Surrogacy with IVF is one of the most expensive fertility treatments, with costs varying widely based on location, agency fees, medical expenses, and legal requirements. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the expenses involved:
1. Average Total Cost of Surrogacy with IVF
| Type of Surrogacy | Estimated Total Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Gestational Surrogacy (Agency-Based, U.S.) | 100,000–200,000+ |
| Independent Surrogacy (U.S., No Agency) | 80,000–150,000 |
| International Surrogacy (e.g., Mexico, Ukraine, Georgia, Colombia) | 50,000–120,000 |
(Note: Prices vary significantly by country, surrogate compensation, and medical needs.)
2. Breakdown of Costs
A. IVF & Medical Expenses (20,000–40,000)
- Egg retrieval & fertilization (10,000–20,000)
- Embryo creation & genetic testing (PGT) (3,000–7,000)
- Embryo transfer to surrogate (3,000–5,000)
- Fertility medications (3,000–8,000)
B. Surrogate Compensation (30,000–70,000+)
- Base compensation (U.S. average: 45,000–60,000)
- Additional payments (multiples, C-section, travel, etc.)
- Health insurance (if not covered, 10,000–20,000)
C. Agency Fees (20,000–40,000)
- Matching services, screening, case management
D. Legal Fees (10,000–20,000)
- Surrogacy contracts
- Parentage orders (pre/post-birth)
E. Other Expenses (5,000–15,000)
- Psychological screenings
- Life insurance for surrogate
- Travel & accommodation (if long-distance)
3. Ways to Reduce Costs
✔ Independent surrogacy (finding a surrogate without an agency)
✔ International surrogacy (lower-cost countries like Mexico, Ukraine, or Colombia)
✔ Shared donor eggs (if using a donor, splitting costs with another couple)
✔ Insurance coverage (some U.S. states mandate partial coverage)
4. Financing & Financial Assistance
- Fertility loans (e.g., Prosper, LendingClub)
- Grants & scholarships (e.g., Baby Quest Foundation, Gay Parents to Be)
- Crowdfunding (GoFundMe, family support)
5. Is It Worth the Cost?
While surrogacy with IVF is expensive, many intended parents find it life-changing. Success rates with IVF-surrogacy are high (60-75% per transfer with tested embryos), making it a reliable option for those who need it.
Final Answer:
Surrogacy with IVF typically costs between 100,000–200,000 in the U.S. International options can be cheaper (50,000–120,000). Costs depend on agency fees, surrogate compensation, IVF needs, and legal requirements.
