Cost of Artificial Insemination

While infertility problems are on the 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 as intra-cervical insemination (ICI), while the process that involves insertion of sperm in uterus, is called as 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?
Artificial insemination is still considered as an expensive treatment. The reason, why cost for artificial insemination is so high, is because there are several tests and consultations involved. Besides, the cost of drugs and diagnoses is also to be taken into account. Moreover, the chances of the 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
So, how much does it cost for artificial insemination per session? Typically, the cost of artificial insemination per session would vary depending upon the medical conditions of each patient. If the woman is allergic to sperms, then she may have to be put on fertility drugs before the actual procedure. The sperm is then washed before inserting in the uterus or cervix of the woman. This is included in the artificial insemination cost. Drugs are also given to stimulate ovulation. An ovulation kit is made available to the woman, to detect when she is ovulating, so that the procedure can be completed. 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. Although, the success rate of the overall procedure is fair enough, each session assures only 10-15% chances of pregnancy. The success rate may vary depending upon your age, sexual health and other factors. However, ICI treatment is slightly less expensive.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Artificial Insemination

• The cost of investigation and diagnosis
• The cost of drug therapy
• The cost of the AI procedure
• The cost of the hospital stay

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.

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.