After researching IVF (in vitro fertilization), we could not believe how expensive it was in the United States. One day while researching, I came across a blog about IVF in Barbados. Hmm, IVF in paradise? I was intrigued, so I started researching the clinic, Barbados Fertility Clinic (BFC). Everything I came across was positive. Even the people who had failed cycles raved about BFC. That was not something I had come across in my research on IVF clinics in the United States. Quite the opposite actually. I found videos from the staff and doctors at BFC, news clippings, interviews, and articles. They spoke English, and that was important. I found other international clinics, but I would need a translator, and that didn't make me feel comfortable. I wanted to understand the doctor and be able to ask questions directly.
I gathered all of my findings and discussed it with my husband. To my surprise, he said yes! Why pay $20,000 in the U.S. and deal with the daily stressors of life, when we can go to paradise, have a vacation and pay half the price? It was a no brainer!
Before I reached out to BFC, I asked this question in an online IVF forum:
"Has anyone else considered IVF outside your country? I'm paying 100% out of pocket and found IVF is so much cheaper elsewhere. Barbados, Greece, Mexico, Europe... And you get a vacation on top of it. Thoughts or experiences are appreciated!"
Surprisingly there wasn't much discussion about international IVF up to that point. The question took off. I even made friends with other couples going to Barbados for IVF. Since there wasn't much information on the subject, I journaled my experience to share the challenges and benefits of doing IVF internationally. Everyone will have a unique experience, but knowing the challenges with tests, medications, and procedures, ahead of time, will help you line things up better than going in blind.