Thursday, June 27, 2013

The Insight on Artificial Insemination and Its Cost


Artificial insemination has been widely used by couples with an infertility problem. It is a procedure in where sperm is placed into female's uterus to make the woman pregnant. The method was first used for insemination of cattle, but today it is also applied in humans and some other animals such as those in zoos. The sperm can be either from the partner of the woman or from a sperm donor if her partner has a low sperm count or no sperm at all, or the woman does not have a partner but still wants to get pregnant. The success rate depends on the infertility problem, age and some health factors, but overall it is between 5 to 20%, which is quite good. Now, how much does artificial insemination cost?

The fact is, artificial insemination is quite expensive and not all couples can afford it. However, this method is cheaper than in vitro fertilization (IVF) and is considered to be the best option for some couples. Couples that have a hard time trying to conceive using ovulation timing intercourse or relaying only on fertility drugs often have poor success. Artificial Insemination instead allows fertilization to happen naturally which is a wonderful feeling for couples, especially the woman. The method involves several diagnoses, examinations and consultations. Doctors in many cases also prescribe drugs to increase the success rate. The drugs can be in the form of ovulations drugs or drugs for women who are allergic to sperm. Commonly, couples may need more than one session applying the method, as conceiving on the first try is unlikely. One session costs vary from $300 - $700, depends on the clinic, the nature of the problem, the age and some other factors. However, in case you have to do several sessions, you need to be prepared to pay from $1000 to $5000. Often times, the drugs are excluded from the overall package and they can vary from less than $100 up to several thousand dollars, depending on what the doctor prescribes. If you go to an average clinic, the doctor might prescribe you affordable drugs. If you do it in an expensive clinic, the doctor might prescribe expensive drugs.

In addition, hospital stay is sometimes required for patients in certain conditions. Sperm washing that is necessary is also excluded and costs about $100. To see the progress after you do the method, ultrasound is required and it costs about $300 in each checking. In total, you are looking at approximately $5000 to $10,000, although you might pay much less than that. However, always expect to have to pay more just in case. Some insurance companies insure artificial insemination and you need to check with your insurance whether they cover it.

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