Is technology driving up the price of IVF?

Technology advancements have indeed contributed to the rising costs of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment. Here’s how technology drives up the price of IVF:

1. Advanced Lab Equipment: IVF procedures require sophisticated lab equipment for processes like embryo culture, genetic testing, and cryopreservation. The cost of acquiring and maintaining this equipment is significant and contributes to the overall cost of IVF.

2. Genetic Screening: Technologies like Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) help identify genetic abnormalities in embryos before implantation, increasing the chances of successful pregnancies. While beneficial, these procedures incur extra costs for patients.

3. Time-Lapse Imaging: Time-lapse imaging systems monitor embryo development round the clock without disturbing them, providing valuable insights for embryologists to select the healthiest embryos for implantation. This technology, though beneficial, adds to the cost of IVF treatments.

4. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): ICSI, a technology used to inject a single sperm directly into an egg to assist fertilization, is often recommended in cases of male infertility. This advanced procedure raises the overall cost of IVF.

5. Cryopreservation: Freezing embryos or eggs for future use involves specialized technology and storage facilities, which incur additional costs for patients opting for this service.

Tips to Manage Costs:

– Insurance Coverage: Check if your