How Much Does IVF Cost in the UK? Does NHS fund it?

If you’re considering IVF, one of the biggest questions is: “How much will this cost me?” In the UK, treatment can be expensive privately, and NHS funding isn’t guaranteed for everyone. That’s why more people are exploring IVF abroad—to save money without compromising on quality.

NHS vs Private IVF in the UK

• NHS IVF:

  • Free for eligible patients

  • Strict criteria vary depending on where you live (age, BMI, previous children, etc.)

  • Long waiting lists in many areas

    
    

• Private IVF in the UK:

  • Costs range from £5,000 – £8,000 per cycle, excluding add-ons

  • Some clinics offer packages or discounts, but prices can still add up quickly

    
    

Typical Private IVF Costs in the UK

Here’s an idea of average private prices per cycle:

• Initial consultation & tests: £500 – £1,500

• Medications: £1,000 – £2,500

• Monitoring (scans, blood tests): £500 – £1,500 (if not included in packages)

• Egg collection & lab fees: £3,500 – £5,000

• Embryo transfer: usually included in cycle cost

• Total average per cycle: £5,000 – £8,000 (excluding extras)

  
  

Optional extras can push costs higher:

• ICSI: £1,000 – £1,500

• Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT/PGD): £2,000 – £4,000

• Embryo freezing: £500 – £1,000

• Annual storage fees: £200 – £400 per year

  
  

Why Consider IVF Abroad?

For many couples, IVF abroad offers:

Lower Costs: IVF abroad can cost 30-50% less than private UK clinics—even with travel expenses.

Excellent Medical Standards: Many clinics hold international accreditations and follow strict quality protocols.

Shorter Waiting Times: Treatment can often start quickly, avoiding long NHS or UK clinic queues.

High Success Rates: Leading overseas clinics often publish strong success statistics comparable to, or better than, UK clinics.

Holiday Feel: Some couples combine treatment with a relaxing break in beautiful destinations.

Many clinics abroad cater to English-speaking patients and provide packages including:

• Consultations

• Medications

• Accommodation arrangements

• Airport transfers

  
  

Important Things to Check Before Going Abroad

• Success rates and clinic reputation

• Exactly what’s included in quoted prices

• Legal regulations in that country (e.g. embryo limits, donor anonymity)

• Language support and aftercare options

• Additional travel and accommodation costs

Bottom Line: While IVF in the UK can be effective, it’s often costly and sometimes hard to access. Exploring reputable clinics abroad could make your dream of starting a family more affordable—and less stressful.