How much is gender selection IVF in Cyprus?

Affordable IVF Gender Selection in Cyprus | Full Guide

 

Choosing to grow your family is a significant and exciting decision. For many, this journey includes considering gender selection IVF, a specialized fertility treatment that allows you to choose the sex of your baby. Gender selection IVF in Cyprus has become a popular option for intended parents worldwide due to its affordability, high success rates, and favorable legal landscape. If you're exploring this path, one of your primary questions is likely about the cost.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the cost of gender selection IVF in Cyprus, what influences the price, and what to expect during the process. We aim to provide clear, straightforward answers to help you make an informed decision on your path to parenthood.

What is the average cost of gender selection IVF in Cyprus?

The cost of gender selection IVF in Cyprus is significantly lower than in many other Western countries, making it an attractive destination for medical tourism. This price generally covers the core procedures of an IVF cycle, along with the added technique of Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) or Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS), which are used for gender selection.

It's important to note that this is a baseline estimate. The final cost can be influenced by several factors, which we will explore in more detail. When comparing clinics, always request a detailed breakdown of what is included in their quoted price to avoid any unexpected expenses.

What is Gender Selection IVF?

The primary purpose of PGD/PGS is to identify any chromosomal abnormalities in the embryos, thereby increasing the chances of a healthy pregnancy. A by-product of this comprehensive screening is the ability to determine the sex of each embryo. This allows intended parents to choose embryos of a specific gender for implantation.

This procedure is often sought for "family balancing," where parents who already have one or more children of one gender wish to have a child of the opposite gender. It is also a crucial tool for preventing the transmission of sex-linked genetic disorders.

Is gender selection legal in Cyprus?

While many countries have strict regulations or outright bans on non-medical gender selection, North Cyprus has a more lenient legal framework. This has positioned it as a leading center for fertility treatments, including gender selection IVF.

It's essential to distinguish between North and South Cyprus, as the regulations can differ. The majority of clinics offering gender selection for family balancing are located in North Cyprus. Always ensure that the clinic you choose operates in full compliance with local laws and regulations.

What factors influence the cost of gender selection IVF in Cyprus?

Understanding these factors will help you better anticipate the overall investment required. Here's a breakdown of the key elements that can affect the price:

• Clinic's Reputation and Success Rates: More renowned clinics with higher success rates may have higher prices.
• Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGD/PGS): The type and extent of genetic screening can impact the cost. Basic gender selection is standard, but more comprehensive testing for various genetic disorders will be an additional expense.
• Need for Donor Eggs or Sperm: If you require donor eggs or sperm, this will significantly increase the overall cost.
• Medication: The cost of fertility medications is often not included in the initial quote and can be a substantial additional expense.
• Included Services: Some clinics offer all-inclusive packages that cover accommodation, airport transfers, and local transportation, while others do not.

What is typically included in a gender selection IVF package in Cyprus?

When you receive a quote from a clinic, it's crucial to understand exactly what services are covered. A typical package will generally include:

• Initial Consultation and Treatment Planning: Your first meetings with the fertility specialist to create a personalized treatment plan.
• Ovarian Stimulation: Monitoring of the female partner's cycle as she takes medication to stimulate egg production.
• Egg Retrieval: A minor surgical procedure to collect the mature eggs.
• Sperm Collection and Preparation: Collection and processing of the male partner's or a donor's sperm.
• Fertilization (ICSI): A specialized form of fertilization where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg.
• Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD): The biopsy and genetic testing of the embryos to determine gender and check for chromosomal abnormalities.
• Embryo Transfer: The procedure of transferring the selected healthy embryos into the uterus.

Are there any additional costs to consider?

To create a realistic budget, be sure to account for these potential extra expenses:

• Fertility Medications: These can cost between €1,000 and €2,500, depending on the individual's needs.
• Preliminary Tests: You may need to undergo certain blood tests and ultrasound scans before starting the treatment, which may not be included in the package price.
• Travel and Accommodation: Flights to and from Cyprus, as well as your stay during the treatment period, are typically separate costs unless you opt for an all-inclusive package.
• Embryo Freezing: If you have viable embryos remaining after the transfer, you may choose to freeze them for future use, which incurs an additional fee for cryopreservation and annual storage.

How long does the gender selection IVF process take in Cyprus?

The timeline can vary slightly depending on the individual's response to treatment and the specific protocols of the clinic. Generally, the process is as follows:

• Initial Preparations: These may begin in your home country with prescribed medications.
• Arrival in Cyprus: You will typically need to arrive in Cyprus at a specific point in the menstrual cycle.
• Monitoring and Egg Retrieval: This phase involves regular check-ups and culminates in the egg collection procedure.
• Fertilization and Embryo Development: The collected eggs are fertilized, and the embryos are cultured in the lab for several days.
• PGD and Embryo Transfer: The embryos undergo genetic testing, and the selected embryos are transferred to the uterus.
• Post-Transfer and Pregnancy Test: After the transfer, there is a waiting period of about 10-12 days before a pregnancy test can be taken. You can often travel home during this waiting period.

What are the success rates for gender selection IVF in Cyprus?

Several factors contribute to these high success rates, including:

• Advanced Technology: Cypriot clinics are equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and use the latest techniques.
• Experienced Specialists: The fertility doctors and embryologists in Cyprus are highly skilled and experienced.
• Healthy Embryo Selection: PGD not only determines gender but also ensures that only chromosomally normal embryos are transferred, increasing the likelihood of implantation and a healthy pregnancy.

It's important to remember that success rates can be influenced by individual factors such as age, overall health, and the underlying cause of infertility.

How do I choose the best clinic for gender selection in Cyprus?

Here are some key things to look for when selecting a clinic:

• Accreditation and Certifications: Look for internationally recognized accreditations that demonstrate a commitment to quality and safety.
• Experience and Specialization: Choose a clinic that has extensive experience in gender selection IVF.
• Transparent Pricing: A reputable clinic will provide a clear and detailed breakdown of all costs.
• Patient Testimonials and Reviews: Hearing from previous patients can provide valuable insights into the clinic's level of care and their overall experience.
• Communication: The clinic staff should be responsive, supportive, and willing to answer all of your questions.

What are the risks and considerations?

The risks are similar to those of a standard IVF cycle and are relatively low. These can include:

• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): A rare but potentially serious complication from fertility medications.
• Multiple Pregnancies: Transferring more than one embryo increases the chance of twins or triplets, which carries higher risks.
• Emotional Toll: The IVF process can be emotionally and physically demanding.

It's also important to consider the ethical and social aspects of gender selection and to be prepared for the possibility of the treatment not being successful on the first attempt.

Ready to explore your options for gender selection IVF in Cyprus? PlacidWay can connect you with leading fertility clinics and provide you with personalized, no-obligation quotes. Take the next step on your journey to building your dream family today.