IVF Treatments Around the World - Czech Republic vs. India

So you're looking into IVF treatments abroad and are bamboozled by the sheer number of available destinations and options. Which country is the most affordable, you ask? Who provides top-notch services, you ponder? Whose success rates are higher, you query? Can I squeeze in some sightseeing between appointments, you muse? Let's have a look at two of the most popular destinations for fertility tourists to find out.

Czech Republic

A country that sits snug in Central Europe, it considered one of Europe's most romantic cities fraught with history, culture and character.[1] A large number of fertility clinics reside in the country's capital, Prague and are known to be reputable and equipped with facilities that rival those in the UK and USA.[2] If you decide to come here for your IVF treatments, you may also want to make use of Prague's excellent public transport facilities and explore the city or its surrounding villages and majestic castles.

India

India is a large, densely populated country in Asia featuring many natural landscapes from coasts to deserts to some of the highest mountain ranges in the world.[3] India is considered a land of contrasts, with parts of the country experiencing debilitating poverty while other parts offering high-end, high-class medical facilities, many of which are targeted towards medical tourists.[4] If India is the place you choose for your IVF treatments, it is best to stay close to the area your fertility clinic resides in but fear not! Each city in India comes with its own vast array of culture and entertainment, and there is plenty to see.

India's capital, Delhi for example is a hotspot for fertility tourists and many medical tourist agencies will advice you not only on accommodation but also places to visit when you have free time.[5]

IVF Treatments in Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has over 30 fertility clinics, many of which are located in Prague and Brno but also in Zlin and Olomouc.[6] All clinics are regulated by statute and various licensing bodies such as the Czech Society for Assisted Reproduction.[7] Here is a quick overview on the list of available procedures[8]:

IVF Treatments in India

India has over 500 fertility clinics scattered across the country, some of which have been established for over 30 years.[9] Though not governed by statutes, fertility clinics still have to abide by strict guidelines, although you might want to look out for clinics that are registered by The Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction (ISAR) and are JCI accredited and ISO certified.[10] Here is a quick overview on the list of available procedures:

IVF Rules and Regulations in Czech Republic

Below is a basic overview regarding IVF laws in the Czech Republic:

·       Czech law dictates an infertile couple to be a "man and woman", which implies that single women and same sex couples cannot be legally offered treatment.[11]

·       Embryos can only be stored for 7 days before use[12]

·       Only married women can use sperm from a deceased partner[13]

IVF Rules and Regulations in India

Below is a basic overview regarding IVF laws in India:

·       India abides by an open policy treatment, which implies that single women and same sex couples are accepted as clients.[14]

·       Women who are egg donors can only donate up to a maximum of 6 eggs.[15]

·      Following the guidelines of UK's Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, couples seeking IVF treatments in India need to give consent for embryo storage, which can range from 5-10 years.[16]

·       Sperm from deceased partners can be used by single and married women alike.[17]

Cost of IVF Treatments in Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is one of the most cost effective destinations for fertility tourists. Here are some average prices for various IVF treatments based on 2012 records[18].

Cost of IVF Treatments in India

IVF treatments in India are lower than in many parts of the world while still providing high quality services. Here are some average prices for various IVF treatments based on 2012 records.[19]