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Cost-effectiveness of in vitro fertilization
J M Goldfarb1, C Austin, H Lisbona
1University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University, Ohio, USA.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|January 1, 1996
Summary
The cost of in vitro fertilization (IVF) is significantly impacted by multiple pregnancies. Reducing triplet or higher-order births can make IVF more cost-effective for women.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Health Economics
Background:
- In vitro fertilization (IVF) offers a pathway to parenthood for many.
- The financial implications of IVF, particularly concerning pregnancy outcomes, require detailed analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the cost per delivery for pregnancies resulting from an IVF program.
- To identify key factors influencing the overall cost of IVF treatments.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of costs over a two-year period within a single IVF program.
- Inclusion of direct IVF procedure costs and associated maternal/neonatal complication expenses.
Main Results:
- High-order multiple pregnancies (triplets or more) represent the primary cost driver in IVF.
- The cost per woman delivered was approximately $39,000 for singleton/twin pregnancies, escalating to $340,000 for high-order multiples.
Conclusions:
- IVF can be a cost-effective reproductive technology.
- Minimizing high-order multiple pregnancies is crucial for improving the economic viability of IVF programs.