In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
The most effective fertility treatment, suitable for many causes of infertility
When is IVF Recommended?
IVF is no longer a last resort — for many patients it is the most efficient first choice. IVF is often recommended for:
- Fallopian tube damage or blockage
- Endometriosis
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Unexplained infertility
- Male factor infertility
- Advanced maternal age (35+)
- Recurrent pregnancy loss
- Genetic screening needs
The IVF Process
Ovarian Stimulation
Fertility medications stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, monitored via ultrasound.
Egg Retrieval
Under light sedation, a needle retrieves mature eggs from the ovaries. Takes about 15-30 minutes.
Fertilization & Culture
Eggs are fertilized with sperm in the lab and cultured for 3-5 days to the blastocyst stage.
Embryo Transfer
A high-quality embryo is transferred into the uterus with progesterone support.
Pregnancy Test
A blood hCG test 10-14 days after transfer confirms pregnancy.
Advanced IVF Options
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
Screens for chromosomal abnormalities to improve implantation rates and reduce miscarriage
ICSI
For severe male infertility — injecting a single sperm directly into each egg
Embryo Cryopreservation
Freeze surplus high-quality embryos for future use
Donor Egg IVF
For patients with diminished ovarian reserve using donor eggs
IVF Cost Breakdown in California
IVF costs are itemized across several components. Below is a typical cost range per cycle at HRC Fertility:
| Cost Item | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Monitoring (ultrasounds & bloodwork) | $2,000–$3,000 |
| Egg retrieval (includes anesthesia) | $5,000–$8,000 |
| Lab fertilization & embryo culture | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Embryo transfer | $2,000–$3,000 |
| Medications (billed separately) | $3,000–$6,000 |
| PGT genetic testing (optional) | $3,000–$6,000 |
| Total per cycle (with meds, excl. PGT) | $15,000–$25,000 |
* Estimates only; actual costs vary by personalized treatment plan. Some U.S. states mandate insurance coverage for IVF.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does IVF cost?
A complete IVF cycle (excluding medications) typically costs $12,000–$15,000 in the US. Medications add roughly $3,000–$6,000. HRC offers financing plans and some insurance policies may cover partial costs. We recommend asking our coordinators for a detailed cost breakdown at your first consultation.
How long does one IVF cycle take?
From initial evaluation to embryo transfer, one IVF cycle typically takes 4–8 weeks. Ovarian stimulation runs 10–14 days, followed by egg retrieval, then 3–5 days of embryo culture to the blastocyst stage. If using frozen embryo transfer (FET), an additional 1–2 months is needed to prepare the uterine lining.
Is egg retrieval painful? Do I need to stay in hospital?
Egg retrieval is performed under IV sedation, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. It takes about 15–30 minutes, and you recover in our facility for 1–2 hours before going home — no hospitalization required. Mild bloating or discomfort afterward typically resolves within 1–2 days.
How many eggs are retrieved in one cycle?
Egg yield varies by age and ovarian reserve (AMH level). On average, women under 35 retrieve 10–15 eggs, resulting in 1–5 usable embryos after fertilization. Your physician will provide a personalized projection based on your test results at your first visit.
What if my first IVF cycle fails?
An unsuccessful first cycle does not mean there is no hope. Your physician will analyze the reasons (embryo quality, uterine environment, hormonal factors) and adjust the next protocol. Studies show that cumulative success rates over 2–3 IVF cycles reach 65%–85% for most patients. HRC's team will support you every step of the way to find the right approach.
Related Topics
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