How Much Does IVF Cost in Canada? (2024)

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is the most commonly used treatment to improve the chances of pregnancy for women in Canada who are unable or struggling to conceive. With a success rate of 41% for women under 35, IVF has become a popular path for many to fulfil their dreams of having a child.

On average, IVF cost in Canada from $7,500 to $17,000 per cycle. The cost of IVF can be very high, with clinic fees, treatment expenses, and medication costs varying from one place to another. Therefore, it’s essential to understand the financial aspects of this process.

In this article, I will explain everything you need to know about the cost of IVF in Canada. I’ll delve into the details and provide insights about alternative options like surrogacy or adoption if IVF doesn’t work for you.

How Does IVF Work in Canada?

The Federal Government of Canada recognizes IVF as one of the recommended fertility treatment options available to Canadians. This endorsement is rooted in the belief that IVF is a proven and effective method supported by the Canadian Fertility & Andrology Society (CFAS).

The significance of this recommendation became even clearer to me when I witnessed the success of two of my friends who underwent IVF treatment, giving me firsthand insight into the financial aspects involved.

While the financial implications of IVF cannot be overlooked, the potential rewards make it a worthwhile consideration for couples seeking to build their own families through fertility treatments.

Like other parts of the world, IVF in Canada offers the opportunity to use your sperm or eggs, or even donated ones, to make your dream of parenthood come true. However, it’s important to note that not everyone may be eligible for IVF treatment in Canada.

IVF is typically recommended for individuals with low sperm counts, severe endometriosis, missing or blocked fallopian tubes, consistent unexplained fertility issues, or unsuccessful artificial or intrauterine insemination. It’s crucial to consult with a fertility specialist to determine if IVF is the right path for you.

It’s also essential to understand that IVF success rates in Canada are not guaranteed. While IVF can significantly increase the chances of conception, exploring other fertility treatments or considering adoption may be necessary to fulfil your desire for a family. 

How Much Does IVF Cost In Canada?

On average, the cost of IVF in Canada ranges from $7,500 to $17,000 per cycle, and this figure includes medication fees. However, it’s important to note that the actual cost can vary based on several factors, such as the specific clinic, location, and individual circumstances.

Remember that the IVF cost in Canada covers storage, retrieval, embryo transfers, and genetic testing to screen for the best embryo. It may also include fertility tests, which you would do before starting your IVF.

Comparatively, IVF cost in Canada tend to be higher than in other countries, including Greece, Turkey, Spain, the Czech Republic, and Denmark. These countries often offer more competitive pricing options for IVF treatments. 

It’s also worth noting that while seeking IVF abroad may be a more affordable choice for some, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the clinics and ensure they adhere to international safety and quality standards.

5 Factors That Determine The Cost Of IVF In Canada

When considering in vitro fertilization (IVF) as a fertility treatment option in Canada, it’s crucial to understand the various factors influencing the cost. While the average cost of IVF in Canada ranges from $7,500 to $17,000 per cycle, the final price can vary significantly depending on several key factors. 

Let’s explore some of the key factors that determine the cost of IVF in Canada:

1. Clinic

Choosing the right fertility clinic for your IVF journey is crucial, as it can significantly impact the cost and overall success of the treatment. With over 30 clinics to choose from in Canada, it’s important to approach the decision with thorough research and consideration.

Consider the location and cost of the clinic. Clinics in metropolitan areas or regions with a higher cost of living generally charge higher fees for their services. Researching different clinics, comparing prices, and considering factors such as success rates and reputation can help you make an informed choice.

2. Cycles

The number of cycles you undergo during IVF treatment can significantly impact the overall cost. A cycle refers to a complete round of IVF treatment, and if the initial cycle is unsuccessful, additional cycles may be necessary to achieve a successful outcome. 

However, it’s important to note that the more cycles you require, the higher the costs can become. It’s crucial to understand that various factors, including your health habits and lifestyle, can influence the success of an IVF cycle. 

For instance, if you or your partner smoke or consume alcohol, it may reduce the chances of a successful outcome in the first cycle. As a result, you may need to undergo multiple cycles to increase the likelihood of adopting healthy habits and making positive lifestyle choices can potentially enhance the success rate of IVF cycles. 

It’s advisable to quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, maintain a balanced diet, engage in regular exercise, and manage stress effectively. By prioritizing your overall health and well-being, you can potentially increase the chances of success in each IVF cycle, ultimately reducing the need for multiple cycles and minimizing costs.

Adopting healthy habits and making positive lifestyle choices can potentially enhance the success rate of IVF cycles. It’s advisable to quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, maintain a balanced diet, engage in regular exercise, and manage stress effectively.

By prioritizing your overall health and well-being, you can potentially increase the chances of success in each IVF cycle, ultimately reducing the need for multiple cycles and minimizing costs.

3. Medication

During the IVF procedure, the clinic will provide you or your partner with medication to enhance the chances of pregnancy. These fertility drugs are crucial in stimulating egg production and preparing the uterus for implantation.

As you might expect, the cost and amount of these medications contribute to the overall cost of IVF treatment. The cost of fertility drugs can vary depending on the type, dosage, and duration of treatment.

It’s essential to discuss the medication costs with your fertility clinic and factor them into your overall budget. In some cases, the clinic may estimate the medication expenses upfront; in others, you may need to purchase the drugs separately from a pharmacy.

4. Surrogacy Cost

In some cases, if you or your partner cannot undergo IVF treatment successfully, surrogacy may be considered an alternative path to fulfilling your dream of having a child. Surrogacy involves another woman, known as a surrogate, generously offering to donate her egg and carry the pregnancy on your behalf.

It’s important to note that while there is a possibility of finding a surrogate mother in Canada who may offer her services free of charge, there are still significant costs associated with the process. These costs primarily include the expenses related to the clinic and other necessary aspects of the surrogacy journey.

5. Province/Territory

The cost of IVF treatment in Canada can also be influenced by the province or territory in which you reside. Certain provinces provide financial assistance for IVF treatment, making it more accessible for individuals and couples.

If you live in Ontario, New Brunswick, Manitoba, or Quebec, you may be eligible for financial support for IVF treatment. These provinces have implemented programs to help alleviate the financial burden of fertility treatments. 

It’s important to familiarize yourself with each province’s specific guidelines and criteria to determine your eligibility.

Provincial Healthcare Assistance for IVF in Canada

If you reside in any of these provinces, exploring the available financial assistance programs can significantly impact the affordability of your IVF journey. Be sure to research the specific requirements, application processes, and any limitations associated with these programs.

1. Ontario

Ontario offers government-funded financial assistance for one IVF treatment cycle per lifetime for female patients under the age of 43 who require fertility treatment.

This coverage sets Ontario apart from other provinces in Canada. To be eligible for this assistance, individuals must have both medical and non-medical infertility and possess a valid Ontario health card.

It’s important to note that while this coverage includes the cost of one IVF treatment cycle, it does not cover the expenses related to fertility drugs. Additionally, individuals or their partners can only receive this financial assistance once in their lifetime.

For surrogates, the coverage extends to unlimited rounds of artificial insemination and an additional IVF cycle. This benefit is also available to individuals without partners or same-sex couples.

RELATED: Ontario Child Benefit 2024: Payment Dates & Eligibility

2. New Brunswick

In New Brunswick, residents can receive up to $5,000 through the New Brunswick grant for their fertility treatment. 

This grant is awarded once in a lifetime and helps alleviate some of the costs associated with infertility treatments. 

To qualify for the grant, you must meet specific requirements, including being a full-time resident of New Brunswick, holding a valid Medicare card, and receiving treatment from a certified physician for fertility issues. 

It’s important to note that the grant amount may not cover the entire average cost of IVF in Canada.

3. Manitoba

Manitoba offers a fertility treatment tax credit that covers 40% of the cost of fertility treatments. Residents can claim up to $20,000 in eligible costs, with a maximum credit of $8,000. 

To qualify, individuals must be residents of Manitoba, and the treatment must be provided by a licensed medical practitioner or fertility clinic in the province. 

Patients with private insurance can only claim the tax credit for expenses not already reimbursed.

4. Quebec

In Quebec, residents have the opportunity to receive a tax credit for their IVF treatment, providing financial assistance for those seeking infertility treatments. This tax credit can be claimed annually, reaching up to $20,000, depending on your family income.

The claim frequencies for the tax credit vary based on the woman’s age undergoing IVF. Women under the age of 37 can claim one credit per year, while women over the age of 37 can claim two credits per year.

To qualify for the Quebec tax credit, certain requirements must be met. These include being a resident of Quebec on the last day of the claim taxation year, filling your expenses in the taxation year, having had a child prior to the treatment, and being certified by a physician that neither you nor your partner has undergone non-medical tubal ligation or surgical sterilization.

The tax credit in Quebec covers eligible costs related to infertility treatments, including IVF. The tax credit rate is based on the total family income, with or without a spouse, and can reach a maximum of 80%.

4 Ways You Can Pay for IVF Treatment in Canada

Finding the necessary funding for IVF treatment in Canada can be challenging, especially if insurance coverage or government grants fall short. However, there are several alternative options worth exploring. Here are four common ways Canadians have successfully financed their IVF treatment:

• Private Grants: Consider applying for private grants, which are funds donated by individuals and corporate organizations to assist with fertility treatment costs. Organizations like the Generations of Hope Fertility Assistance Fund offer grants of up to $6,000 specifically for this purpose.
• Clinics Payment Plans: Some clinics offer the flexibility of arranging a payment plan for your IVF treatment. However, it’s important to carefully review the terms and interest rates associated with these plans before committing.
• Crowdfunding: Utilize crowdfunding platforms such as Kickstarter and Indiegogo to raise capital for your IVF treatment. To attract more donations, ensure your campaign uses compelling language while remaining realistic about your current situation.
• Health Spending Account (HSA): If you or your employer have a Health Spending Account (HSA), you may be able to use it to cover the cost of your IVF treatment. HSAs are self-insured health plans that provide tax-free benefits for health and dental expenses. By converting the cost of your IVF treatment up to the maximum tax-free benefit, you can potentially o

Learn more about the Health Spending Accounts (HSA).

Understanding Surrogacy in Canada

Surrogacy is a legal option in Canada, allowing individuals or couples to have a child through a surrogate mother who carries the pregnancy for them. However, it’s important to understand that while surrogacy itself is free, associated costs must be considered.

In Canada, paying a surrogate mother for her services is illegal. However, intended parents are allowed to cover the surrogate mother’s out-of-pocket expenses related to the pregnancy. These expenses include medical bills, travel, and other reasonable pregnancy-related expenditures.

It’s crucial to note that engaging in a surrogacy arrangement through a third party, such as an agency or intermediary, is considered a criminal offence in Canada. Surrogacy must be conducted directly between the intended parents and the surrogate mother without the involvement of any intermediaries.

So, while surrogacy itself may be free, the costs associated with the pregnancy and the legal restrictions in Canada must be considered. It’s advisable to consult with legal professionals who specialize in reproductive law to navigate the intricacies and ensure compliance with Canadian regulations.

How Much Does Surrogacy Cost in Canada?

The cost of surrogacy in Canada can vary, but it typically falls within the range of $58,000 to $90,000, which is generally lower than in other countries like the United States. Several factors contribute to the overall cost of surrogacy:

• Agency fees: Working with a surrogacy agency involves certain fees for their services, including matching intended parents with a surrogate, providing support throughout the process, and managing legal and administrative aspects.
• Fertility clinic costs: Surrogacy requires the involvement of a fertility clinic for procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), embryo transfer, and medical screenings. The fees associated with these services contribute to the overall cost.
• Legal contracts: Drafting and reviewing legal agreements between the intended parents and the surrogate, including compensation and expectations, requires legal fees.
• Psychological and medical screenings: The surrogate and intended parents undergo various screenings to ensure their mental and physical suitability for surrogacy. These screenings add to the overall cost.
• Reimbursements to the surrogate: Surrogates receive compensation for their time, effort, and any expenses incurred during the pregnancy, such as travel, medical expenses, and maternity clothing.
• Embryo transfer: Each attempt at embryo transfer carries associated costs, including medication, monitoring, and the actual procedure.

In addition to these factors, several other variables can influence the average cost of surrogacy in Canada. These include the intended parents’ location, the specific fertility clinic chosen, the number of tests required throughout the process, the number of embryo transfers attempted, and the individual expenses of the surrogate mother.

RELATED: Why Life Insurance For Children Is Not A Waste Of Money 2024

Understanding Adoption in Canada

Adopting may be an alternative option for building a family if IVF and surrogacy do not result in a successful pregnancy. However, it’s important to understand the terms and conditions of child adoption in Canada.

In Canada, there are three main options for child adoption: public, private, and international.

Public adoption involves adopting a child from the care of a provincial child welfare authority. These children are typically under the authority’s care because their parents cannot parent them. Children available for public adoption can range in age from newborns to teenagers.

On the other hand, private adoption involves adopting a child through licensed adoption agencies regulated by provincial authorities. In private adoption, children are typically placed by their birth parents, often shortly after birth. Therefore, most children available for private adoption are infants.

International adoption refers to adopting a child from another country. It’s important to note that different countries have varying rules and processes for international adoptions. If you are considering international adoption, contacting your provincial adoption agency for specific information about the international adoption process in your desired country is advisable.

Adoption provides an opportunity to provide a loving home for a child in need, and understanding the different types of adoption available in Canada can help you make an informed decision based on your preferences and circumstances.

How Much Does Adoption Cost in Canada?

The cost of adoption in Canada depends on your adoption type. The following table shows the average cost of adoptions in Canada per adoption type:

Final Thoughts on IVF Cost in Canada

Understanding the cost of IVF in Canada is crucial for anyone considering fertility treatments. With an average cost ranging from $7,500 to $17,000 per cycle, including medication fees, it’s important to be prepared and informed.

You can make a well-informed decision that suits your unique situation by exploring factors such as clinic choices, location, provincial assistance programs, and potential alternative options like adoption or surrogacy.

Remember, IVF cost in Canada can vary depending on various factors, so it’s essential to research and compare options to find the best fit for you. Don’t hesitate to contact fertility clinics, consult with specialists, and gather all the necessary information.

If you need further help figuring out IVF costs in Canada, don’t hesitate to contact me or drop your concerns in the comment section.

FAQs on IVF Cost in Canada

Is IVF in Canada Free?

IVF is not free in Canada. The average cost of IVF in Canada is between $7,500 to $17,000 per cycle, including medication fees. However, Ontario, New Brunswick, Manitoba, and Quebec offer IVF financial assistance to their residents.

Is IVF Covered By Insurance in Canada?

Yes. But not all health insurance policies cover IVF in Canada. Even those that cover have limited coverage.

Is Surrogacy Free in Canada?

Yes, surrogacy is free in Canada because you’re not expected to pay the surrogate mother anything. However, surrogacy costs between $58,000 to $90,000 due to agency fees, clinic costs and other factors.

Can You Adopt for Free?

Yes, you can adopt a child for free in Canada once it’s under public adoption. That’s adoption from the guardian of a provincial child welfare authority.