Provider
ABC IVF
ABC IVF is a lower-cost fertility clinic network serving UK-wide. Its published services include IVF, ICSI, Fertility testing, Treatment packages.
Treatment
IVF
In vitro fertilisation — an assisted conception treatment where eggs are fertilised outside the body and embryos may be transferred to the womb.
This page is for educational comparison only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Speak to a qualified clinician about your own health.
Quick facts
- Type
- Treatment
- Category
- Fertility
- NHS available
- Yes
- Evidence status
- Limited — see evidence summary
Overview
IVF (in vitro fertilisation) is a form of assisted conception. Eggs are collected from the ovaries, fertilised with sperm in a laboratory, and one or more embryos may later be placed in the womb. Related techniques such as ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) may be used in some cases. IVF is usually considered after assessment of fertility problems, or in specific clinical situations, rather than as a first step for every couple.
NHS funding for IVF depends on local integrated care board (ICB) criteria, age, previous children and other factors, so access varies across the UK. Private IVF is widely available but can be expensive, may involve more than one cycle, and does not guarantee a live birth. Success rates depend on age and clinical circumstances; clinic statistics should be read carefully using HFEA information.
IVF can cause complications. Medicines used to stimulate the ovaries carry a risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which can make the ovaries swollen and painful and occasionally requires urgent care. Transferring more than one embryo increases the chance of multiple pregnancy, with higher risks for parent and babies. There is also a slightly increased risk of ectopic pregnancy. Clinics should discuss medicines, monitoring, egg collection, embryo transfer, freezing options and emotional support before treatment starts.
In the UK, clinics providing IVF should be licensed by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). Choosing a clinic carefully matters as much as comparing headline prices.
This page is educational and comparative only. It does not recommend IVF for any individual.
Who it is suitable for
People who have already discussed fertility options with a clinician and are comparing IVF pathways. Not a first step for everyone trying to conceive, and not a substitute for fertility assessment.
Benefits
- Can enable pregnancy when other approaches are unsuitable or unsuccessful.
- HFEA licensing and published clinic information support safer clinic comparison in the UK.
- May be available on the NHS where local criteria are met, or privately.
Limitations
- Does not guarantee a live birth; success rates fall with age.
- Can be physically and emotionally demanding.
- Private treatment is costly and may require multiple cycles.
- Ovarian stimulation can cause ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
- Risks include multiple pregnancy and ectopic pregnancy in some circumstances.
- NHS funding criteria vary by area.
Evidence summary
IVF is an established assisted conception treatment with outcomes that vary by age and indication. NICE fertility guidance and HFEA clinic data support informed comparison; private marketing claims should not replace regulated outcome reporting.
Related providers
Provider
Harley Street Fertility Clinic
Harley Street Fertility Clinic is a private fertility clinic serving London. Its published services include IVF, ICSI, Egg freezing, Fertility assessment.
Provider
London IVF and Genetics Centre
London IVF and Genetics Centre is a fertility and reproductive genetics provider serving London.
Provider
Gennet City Fertility
Gennet City Fertility is a private fertility clinic serving London. Its published services include IVF, ICSI, Egg freezing, Donor treatment.
Provider
The Fertility Centre Chelsea and Westminster
The Fertility Centre Chelsea and Westminster is a UK specialist private healthcare provider focused on private fertility centre. Its published services include…
Provider
Manchester Fertility
Manchester Fertility is an independent regional clinic providing IVF, ICSI, IUI, egg freezing, donor treatment and fertility assessment.
Provider
Bourn Hall
Bourn Hall is historically significant as the world's first IVF clinic and remains a major regional fertility provider.
Provider
CREATE Fertility
CREATE Fertility is a UK specialist private healthcare provider focused on fertility clinic network. Its published services include IVF, Mild IVF, Natural IVF,…
Related conditions
Condition
Infertility
Difficulty conceiving despite regular unprotected sex — educational overview of causes, when to seek help and usual pathways.
FAQs
Is IVF available on the NHS?
Sometimes, depending on local ICB criteria and clinical circumstances. Ask a GP or fertility clinic about eligibility in your area.
How do I choose a private IVF clinic?
Prefer HFEA-licensed clinics and read HFEA information on success rates and what is included in quoted prices. A GP can also advise.
Is IVF the same as a fertility assessment?
No. Assessment investigates causes and options. IVF is a treatment that may follow that discussion.
Editorial information
- Editorial owner
- MHI Editorial
Sources
- NHS — IVF(guideline)
- NICE — fertility problems (CG156)(guideline)
- HFEA — IVF(registry)
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