Introduction

Nothing in life can compare to the moment a baby enters the world and the moment you become a parent. In the field of medicine, few advancements have had as much impact as the various methods of assisted reproduction.

Thanks to modern achievements, couples around the world have been given hope and the opportunity to fulfill their dream of parenthood, even when facing the challenges of infertility. One of the most well-known and successful methods on that journey is in vitro fertilization (IVF), which we will explain in detail in the text that follows.

In addition, here you can find all the essential information about the causes of infertility, different assisted reproduction techniques, the stages of the IVF process, and the factors that affect its success. We will thoroughly explain the advantages and challenges of this method, possible complications, as well as the financial aspects of treatment, both in Serbia and abroad.

No matter where you are on your path to parenthood, this guide will help you gain a clearer understanding of what to expect and how to make the best choices for yourself.

What Is In Vitro Fertilization?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the most well-known methods of treating infertility. It is a process in which an egg and sperm are combined outside the human body, in a laboratory setting, with the goal of achieving pregnancy.

This method offers a chance for parenthood to couples facing various causes of infertility, such as ovulation disorders, fallopian tube damage, endometriosis, or male infertility.

In addition to being used for treating infertility, IVF is also utilized in gestational surrogacy. When combined with preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), it allows for the prevention of inherited genetic disorders. In cases where a fertilized egg is transferred into the uterus of a surrogate mother who has no genetic link to the embryo, the child born will also not be genetically related to the surrogate.

Some countries have restricted or banned the use of IVF, leading to the emergence of fertility tourism. In addition, high costs and age limitations often present obstacles to accessing this type of treatment and successfully carrying a pregnancy to term.

The First In Vitro Fertilization

Since 1978, when Louise Brown — the first baby conceived through IVF — was born, this method has led to the birth of over 3.5 million children worldwide. The procedure was performed during a natural menstrual cycle, without hormonal stimulation, in the laboratory of Dr Kershaw’s Cottage Hospital in Royton, Oldham, England. Edwards, one of the scientists who developed this technology, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2010.

Causes of Infertility

What Types of Infertility Exist?

There are two main types of infertility:

• Primary infertility refers to a situation in which a couple, despite regular and unprotected sexual intercourse, has never been able to achieve a pregnancy.
• Secondary infertility occurs in couples who have previously had one or more pregnancies, but now, despite attempts, are unable to conceive again.

Most Common Causes of Infertility in Women

• Ovulation Problems: Ovulation is the process of releasing an egg from the ovary, and its disorders are among the most common causes of infertility. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that causes irregular or absent ovulation. In addition to PCOS, hormonal imbalances, such as reduced production of hormones that stimulate ovulation (FSH and LH), can interfere with this process.
• Fallopian Tube Problems: Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes prevent the egg from meeting the sperm, thus preventing natural conception. Causes can include infections, such as salpingitis, as well as the aftermath of previous surgical interventions or tissue scarring.
• Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, most commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and in the pelvic cavity. This tissue can cause inflammation, pain, and scarring, impairing the function of the reproductive organs.
• Uterine Problems: Uterine abnormalities, such as fibroids (benign tumors), polyps (excessive growth of the endometrial lining), or congenital malformations, can make embryo implantation difficult. Additionally, chronic uterine infections or a thin endometrium can affect the uterus’s ability to sustain a pregnancy.
• Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI): POI is a condition in which the ovaries lose their function before the age of 40, leading to reduced estrogen production and menstrual cycle irregularities. Although often confused with early menopause, POI can still involve occasional ovulation. Causes of POI may include genetic factors, autoimmune diseases, infections, toxins (such as chemotherapy or radiation), or unknown reasons (idiopathic POI).
• Immunological Factors: Immune disorders can affect fertility through several mechanisms. In some women, the body may produce antibodies that attack their own eggs, leading to damage and difficulty in fertilization. Additionally, conditions like antiphospholipid syndrome or impaired immune response regulation can lead to chronic inflammation in the uterus, hindering embryo implantation. Immunological factors are also associated with repeated miscarriages.
• Poor Egg Quality: The quality of eggs depends on several factors, including the woman’s age, genetic predispositions, and lifestyle. As women age, their eggs become more prone to chromosomal abnormalities, which reduces the chances of successful fertilization and increases the risk of miscarriage. In addition to aging, poor egg quality can result from oxidative stress, hormonal imbalances, endometriosis, or previous medical treatments (such as chemotherapy).

Most Common Causes of Infertility in Men

• Poor Sperm Quality: Sperm quality is determined by the number, motility, and morphology of sperm. A reduced sperm count (oligospermia), poor motility (asthenozoospermia), or abnormal morphology (teratozoospermia) can significantly affect fertilization ability. These problems can result from infections, exposure to toxins, smoking, alcohol or drug use, as well as varicocele (enlarged veins in the testes).
• Hormonal Imbalances: Levels of hormones such as testosterone, FSH, and LH may be reduced or imbalanced, affecting sperm production and maturation. This condition can be caused by congenital syndromes, pituitary or hypothalamic tumors, as well as stress.
• Mechanical Obstructions: Blockages in the semen ducts prevent sperm from reaching the ejaculate. These can result from previous infections, surgical interventions (e.g., vasectomy), or congenital malformations. In cases of obstructive azoospermia, sperm can be retrieved surgically, such as through TESE or TESA procedures.
• Immunological Factors: The immune system can produce antisperm antibodies (ASA), which affect sperm motility and function. This condition can be caused by infections, injuries, or previous surgical interventions and is most commonly diagnosed with the MAR test.

When is IVF Recommended?

Couples under the age of 35 are considered potentially infertile if, despite regular and unprotected intercourse, pregnancy does not occur within 12 months.

Couples over the age of 35 should seek professional help if conception does not occur after 6 months of regular and unprotected intercourse, as fertility declines with age.

Success Rate

The success rate of IVF represents the percentage of procedures that lead to a positive outcome, either in the form of confirmed pregnancy (pregnancy rate) or the birth of a live child (live birth rate). Advances in reproductive medicine have led to an increase in the live birth rate after the fifth IVF cycle, from 76% in 2005 to 80% in 2010. At the same time, the number of transferred embryos has decreased, significantly reducing the risk of multiple pregnancies (from 25% to 8%). The success rate can be influenced by the following factors:

Age of the Woman as a Key Factor

Age is one of the most important indicators of IVF success. Women under the age of 35 have about a 50% chance of success per cycle, while after the age of 40, this rate drops to 10–20%. For women over the age of 41, success significantly increases with the use of donor eggs, which are typically of higher quality.

Embryo Quality and Genetic Testing

Embryo quality plays a major role in the success of the procedure. Embryos that reach the blastocyst stage (5–6 days of development) have the highest potential for successful implantation. Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) allows for the selection of embryos without chromosomal abnormalities, further increasing the chances of success.

Reproductive History and Health Status

Women who have been pregnant before often have better chances of success compared to those who have never been pregnant. The overall health of the patient, hormonal balance, uterine condition, and the absence of diseases such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome are also crucial. Timely preparation of the body, as well as proper nutrition, can significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome.

Male Factor Infertility

Although the focus is often on the woman, the male factor of infertility is equally important. Reduced sperm count or poor motility can affect the success of IVF. In such cases, the ICSI technique, which we will describe in detail later, allows for the direct insertion of sperm into the egg, significantly increasing the chances of fertilization.

Lifestyle Habits and Lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle plays a crucial role in reproductive success, especially for couples undergoing IVF treatment. Research shows that avoiding alcohol, nicotine, and excessive stress, while maintaining a normal body weight and regular physical activity, can significantly improve IVF outcomes. Lifestyle affects hormonal balance, the quality of eggs and sperm, and the success of embryo implantation. For example, smoking is linked to a reduced ovarian reserve and poorer embryo quality, while excessive alcohol consumption can negatively affect spermatogenesis and endometrial receptivity. Additionally, excessive or insufficient body weight can lead to hormonal imbalances that reduce the chances of a successful pregnancy. Moderate physical activity and a diet rich in antioxidants can improve fertility by reducing oxidative stress and promoting cellular health, which is essential for the successful development of embryos and their implantation.

The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach

The success of in vitro fertilization (IVF) depends on numerous factors, including the patient’s age, embryo quality, and overall health. However, one of the key elements that can significantly impact the final outcome is the multidisciplinary support throughout the entire process. A comprehensive approach that involves different specialists ensures the best possible conditions for a successful pregnancy.

• Gynecological Support – Accurate diagnostics, monitoring of hormonal therapy, and endometrial preparation play a critical role in the success of implantation. Proper oversight during stimulation and the egg retrieval procedure ensures optimal conditions for obtaining quality oocytes.
• Embryological Expertise – The skills and experience of embryologists are crucial in selecting the best fertilization techniques, cultivating embryos, and preparing them for transfer. The evaluation of embryo quality directly influences IVF success rates, and consulting with an embryologist can help you better understand the entire process.
• Nutritional Guidance – A tailored diet can improve hormonal balance, reduce inflammatory processes, and positively affect the quality of eggs and the endometrium. By following a nutritionist’s recommendations, you can enhance your health and increase your chances of a successful pregnancy.
• Psychological Support – IVF can be an emotionally challenging process, and stress and anxiety can negatively affect hormonal balance and overall health. Working with a psychologist who understands the specific aspects of IVF helps in managing emotions, maintaining a positive attitude, and preserving mental well-being.

Many patients focus solely on the medical aspect of the procedure, but this holistic approach is what makes the difference between an attempt and success. Depending on your needs, you can explore our services here, where we offer comprehensive support throughout the entire process.

If you want expert support at every step, individualized advice, and a team to guide you through the process, contact us here so we can help you choose the best approach for your upcoming treatment.

WHAT ARE THE STAGES OF THE IVF PROCEDURE?

• Ovarian stimulation:
  The use of hormonal medications stimulates the maturation of multiple eggs, initiating the process of ovarian hyperstimulation with the goal of developing multiple follicles in the ovaries. This procedure begins with predicting the response to stimulation, considering factors such as age, antral follicle count, and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels. Based on the results and examination—which may indicate a poor or excessive response to stimulation—the appropriate protocol and dosage for ovarian stimulation medication are determined.
• Folliculometry:
  An ultrasound examination used to monitor follicle development during the menstrual cycle. This method enables accurate measurement of follicle size and number, helping determine the optimal time for ovulation or ovarian puncture during IVF.
• Ovarian puncture:
  Eggs are retrieved from the patient via transvaginal aspiration, guided by ultrasound. A needle is inserted into the follicles to aspirate the eggs and follicular fluid, which are then sent to the embryologist in the lab for analysis. The procedure lasts approximately 20 to 40 minutes and is performed under sedation or anesthesia.
• Processing and preparation of eggs and sperm:
  In the laboratory, the processing of eggs and sperm depends on several factors, including the type of fertilization (IVF or ICSI) and the source of the sperm (ejaculate, donor material, or tissue obtained via TESA/TESE/MESA).
• Fertilization (IVF or ICSI):
  For ICSI procedures, the protective cells surrounding the egg (cumulus cells) are removed, and the eggs are prepared for fertilization. Before fertilization, egg maturity is assessed, as only those in Metaphase II are suitable for fertilization. In some cases, eggs in Metaphase I can be cultured further until they reach the necessary stage. Immature eggs are excluded from the fertilization process due to chromosomal incompatibility.
  Meanwhile, sperm is processed by removing inactive cells and seminal fluid through various techniques that differ between labs and depending on the material source.
  In the case of co-incubation—where untreated eggs are incubated with sperm (IVF)—the fertilization process mimics nature. Sperm must break down the protective cumulus layer using enzymes for a single sperm to fertilize the egg. Careful control of sperm concentration is important to avoid polyspermy, where multiple sperm enter the egg. The duration of co-incubation varies between institutions and may be short (4–6 hours) or long (16–18 hours).
• Embryo culture:
  Embryos are monitored for several days in the laboratory.
• Embryo transfer:
  One or more embryos are transferred into the uterus.
• Cryopreservation:
  Freezing of remaining embryos for future use. (More on this process)
• Pregnancy test:
  Two weeks after embryo transfer, a hormonal pregnancy test (ß-HCG) is performed.

WHAT METHODS ARE USED IN IVF?

1. IVF (In vitro fertilization): A classical fertilization method in which eggs and sperm are placed in a laboratory dish, mimicking natural fertilization. Fertilization typically occurs overnight, and the resulting embryos are then cultured in an incubator for three to five days.
2. ICSI: Injection of a single sperm into the egg using a special microscope. This form of IVF is recommended in cases of male factor infertility. MICSI: Selection of the morphologically best sperm under high magnification. PICSI: Selection of sperm that bind to hyaluronan gel.
3. Folliculometry: A procedure that involves a series of ultrasound scans to monitor the growth of follicles in the ovaries.
4. Insemination (IUI): A simple and minimally invasive infertility treatment involving the placement of prepared sperm directly into the woman’s uterus to increase the chances of fertilization. This procedure is typically used in cases of mild male infertility, ovulation issues, or when the cause of infertility is unknown (idiopathic infertility). Insemination can be performed in a natural cycle or with ovarian stimulation to encourage the maturation of more eggs. The procedure is quick, painless, and often represents the first step in infertility treatment before turning to more complex methods like IVF. The success rate depends on the patient’s age, sperm quality, and other factors.
5. Cryopreservation of embryos and reproductive material: A procedure done for both medical and non-medical reasons. Surplus embryos created during IVF can be frozen and used in future attempts. This is important, as the woman does not need to undergo another round of hormonal stimulation.
6. TESE/TESA: TESE (testicular sperm extraction) and TESA (testicular sperm aspiration) are surgical procedures used for men with azoospermia, a condition where no sperm are present in the ejaculate. These methods allow sperm to be retrieved directly from testicular tissue for use in IVF with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). TESA is typically performed in cases of obstructive azoospermia, while TESE is used in both obstructive and non-obstructive forms. The procedures can be done under local or general anesthesia, depending on the case. After extraction, sperm can be frozen and later used for IVF.
7. Embryo donation: This method is especially helpful for couples or individuals who cannot use their own reproductive cells for medical reasons.
8. Surrogacy: For women who are unable to carry a pregnancy, the couple can, with the help of a clinic and in accordance with legal regulations, find a surrogate mother to carry the pregnancy. This option is very limited and legally regulated in only a few countries.
9. In vitro maturation of oocytes (IVM): The growth of immature eggs in the lab, particularly useful for patients with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome).
10. ERPeak Endometrial Receptivity Test: Helps identify the optimal timing for embryo transfer into the endometrium during IVF, known as the window of implantation.
11. Natural cycle IVF: Monitoring the growth of a naturally selected follicle via ultrasound without the use of ovarian stimulation drugs. After aspiration, the egg is processed in the lab and, if fertilized and divided, embryo transfer follows. It is suitable for women who do not want hormone therapy, have diminished ovarian reserve, or have medical contraindications for hormone use.
12. Time-Lapse incubator: Continuous monitoring of embryo development without removing them from the incubator, minimizing stress. The Time-Lapse system increases the chances of success by providing detailed insight into embryo development and allowing for more precise selection for embryo transfer.
13. Assisted Hatching: Thinning or breaching of the embryo’s shell (zona pellucida) to assist its “hatching” and implantation in the uterine lining. The laser method is most commonly used and recommended for older patients, those with previous failed IVF attempts, or when the embryo has a thicker shell.
14. Frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET): A procedure where previously frozen embryos are thawed and transferred into the woman’s uterus. This method allows patients to use embryos left over from a previous IVF cycle. FET is often done in a natural or hormonally stimulated cycle, depending on the patient’s health condition. The procedure is less invasive than a full IVF cycle and enables multiple pregnancy attempts without additional ovarian stimulation. The success of the transfer depends on embryo quality and the readiness of the endometrium.

POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS IN IVF

• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): A condition that occurs due to an excessive ovarian response to hormonal stimulation. In milder forms, it causes bloating, abdominal pain, and mild discomfort, while in more severe cases, it can lead to fluid accumulation in the abdomen and lungs, severe dehydration, blood clotting issues, and kidney function disorders. Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and may include rest, intravenous fluids, or in rare cases, hospitalization.
• Bleeding, infections, and organ injury: During the egg retrieval procedure using a needle through the vaginal wall, there is a small risk of bleeding, infections, or damage to nearby organs such as the bladder or intestines. Although these complications are rare, they may require antibiotic treatment or, in exceptional cases, surgical intervention.
• Anesthesia complications: During ovarian puncture, which is usually performed with mild general anesthesia or sedative analgesia, reactions such as nausea, vomiting, allergic reactions, or in very rare cases, more serious cardiorespiratory complications may occur. Therefore, it is essential that patients are monitored by an anesthesiologist and that the procedure is performed in a controlled environment.
• Multiple pregnancy and ectopic pregnancy: One of the risks of IVF is the possibility of multiple pregnancies, especially when more than one embryo is transferred into the uterus. Multiple pregnancies carry an increased risk of preterm birth, pregnancy complications, and health problems in newborns. The current trend in IVF is to transfer fewer embryos to minimize this risk. There is also a small risk of ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo implants outside the uterine cavity, most commonly in the fallopian tube. This condition requires urgent medical attention as it can lead to serious complications.

• Psychological stress: The IVF process can be emotionally demanding for patients, due to the uncertainty of the outcome, the physical toll of the procedure, and financial strain. A failed attempt may lead to feelings of disappointment, anxiety, or depression. Support from a partner, family, and mental health professionals can be crucial in coping with these challenges.

Although these complications are possible, IVF is a procedure performed under strict medical supervision, and most patients go through it without serious issues. Regular monitoring and open communication with the doctor can significantly reduce risks and improve the chances of a successful pregnancy.

DEVIATIONS FROM THE PROCEDURE

Although IVF is a carefully planned and controlled process, in certain cases the procedure may be interrupted before the embryo is transferred to the uterus. The reasons for this can vary, and the decision to interrupt is made to avoid unnecessary risks and to better plan the next attempt.

Possible reasons for interrupting the procedure include:

• Insufficient response to therapy – In some patients, the ovaries do not respond adequately to stimulation, resulting in a small number of mature follicles or their complete absence. In such cases, the doctor may advise canceling the cycle and considering a different protocol for the next attempt.
• Premature ovulation – In rare cases, despite controlled stimulation and regular monitoring, spontaneous rupture of the follicles may occur before the scheduled egg retrieval, making it impossible to collect the eggs.
• Empty follicle syndrome – After follicle aspiration, it may happen that no egg cells are found in them, which prevents the continuation of the procedure. This may be due to the individual ovarian response or technical factors.
• Unsuccessful fertilization – Despite successful egg retrieval, in some cases fertilization does not occur, either due to poor egg or sperm quality, or other contributing factors.
• Arrest in embryo development – Even if fertilization occurs, embryos sometimes do not develop as expected, preventing their transfer to the uterus.

The decision to interrupt the procedure does not mark the end of treatment but rather allows doctors to analyze the causes of failure and suggest appropriate adjustments for future attempts. Thanks to ongoing advances in reproductive medicine, there are many strategies available that can increase the chances of a successful outcome in future cycles.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST CLINIC FOR IN VITRO FERTILIZATION (IVF)?

It is important to note that there is no single “best” IVF clinic – success depends on many factors, including the individual circumstances of the patient, available treatment methods, the experience of the specialists, the equipment of the laboratory, the quality of service, and the location of the center. Choosing the right clinic is one of the most important decisions on the path to parenthood, so it is necessary to thoroughly research all options and tailor the decision to your specific needs. Above all, the best clinic is the one where you feel safe, informed, and supported throughout the entire journey toward parenthood.

Criteria for Choosing a Clinic:

1. Success Rate and Reputation:
   One of the most important factors is the clinic’s success rate, which indicates the likelihood of achieving pregnancy. However, it is important to understand how this data is calculated – some clinics only publish statistics for certain patient groups, which can give a distorted picture. Along with numbers, it is also important to check patient reviews and the clinic’s reputation in medical circles.

2. Experience and Expertise of the Staff:
   The team of doctors, embryologists, and nurses plays a crucial role throughout the process. A clinic with experienced staff that uses modern treatment methods and provides individualized care can significantly increase the chances of success.

3. Availability of Modern Treatment Methods:
   Different clinics offer different IVF techniques. If you have a specific medical problem (e.g., low ovarian reserve, need for genetic testing or egg donation), it is important to ensure that the clinic offers the appropriate procedures, such as ICSI, natural cycle IVF, etc.

4. Location and Accessibility:
   The proximity of the clinic, accommodation options, and ease of travel can significantly affect the overall experience of treatment. Some patients choose local clinics for convenience, while others opt for foreign centers that offer advanced methods or better treatment prices.

5. Legal Regulations and Ethical Standards:
   Every country has its own legal framework regarding IVF. Before choosing a clinic, check if the procedure you need is allowed in that country. Also, make sure the clinic adheres to high ethical standards and transparently communicates all treatment conditions.

6. Cost and Additional Expenses:
   IVF is a financially demanding process, and costs vary significantly from clinic to clinic. In addition to the basic procedure cost, pay attention to potential additional costs – preparatory tests, hormone therapy, embryo freezing, and other laboratory procedures.

7. Patient Support and Individualized Approach:
   IVF can be emotionally challenging, so it is important for the clinic to offer good support – whether through the availability of staff, the possibility of additional consultations, psychological counseling, or detailed monitoring of the patient throughout the process.

We collaborate with leading clinics in different countries that are known for their high-quality services, modern treatment methods, and individualized patient care. Depending on your needs, we can help you choose a clinic that best suits your case, considering the location that is most convenient for you. Check out the clinics we work with here and find the ideal place for your journey to parenthood.

STATISTICS AND EXPERIENCES

According to data from the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), the average IVF success rate depends on several factors, including the patient’s age, the quality of the eggs and sperm, and the specifics of the procedure itself.

• For women under 35 years old, the success rate is about 30% per cycle.

• For women aged 35 to 40, the success rate gradually decreases and ranges between 15% and 25%.

• For women over 40 years old, the chances of a successful pregnancy via IVF are significantly lower, averaging 5-10% per cycle, and often require the use of donor eggs.

Recent advancements in technology and new techniques over the past few decades have significantly improved IVF outcomes. The application of methods such as preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), egg freezing (detailed in the next article), embryo freezing, and individualized approaches to ovarian stimulation have contributed to higher implantation rates and reduced risk of complications.

The experiences of patients who have gone through the IVF process can vary greatly, but one thing is certain – proper preparation, professional support, and an individualized approach make a big difference. Some couples have succeeded after the first cycle, while others have had to invest more time and patience to achieve their goal.

Many emphasize that being well-informed about the procedures, having realistic expectations, and making timely decisions (such as starting treatment on time, choosing the right clinic, or adapting their lifestyle to improve chances of success) had a key impact on the outcome. Emotional support – whether from medical staff, partners, or specialized counselors – helped them navigate the challenges of this process more easily.

On our website, you can find experiences from patients who have undergone IVF with professional support, as well as advice to help you prepare for this step in the best possible way.

How much does IVF cost?

The cost of IVF can vary significantly depending on the clinic, type of procedure, and the country in which the treatment is performed. These costs include not only the procedure itself but also additional services such as hormonal stimulation, laboratory tests, embryo freezing, genetic testing, and, in some cases, donation of reproductive cells.

IVF Costs in Serbia

In private clinics in Serbia, the cost of one IVF cycle ranges from 2,000 to 4,000 euros, depending on the included procedures and techniques used. Costs can vary significantly from clinic to clinic, with the highest concentration of IVF centers located in Belgrade, where patients have the broadest choice of treatment methods. Patients who meet the criteria can receive financial support through the Republic Health Insurance Fund (RFZO), which covers part of the costs for couples who meet the requirements. The majority of IVF clinics are in Belgrade, though there are also clinics in other cities in Serbia. Choosing a clinic depends on the availability of certain procedures, the expertise of the team, and the patient’s individual needs.

However, additional services can significantly increase the overall cost of the procedure, including:

• Embryo freezing – usually between 200 and 500 euros for storage, with additional annual storage fees.

• Genetic tests – Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can cost 1,500 euros or more, depending on the number of embryos tested.

• Egg or sperm donation – If donor cells are used, the cost of the procedure can be significantly higher, often exceeding 5,000 euros.

IVF Costs Abroad

If patients choose IVF abroad, prices vary depending on the country and clinic.

• Greece and the Czech Republic – The cost of one IVF cycle ranges from 3,000 to 6,000 euros. These countries are popular among foreign patients due to relatively affordable prices and good medical standards.

• Spain and Denmark – Prices are higher, usually ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 euros, depending on the clinic and procedures used.

• USA and the UK – IVF costs can be significantly higher, often exceeding 10,000 euros per cycle, with additional costs that can increase the total price to over 15,000 euros.

When choosing a clinic, patients often consider not only the price but also other factors such as the quality of medical services, success rates, the legal regulation of egg and sperm donation, as well as travel costs and accommodation abroad.

Final Word

In vitro fertilization (IVF) represents one of the greatest medical innovations, providing hope and the possibility of parenthood to millions of couples around the world. Although the process is often demanding—emotionally, physically, and financially—with the right information, expert support, and appropriate approach, the path to a desired pregnancy can be achievable.

Given the complexity of the entire procedure, it is crucial that couples thoroughly inform themselves about all options, procedures, and potential challenges before beginning treatment. Choosing the right clinic, understanding the diagnosis, and selecting the best treatment plan are key steps that can significantly impact the outcome.

It is also essential to adopt a comprehensive approach that includes collaboration among various specialists—gynecologists, embryologists, urologists, geneticists, and psychologists—to ensure that every aspect of treatment is optimally tailored to the individual needs of the patients. Support during this process is not only medical but also psychological, as the emotional aspect of infertility treatment plays a vital role in the overall outcome.

Every couple is unique, just like their experience with IVF, so it is important to make decisions based on reliable information and individual circumstances. Despite the challenges, scientific progress and a multidisciplinary approach to infertility treatment offer increasingly greater chances for success.

Finally, it is essential to remember that you are not alone in this process. With the right expert support and proper steps, it is possible to achieve the goal—the realization of the dream of parenthood.

If you need expert support and personalized guidance through the IVF process, feel free to contact us here—we are here to assist you every step of the way.

Thank you for your trust.

Yours, VivaFert.

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Frequently Asked Questions about IVF

What is IVF?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a method of infertility treatment in which an egg and sperm are combined in a laboratory, and the resulting embryo is transferred into the uterus to achieve pregnancy.

When should IVF be considered?

IVF is recommended if a couple fails to conceive naturally after 12 months of regular intercourse (for women under 35) or 6 months (for women over 35). It is also recommended in cases of ovulation disorders, endometriosis, fallopian tube damage, or male infertility.

What are the stages of IVF?

The IVF process includes several steps:

• Ovarian stimulation

• Egg retrieval (aspiration)

• Laboratory fertilization

• Embryo culture

• Embryo transfer into the uterus

• Pregnancy test after 12-14 days

How successful is IVF?

Success rates depend on the woman’s age, with the highest rate in women under 35 (about 30% per cycle), gradually decreasing to 15-25% for women aged 35-40, and 5-10% after 40, often requiring egg donation.

What complications can arise during IVF?

Possible complications include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), the risk of multiple pregnancies, ectopic pregnancies, infections, or emotional stress associated with the procedure.

What are the most common IVF methods?

In addition to classic IVF, there are ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection), IUI (insemination), cryopreservation (freezing) of embryos, eggs, and sperm, TESE/TESA for male infertility, and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT).

How much does IVF cost?

The cost of IVF varies by clinic and country. In Serbia, one cycle costs between 2,000 and 4,000 euros. Additional costs may include embryo freezing, genetic testing, and egg donation.

How to choose the best IVF clinic?

When choosing a clinic, it is important to consider its success rate, the expertise of the staff, available methods, cost, patient support, and the legal regulations in that country.

Does IVF increase the risk of multiple pregnancies?

Yes, if more than one embryo is transferred into the uterus. The current practice is to transfer a single embryo (SET) to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancies.

Can IVF be covered by insurance?

In Serbia, the Republic Health Insurance Fund (RFZO) covers the costs of IVF for certain categories of patients. Abroad, insurance options vary by country.