws are complex; legal counsel is recommended.
We are a same-sex couple – What countries can I travel to for treatment?
For Lesbian Couples:
- Spain, Greece, UK, Canada: Supportive legal frameworks.
- Czech Republic and Ukraine: Egg donation and IVF options.
For Gay Male Couples:
- U.S., Ukraine, Georgia, Mexico: Surrogacy-friendly countries.
- Canada: Legal surrogacy for gay couples.
Legal and ethical considerations: Laws are evolving; consult local regulations.
I have a BMI of 35 – What countries can I travel to for treatment?
- Most clinics require BMI below 30-35 for fertility treatments.
- Weight management: Consider losing weight before treatment to improve success rates.
- Countries with flexible protocols: Some clinics in India, Mexico, and Thailand offer treatment for higher BMI patients, but success may vary.
- Specialist clinics: Always consult with clinics that accommodate higher BMI patients.
More Information
The International Fertility Company (IFC) has been advising individuals and couples who are considering travelling for fertility treatment for over a decade. It offers free initial text/video/mobile consultations which can be arranged via andrew@theifc.world and dedicated closed Facebook groups for those seeking treatments in Spain, Greece and the Czech Republic.
