Fertility tourism is gaining attention as some Americans travel to Europe for in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), combining medical treatment with short breaks abroad. Rising treatment costs in the United States, limited insurance coverage and uncertainty around fertility-related policies are among the factors encouraging couples to consider clinics overseas. Greece, Spain and the Czech Republic have emerged as popular destinations for international fertility patients.

For couples choosing this route, the medical treatment remains the main purpose of the journey, while sightseeing is planned around appointments and procedures. One example is Emilie and Justin Solomon from Florida, who were reportedly quoted about USD 40,000 for an IVF cycle in the US. Their insurance did not cover the treatment, prompting them to explore options in Europe. At a clinic in Athens, their treatment, including medication, fertilisation, storage and embryo transfer, cost around USD 12,000, excluding travel expenses.

Their experience illustrates how fertility treatment can become part of a carefully organised international trip. During their first visit to Greece, Emilie underwent ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval, while the couple used available time to explore the country. They also travelled to the island of Milos between appointments. However, such travel requires careful scheduling because IVF involves multiple medical procedures, medications and consultations that must take place within specific stages of the treatment cycle.

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The financial difference is one of the strongest factors behind the trend. A study of insured Americans released in July found that the average cost of one IVF cycle in the US exceeds USD 29,000. Additional expenses such as genetic testing, embryo storage, pregnancy care and delivery can push the cost of an IVF-conceived birth beyond USD 54,000. Since some patients require multiple IVF cycles before achieving a successful pregnancy, the overall expense can become substantially higher, making overseas treatment an attractive option for certain couples.

European countries have developed strong fertility-treatment sectors catering to international patients. Spain has a large network of assisted-reproduction clinics and extensive experience treating overseas patients, while Greece has become known for relatively accessible treatment costs and its Mediterranean setting. The Czech Republic is another established destination for reproductive medicine. Other locations considered by fertility travellers include North Cyprus and Denmark. According to the European Fertility Society, the number of Americans choosing European fertility clinics increased by more than 37% last year.

Despite the growing appeal, fertility tourism is different from an ordinary holiday and comes with medical, financial and logistical considerations. IVF can involve hormone injections, frequent consultations, egg retrieval, laboratory procedures and embryo transfer, meaning travel plans must remain flexible and follow medical advice. For some couples, however, travelling abroad can provide access to more affordable treatment while allowing them to spend time in a different environment. In the case of the Solomons, their treatment ultimately resulted in the birth of a baby boy after one IVF cycle and two trips to Greece.

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