IVF with Gender Selection in Panama City, Panama

Is gender selection legal in Panama?

Yes, gender selection is legal in Panama. Unlike in Canada, the UK, or Australia, where it is often restricted to preventing genetic diseases, Panama permits the use of Pre-implantation Genetic Testing (PGT) for family balancing purposes. This means you can legally choose to transfer an embryo of a specific gender if one is available and healthy after the screening process.

How does the gender selection process work?

Gender selection is achieved through IVF combined with PGT-A (Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies). After eggs are retrieved and fertilized, the resulting embryos develop for 5 days. A few cells are then safely biopsied from the outer layer of the embryo and sent to a lab for analysis. This analysis reveals the chromosomal health (to rule out issues like Down syndrome) and the sex chromosomes (XX for female, XY for male). Only healthy embryos of the desired gender are selected for transfer.

What is the success rate for IVF in Panama?

Success rates in top Panamanian clinics are comparable to those in the US. For women under 35, success rates per embryo transfer can exceed 60-70% when using PGT-A tested embryos. The use of genetic testing significantly increases the chance of implantation and reduces miscarriage rates because only chromosomally normal embryos are transferred. However, individual success depends on factors like age, ovarian reserve, and sperm quality.

How much does IVF with gender selection cost in Panama?

The average cost for IVF with PGT-A (gender selection) in Panama ranges from $8,000 to $13,000 USD. This is significantly lower than in the US, where similar procedures can cost upwards of $25,000 to $30,000. The cost usually covers monitoring, egg retrieval, fertilization (ICSI), embryo biopsy, and transfer. Medication costs are separate but are generally 30-50% cheaper in Panama than in North America.

Is it safe to have IVF treatment in Panama?

Yes, it is very safe. Panama City has a robust private healthcare infrastructure. The top fertility clinics adhere to strict international protocols for hygiene and laboratory conditions, often overseen by doctors trained in the US or Europe. Panama is politically stable and safe for tourists. However, as with any medical procedure, there are inherent risks (such as Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome), which your doctor will discuss with you.

How long do I need to stay in Panama?

Most patients stay for approximately 15 to 21 days for a full fresh cycle (stimulation through retrieval and fresh transfer). However, many patients opt to split the trip: coming for 7-10 days for egg retrieval, freezing the embryos for testing, and returning a month or two later for the frozen embryo transfer (which requires a shorter stay of 5-7 days). This "freeze-all" approach is often recommended for better PGT accuracy and uterine receptivity.

Is there an age limit for IVF in Panama?

While there is no strict legal age limit, most clinics have ethical guidelines. Generally, they accept patients using their own eggs up to age 43-45, depending on ovarian reserve. For patients using egg donors, the age limit extends further, often up to 50 or 52, provided the intended mother passes a series of health checks (cardiac and general health clearance) to ensure she can safely carry a pregnancy.

Can we select twins (one boy and one girl)?

Technically, if you have healthy embryos of both genders, it is possible to transfer two embryos. However, responsible fertility specialists in Panama (and globally) strongly advise Single Embryo Transfer (SET). Twin pregnancies carry significantly higher risks for both the mother and babies, including prematurity and preeclampsia. Doctors will prioritize a healthy, singleton pregnancy over the desire for twins, though they may discuss this on a case-by-case basis.

Will language be a barrier?

No, language is rarely a barrier. The medical community in Panama City is highly bilingual. Many specialists completed their training in the United States, and clinic coordinators are accustomed to working with international patients. You can expect your consultations, medical instructions, and consent forms to be available in English.

Can I ship my frozen embryos to/from Panama?

Yes, shipping gametes (sperm/eggs) or embryos is possible. Panama has specialized courier services (like Cryoport) that handle the international transport of biological materials. If you have embryos created elsewhere but want to do PGT gender selection and transfer in Panama, or vice versa, PlacidWay can help coordinate with the clinic to arrange the necessary paperwork and safe transport.

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Senior Embryologists

Experts in Micromanipulation & Biopsy

Compassionate Care Teams

Dedicated to International Patient Support

Clinic Verification

We rigorously vet fertility centers for accreditation, laboratory standards, and PGT technology capabilities to ensure your safety and success.

Transparent Quotes

We obtain detailed cost breakdowns from multiple clinics, helping you compare prices for cycles, medication, and genetic testing without hidden fees.

Virtual Consultations

We facilitate initial video calls with reproductive endocrinologists so you can discuss your medical history and treatment plan before you travel.

Treatment Coordination

We assist in aligning your treatment dates with the clinic's schedule, ensuring a smooth timeline for stimulation, retrieval, and transfer.

Patient Advocacy

Our team supports you throughout the process, helping clarify medical terms, facilitating communication, and ensuring your questions are answered.