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There are millions of couples who learn they have infertility issues, but unfortunately not all can afford the infertility cost. Whether it's the overall stress of a personal crisis or the financial side of the dilemma, both can take their toll on the relationship. Even though there is a tough road to haul, it doesn't mean this dream is unattainable.
However, it is important to understand the money that will be spent on infertility specialists. This is even harder in a time of great economic hardship like the current economy. One thing to be aware of is the emotional aspect. Experts believe this can make it extremely difficult to reach sound decisions about money. The best starting point would be to examine the actual costs related to diagnosis and treatment, and then find ways to manage the costs. Hopefully by better understanding the issue, some costs can be minimized.
Typical Infertility Cost Ranges
There is a huge spectrum when dealing with the money involved. This can range from a couple hundred dollars for an herbal supplement and test kit, to thousands upon thousands of dollars for major medical procedures. Plus you have to consider the repeated tests which are paid for over and over again. A great example of this is tests for hormones or sperm activity ($100-$200 for each visit).
The ultrasound alone is a couple hundred dollars, but this is if you have the test done at a doctor's office. If they are performed in a clinic or hospital, the cost is more. It is also possible that more invasive tests will surface such as biopsies and diagnostic laparoscopy. These run anywhere from $400 to $2,000, but sometimes less. Keep in mind, a portion of the tests may occur more than once.
When a couple starts to figure in the medication the prices rise quickly. Some of them are less than $100, but can reach several hundred dollars in the blink of an eye. Clomid, for example, is one source which can cost in the neighborhood of $750 per cycle. If male infertility is being treated then the cost can run around $2,000 to $3,000. However the more advanced ART procedures reach thousands of dollars per monthly cycle. Once consultations and other items are added, you are looking at an average minimum cost of $16,000 to $20,000. This is without figuring in the cost of the pregnancy if everything is successful.
Infertility Cost Strategies
These huge amounts can seriously damage a family financially. While there is infertility insurance available, we recommend reading the policy carefully. A Healthcare Flexible Spending Account (FSA) might allow you to declare the costs as deductible expenses, but this should be brought up with your tax professional. Even though infertility insurance can be the answer, it's best to get it before realizing there is an infertility issue.
Infertility is stressful enough without dealing with another financial burden. It is recommended that a couple avoid the temptation of using credit cards, which means the overall cost will be more thanks to high interest rates. Covering costs may mean selling the boat, downsizing houses, or even turning in your vehicle for a less expensive model. Others might get a loan against their home. Anyone in this situation simply needs to be realistic about the overall potential of these infertility costs.
The best strategy is to find out what the issue is first. Look for a reliable diagnosis. This could mean the best option would be to go to a very experienced infertility specialist as soon as possible. Trying to figure it out alone could be costly in the end. Plus, finding help from a specialist early can increase the probability of success. As a bonus, the overall cost may be reduced as well.
One thing to understand is there are times when the cause of infertility is unknown. It is possible that more time is needed for a proper diagnosis. Then again if you are on a tight budget, it might be wise to look into natural treatments, monitoring temperatures, and just being patient. Obviously you want to have success sooner than later, but taking it one day at a time is the best option.
There are also stressful concerns when the overall infertility cost comes into play. If most couples can prepare financially for potential challenges down the road, it will certainly make things a lot easier. In the end it is important to have a good understanding of the whole subject before visiting the doctor.
Michael Key has written extensively for 30 years on a wide variety of technical issues. For more information on infertility cost look for his new book "Secrets of Infertility Relief" available only at InfertilityRelief.com.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
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