Cost of Artificial Insemination

While infertility problems are on a rise, human artificial insemination is proving to be a boon for millions of childless couples. It is a commonly recommended solution for infertility problems. The procedure involves inserting a sperm of a donor or the patient's partner into either the cervix or uterus. When the sperm is inserted in the cervix, the process is called intra-cervical insemination (ICI), while the process that involves insertion of sperm in uterus, is called intra-uterine insemination (IUI). Both ICI and IUI are normally attempted before going for in-vitro fertilization (IVF). The reason is, ICI and IUI are comparatively less expensive than IVF.

How Much Does Artificial Insemination Cost
Although artificial insemination is cheaper than IVF, it is certainly not the most affordable option for average couples. The reason, why cost of artificial insemination is still significant, is because there are several tests and consultations involved. Consultation is required to detect if you are a candidate for artificial insemination or not. This is often the first course of treatment for couples with male infertility problems such as low sperm count, less motile sperms etc. Besides, the cost of drugs and diagnoses also needs to be taken into account. Moreover, the chances of woman getting pregnant in the first attempt itself are very rare. Hence, multiple sessions become inevitable, which increases the cost of artificial insemination.

Cost of Artificial Insemination Per Session
Typically, the cost of artificial insemination per session would vary depending upon the medical condition of each patient. If the woman is allergic to sperms, then she may have to be put on special drugs before the actual procedure. The sperm is then 'washed' before inserting in the uterus or cervix of the woman (washing involves separating the healthiest sperms from others for insertion). This procedure is included in the total artificial insemination cost. A woman is prescribed ovulation drugs that are to be taken for five days starting from the second day of her cycle. These fertility drugs induce ovulation and stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs. An ovulation kit is made available to the woman, to detect ovulation time, so that insemination can be attempted around that time. The actual procedure can be completed in less than hour and there is almost no pain involved.

The average cost of artificial insemination is about $300 - $700, per session and can increase further depending upon the clinic you choose. You can expect the total cost to run anywhere between $1000 - $5000 depending upon the number of cycles you are required to undergo. On an average, a couple needs to undergo 3 to 6 cycles, before they can switch to other treatment. Although, the success rate of the overall procedure is 5 to 20%, each session assures only 20% chances of pregnancy. The success rate may vary depending upon your age, reproductive health and other factors.

All in all, the cost of artificial insemination is based on following important factors.

• The cost of consultation and diagnosis
• The cost of drug therapy
• The cost of the AI procedure
• The cost of hospital stay (if required)

Insurance Coverage for the Cost of Artificial Insemination
Although, it is less likely for the insurance companies to cover the cost of fertility treatment, artificial insemination is insured by some companies. Some states have made it mandatory for the insurance companies to cover the cost of artificial insemination, but with certain restrictions. You can find out about the terms and conditions of insurance coverage for artificial insemination by inquiring at the billing department of your doctor's clinic.

Cost of artificial insemination can largely vary depending upon your country and the type of fertility clinic you decide to go for. This is definitely an expensive treatment, but since the success rate largely depends upon the expertise, it is unwise to go for inexpensive options available.