There are life scenarios, on the way for a couple to form a family, sometimes they are faced with unexpected obstacles, such as difficulties in having children naturally. In situations like these, reproductive technology opens a new window of hope. One option that has helped many couples achieve their dream of having children is IVF. Before going any further, it is important to understand and prepare for what is involved in this process.
IVF, or In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), is a sophisticated medical process that has come a long way in the last few decades. Through IVF, the egg and sperm are fertilized outside the body, and the resulting embryo is then implanted into the uterus. However, before deciding to undergo this procedure, there are many preparations that must be made, starting from physical and emotional readiness to financial aspects.
When considering IVF, it is important to recognize that this is a big decision that may affect many aspects of your life and that of your partner. Therefore, a planned approach will be very helpful.
Come on, let's discuss in depth the important steps in preparing yourself—especially from a financial standpoint—for IVF programs in this article, and provide more insight, especially from a financial perspective.
IVF Cost Components
As preparation, first you have to find out the costs that must be prepared to carry out this IVF program.
Quoting from the official Ciputra Hospital website, some of the cost components for this IVF program are as follows:
- Basic fertility check: IDR 1,300,000
- Sperm analysis fee: IDR 4,000,000
- Treatment to fertilize the womb: IDR 8,000,000
- Treatment monitoring includes blood tests, ultrasound and other actions: IDR 12,000,000
- Egg collection process: IDR 5,000,000
- Genetic testing includes embryo biopsy IDR 22,000,000, and PGT-A per embryo IDR 2,000,000
- Embryo transfer: IDR 10,000,000
All of the above cost components are in range. Each health facility may have its own policy regarding the amount of this fee, while also depending on the health conditions of you and your partner. So that it can be calculated more realistically, it's a good idea to ask for information directly from the health facility where you want to do IVF.
So, if you add up the price range as above, you and your partner must at least prepare funds for this IVF program of IDR 65,000,000. Of course again, this nominal can change, because according to information from the same article, it all depends on the patient's condition and what kind of treatment needs will be needed in the process. It can be bigger, if you need other additional care.
Financial Preparation for Starting IVF Programs
It cannot be denied that the IVF program is a significant financial investment. The range of costs required can be very large and varies depending on the location of the clinic, the level of complexity of the case, and one more thing, namely the number of cycles that may be required.
Typically, this fee includes consultations, examinations, medications, and the procedure itself. In addition, there are also additional costs that may be unexpected. Understanding that these costs can become a financial burden, it is important to plan and prepare carefully.
Come on, now let's discuss steps that can be taken to prepare yourself financially before starting IVF.
Create a budget
Making a budget is one of the things that must be made first when you have decided to undergo an IVF program.
The preparation of this budget includes:
- Clinic Fee Research . Do some research on different fertility clinics to understand their fee structure. Some clinics may offer pricing plans, while others may have item-by-item fees. Keep track of and compare the costs offered by different clinics.
- Identify Cost Components . Above, we have tried to look at the components of costs incurred in IVF programs one by one. But what is listed above is just a range. To be more certain in detail, it's a good idea to directly contact the doctor or hospital of your choice. Make a detailed list of these cost components.
- Additional Fees . Also take into account additional costs that may be required, such as transportation costs, lodging (if the clinic is far from where you live), and costs for storing embryos or sperm, which are usually not included in the estimated costs of the clinic or doctor .
Create a financial plan
Now you know that the cost of IVF is quite significant. Because it is very important to allocate a portion of the family income every month for the IVF program budget.
It could be that you and your partner both work, or maybe only one earns and is the backbone of the family's income. Discuss these allocations with your partner carefully.
With a significant nominal value, the amount allocated must be realistic and you can fulfill it without disturbing other important expenses. You may need to open a new bank account or use other methods to store and manage the funds allocated for IVF.
Monitor the budget regularly to ensure it stays on track. If there is a change in income or expenses, adjust this budget as needed.
Recycle Considerations
Understanding and considering the possibility of repeat cycles in IVF programs is also important, because not all IVF attempts are successful on the first try. Therefore, discuss with the doctors you meet about the chances of success for IVF programs based on the health conditions of you and your partner. This will give an idea of whether or not to undergo more than one cycle.
If necessary, calculate how much it might cost for each additional cycle. This may cover the cost of procedures, medications, and consultations. Then, back to the beginning again, namely allocating a portion of income or savings as a special fund intended to cover recycling costs if needed. This should be part of the overall budget that has been prepared for this IVF program.
After each cycle, evaluate your financial situation, and discuss with your doctor and partner whether it is feasible and possible to continue with additional cycles based on your health and financial condition.
Considering repeat cycles financially will help you deal with the possibility of going through more than one cycle without undue financial stress.
The Importance of an Emergency Fund
Setting up an emergency fund in the IVF program is also important for dealing with unexpected situations and minimizing financial stress.
Even if you have made careful cost estimates, there may be unforeseen costs that arise during the process, such as the cost of additional medications, additional medical examinations, or other procedures that may be required.
There will also be a chance for health complications to occur during or after the IVF process, although of course we always hope for the best for you and your partner. However, having an emergency fund can provide peace of mind. This will allow you to focus on the IVF process more calmly, without worrying about financial instability.
The IVF process can also affect working conditions, whether due to having to take time off or otherwise, and an emergency fund can provide financial security during this period.
On the way to undergo IVF, careful and proper financial preparation is one of the main pillars that will support your success and well-being during this process. Understanding and planning for the costs involved, setting a realistic budget, considering the possibility of recycling, and setting up an emergency fund are key steps that will fortify you and your partner from unnecessary financial stress.
With proper preparation, you and your partner can focus on what's most important: living this journey with a calm and hopeful heart, with strong financial support. Remember that the investment you are making is not only material, but also an emotional and time investment in creating a new life.
Make every step in this preparation a part of your and your partner's commitment and dedication in realizing your dream of having children.
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Written by: Nadia Harsya CFP®
Nadia Harsya is a Certified Financial Planner and activist of financial literacy for empowered women, mothers and families. Take a peek at other financial tips in simple language on the Instagram account @noninadia.
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