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In vitro fertilization: a cost-effective alternative for infertile couples?
F S Trad1, M D Hornstein, R L Barbieri
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics
|August 1, 1995
Summary
The cost of achieving a live birth via in vitro fertilization (IVF) varies significantly based on a patient's probability of pregnancy. Higher probability groups had substantially lower IVF costs per live birth compared to lower probability groups.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Health Economics
Background:
- In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a key technology for treating infertility.
- Understanding the cost-effectiveness of IVF is crucial for patient and healthcare provider decision-making.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the cost of achieving a live birth through IVF.
- To determine how clinical characteristics influence IVF cost variations.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 182 couples undergoing their first IVF cycle in 1993.
- Patients were stratified into three groups (A, B, C) based on predicted pregnancy probability (high, intermediate, low).
- Reproductive performance and costs were tracked for up to three IVF cycles.
Main Results:
- The cost per live birth ranged from $22,857 to $42,666 after one cycle and $26,800 to $74,666 after three cycles.
- Average costs after one and three cycles were $29,120 and $31,590, respectively.
- Costs were 50-70% lower for the high-probability group compared to the low-probability group.
Conclusions:
- The cost of an IVF live birth is comparable to alternatives like adoption or tubal surgery.
- Significant cost variations exist based on patient prognosis.
- IVF cost-effectiveness is influenced by the probability of conception.