What Is In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)? Success, Cost & Process

By Dr. Kulsoom Baloch

Learn more about Dr. Baloch

Introduction

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is one of the most well-known and widely used fertility treatments in the world. It has helped millions of couples and individuals conceive when natural conception has proven challenging. Whether you are considering IVF for yourself, using a surrogate, or exploring options as an intended parent, this guide will walk you through how IVF works, its success rates, and what to expect in terms of cost and process.

What Is IVF?

IVF stands for In Vitro Fertilization, which literally means ‘fertilization in glass.’ Unlike natural conception that happens in the fallopian tubes, IVF involves combining eggs and sperm in a laboratory setting to create embryos.

The IVF Process Step by Step

• Ovarian Stimulation – The patient receives hormone injections to produce multiple eggs.
• Egg Retrieval – Eggs are collected through a minor surgical procedure.
• Sperm Collection – A sperm sample is collected and prepared.
• Fertilization – Eggs and sperm are combined in the lab; fertilization is monitored.
• Embryo Culture – Embryos are grown in culture for 3–5 days.
• Embryo Transfer – A selected embryo is transferred to the uterus.
• Pregnancy Test – 10–14 days after transfer, a blood test confirms pregnancy.

Success Rates of IVF

Success depends on various factors including age, egg and sperm quality, and clinic expertise. According to the CDC, average success rates for women under 35 are about 40–50% per cycle. Using donor eggs or a surrogate can increase the likelihood of success.

How IVF Supports Surrogacy

In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate carries a baby conceived via IVF using the intended parents’ or donors’ genetic material. IVF is the foundation of most modern surrogacy arrangements, especially when medical infertility or same-sex parenting is involved.

How Much Does IVF Cost?

In the United States, the average cost of one IVF cycle ranges from $12,000 to $20,000. This may not include medications, genetic testing, or embryo freezing. Surrogacy arrangements that include IVF can cost significantly more.

Is IVF Right for You?

IVF may be recommended for:

• Women over 35
• Couples with unexplained infertility
• Same-sex couples
• Single parents using donor eggs or sperm
• Intended parents using a surrogate

Always consult a fertility specialist to evaluate your best path forward.

Risks and Considerations

Although IVF is generally safe, risks include multiple births, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), and emotional or financial stress. These should be discussed in detail with your care team.

Conclusion

IVF has transformed the possibilities of family building. Whether you’re navigating infertility, using a surrogate, or planning as a same-sex couple, IVF offers a medically backed route to parenthood. If you’re considering IVF, Surrogacy4All can guide you through every step of your fertility journey.