Traveling to the United States for Fertility Treatment: Is This the Best Option for You?

When it comes to overcoming infertility, increasingly more patients are beginning to look abroad for reputable fertility clinics and donor egg facilities, like Donor Egg Bank USA. For some, the United States has become one of the best options available—especially for hopeful parents who currently reside in Australia.

The question is, why?

Why would a person choose to travel halfway around the world to start their family instead of using local healthcare practitioners closer to home?

Unfortunately, Australia isn’t the best location for fertility treatment for many reasons, such as high costs, lack of availability, and poorly regulated laws. On the other hand, the United States presents various benefits many people feel are worth the travel.

Why is Australia Lacking in the Realm of Infertility?

For many years, fertility treatment protocols and clinics in Australia have been under fire for their “for-profit treatment options.” Not only do treatments cost an exorbitant amount of money, but patients have also questioned the live birth rate statistics provided by these facilities.

One other major issue regarding Australian infertility options is their unregulated policies on donor eggs.

For patients who have unsuccessfully tried to get pregnant with procedures such as IUI and IVF, egg donation can be a practical next step. Regretfully, due to the Prohibition of Human Cloning for Reproduction Act, it’s illegal to compensate a donor for any type of human tissue, including donor eggs, sperm, or embryos.

While individuals can lawfully give their eggs, sperm, or embryos to an intended parent for free, most donors aren’t willing to do so. In addition, donors must register to be known in Australia, which is another deterrent for many young people.

When compared to other countries, what Australia lacks most is reliable support for those who need infertility treatment to have a baby.

Why is the United States a Good Alternative?

When it comes to assisted reproductive technology (ART) fertility practices, the United States is at the forefront of the medical industry. Not only do their doctors and facilities offer a wide range of treatment options, procedures, and protocols, but they provide significant support systems to make conception processes simpler for hopeful parents.

Let’s take another look at donor eggs as an example.

Compared to Australian practices, the United States has some of the largest and most reputable egg donation facilities in the world. Organizations like Donor Egg Bank USA work with donors and patients from across the globe to provide easy access to necessary tools, treatments, and support.

While finding the “right” egg donor in Australia can seem impossible, these respected facilities work hard to streamline the process. In fact, you’ll even have access to detailed online databases you can use to look at pictures and information from potential donors.

Thankfully, there are various pricing assistance and financing opportunities available to help Australian families afford their American fertility treatments.

Additionally, many American facilities offer significantly less expensive pricing.

4 Tips When Seeking Fertility Treatment Abroad

You’re ready to have a baby, but traditional conception hasn’t worked for over six months or longer. If you and your primary care physician or gynaecologist decide it’s time to pursue infertility treatment abroad, the prospective experience can seem overwhelming.

Before you get too stressed about the challenge, consider these four simple ways to make receiving fertility treatments abroad a little bit easier:

1. Do Plenty of Research

Whether you choose to receive fertility treatment in the United States or another country, it’s essential to do as much research as possible. There are many fertility providers and practices worldwide, so you should consider the success rates and various options available before making a final choice.

2. Set Up a Phone or Video Consultation with Potential Clinics

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of possible candidates, ask them to set up a phone or video consultation with you. This way, you can get a feel for their services and practices while having the chance to ask specific questions unique to your situation.

3. Plan Your Travel & Accommodations

After you’ve selected your clinic, it’s time to start figuring out where you’ll stay and how you’ll get there. Search discount travel sites for deals and ask your chosen clinic for suggestions. Some practices even offer complimentary services to patients from abroad, such as airport pick-ups.

4. Trust Your Gut

Last but certainly not least, trust your instincts.

Deciding to go outside Australia for your fertility treatment isn’t easy. While the black and white details of your treatment are essential, it’s just as crucial to do what feels right for you and your family.

Take your time, do your research, and make the best decision you can for your family’s particular needs.

With luck, you’ll come out on the other side preparing to welcome a precious little one into your family.