PollenTree

Fertility Tourism

Are All Countries the Same?
Although IVF was first engineered in the UK is it still one of the most expensive countries for such treatment. The high cost of IVF in the UK has forced couples to travel abroad for treatment. In addition other countries are so tightly regulated or ban such treatments altogether that couples have to travel to the UK. Not all countries are the same and there is a disparity between countries that needs to be addressed.

For example Britain, Spain, Belgium and Canada permit embryo freezing, sperm and egg donation and embryo screening whilst Germany, Italy, Egypt and Saudi Arabia do not. Japan and Norway permit sperm donation but not egg or embryo donation.


What To Consider When Choosing a Country for Fertility Treatment
Decide on what type of treatment you want. For example, if you need to use donated eggs or sperm in the treatment then not all countries permit this. Some countries will only treat married couples using their own sperm and eggs.

When deciding whether to travel abroad for treatment you need to consider how far clinics are regulated in the country of choice. European countries who are members of the EU or EEA have common standards of quality and safety as a result of the passing of the EU Tissues and Cells Directive which in particular governs the storage and deportation of sperm.

Most countries such as the UK has a long waiting list for free treatment and the numbers of egg and sperm donors has dropped due to a law which no longer protects their identity and due to the fact they can only be paid for expenses.

Choosing the right country to have fertility treatment can be a minefield because of the differences in the levels of service clinics are able to offer. You should always check the IVF regulations in the country before travelling. You should also check the prices of private clinics and ensure that they are licensed.