Money, Money, Money Isn’t Funny… when you're doing IVF!

Ok, I know that I shouldn’t complain about the cost of IVF when no one forced us into it.

And yes, I understand that women in the U.S. and in other parts of the world pay significantly more than we pay here in Canada.

And of course, I also realize that I am extremely lucky to have amazing drug coverage from my work- 80% for almost all the drugs!

But, can I still say OUCH! It is not cheap!

Here is a break-down of what we have paid so far… not including the three previous rounds of Clomid, prenatal vitamins, low dose ASA, or our uncompleted IUI.

The nonrefundable IVF Registration fee                                           $310

The Basic cost of IVF treatment                                                     $6300.00

IVFC Embryo Cryopreservation-                                                     $925.00

(this also includes the 1^st year of storage)

HATC Assisted Embryo Hatching                                                     $440.00

Drugs (so far)                                                                                $921.21

If you're not great at mental math I worked it out for you...

We are at $8,896.21… and we’re not even finished yet!

Even though my husband, Chris, was recently laid off we are the LUCKY ones. There are couples all over the world, and even here in Canada, who would love to try IVF, but they simply can’t afford it. 

In fact there are only 2 Canadian provinces that provide funding for IVF- Ontario and Quebec. Here in Alberta it was on the table to discuss until our economic downturn when if was quickly snatched back off.

So what can YOU do? 

The RFP has a program entitled Generations of Hope Fertility Assistance Fund where patients who cannot afford IVF treatments can receive some financial support. They are always looking for donations. Even a $25 donation could make a big difference. Call (403) 284- 9103 http://www.generationsofhope.ca/site/includes/pdf/GOH_Gift%20Form.pdf

OR

Let Alberta’s Premier, Minster of Health and Wellness, and your MLA know you support full coverage of IVF and other fertility treatments by clicking onto their link :

http://www.generationsofhope.ca/site/raise-your-voice.php

AND/OR

You can also sign the RFP’s petition urging the Alberta Government to support full coverage of IVF and other fertility treatments.

http://www.generationsofhope.ca/site/includes/pdf/1in6_Petition_May24.pdf

*If you don't live in Alberta I'm sure there are similar petitions in your province.