Fertility Treatment Support in India
ASAR Programme · WHO & ICMR Referenced · 2024–25 Edition Reviewed and accredited by the team of fertility specialists at Neelkanth IVF
IVF & Fertility Overview
Infertility is a disease of the male or female reproductive system, defined by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.
Source: WHO, 2023 | Global Burden of Disease Study, 2025. Reference: World Health Organization (2023); American Society for Reproductive Medicine (2023)
People affected by infertility globally (17.5% of adults)
IVF cycles performed in India annually
You're Not Alone
Infertility affects 1 in 6 adults globally — a lifetime prevalence of 17–18%, impacting over 165 million people worldwide. It is not a rare condition. It is a growing healthcare challenge that deserves real answers and real solutions. Source: WHO, 2023 | Global Burden of Disease Study, 2025. Reference: World Health Organization (2023); American Society for Reproductive Medicine (2023)
Modern Treatment, Real Results
Today's fertility medicine offers more hope than ever. From IUI and IVF to ICSI, egg freezing, and genetic screening (PGT-A), treatment is increasingly personalised, precise, and effective. Advances in reproductive technology are helping more people build families every year.Source: ESHRE | ASRM
Why Thousands Choose to Travel for IVF
For many people, the cost of IVF at home is a significant barrier. A recent published estimate suggests 25,000–30,000 couples travel abroad each year for fertility treatment, seeking affordable care, shorter waiting times, and access to advanced reproductive technologies.
India has become one of the world's leading destinations for IVF, offering experienced fertility specialists, accredited fertility clinics, and a well-established medical tourism ecosystem. The Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021 provides a clear legal framework for regulating ART clinics and banks, supporting transparency and patient confidence.
International patients from the UK, North America, the Middle East, and Sub-Saharan Africa choose India for its combination of affordable treatment, modern reproductive technologies, coordinated international patient support, and streamlined treatment pathways.
Top 10 Reasons International Patients Choose India for IVF
| Rank | Reason |
|---|---|
| 1 | Accessible fertility treatment compared to costs in the US, UK, and Western countries |
| 2 | Expert fertility specialists with international training |
| 3 | No waiting lists and faster treatment cycles |
| 4 | Multilingual care (English, Arabic, and international patient support) |
| 5 | World-class IVF clinics and laboratory infrastructure |
| 6 | Advanced reproductive technology and clinical expertise |
| 7 | Wide range of IVF and assisted reproductive treatments |
| 8 | Advanced IVF technology (PGT-A, time-lapse embryo monitoring, vitrification) |
| 9 | Strong legal framework (ART Regulation Act 2021) |
| 10 | End-to-end support (visa, travel, accommodation, follow-up care) |
Sources: IFFS (2024) | Government of India, ART Act (2021)/Journal of IVF-Worldwide. 2025/| MTA, 2024/
Explore IVF Treatment Options
India's leading fertility centres offer the full spectrum of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART). The right treatment is determined by your specific diagnosis, age, and goals. Fertility laws and availability vary by Indian state. Consult a registered ART clinic under the ART Bill 2021. This table is for educational purposes and does not replace medical or legal advice.
IVF
Eggs and sperm are fertilised in controlled lab conditions; the resulting embryo is transferred to the uterus.
IUI
Washed sperm is placed directly into the uterus during ovulation, shortening the distance to the egg. Requires at least one open fallopian tube.
FET
Frozen embryos from a previous IVF cycle are thawed and transferred in a later, optimised cycle.
PGT-A
Embryos are screened for chromosomal abnormalities before transfer. Helps selection, but does not guarantee a healthy baby.
Mild / Natural IVF
IVF performed with minimal or no stimulation drugs, typically retrieving fewer eggs.
Surrogacy Legal Guide
India’s Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021 prohibits commercial surrogacy outright and limits altruistic surrogacy to eligible Indian citizens only. As a result, international patients cannot access surrogacy in India.
Current Legal Position (2024–25)
What International Patients Can Access
International patients can access several fertility treatments through registered ART clinics and banks in India, including:
- Egg donation IVF using donor eggs and the patient’s own uterus
- Donor sperm IUI and IVF, where permitted under applicable Indian regulations
- Embryo creation and cryopreservation (freezing) for future use
- Egg, sperm, and embryo freezing for fertility preservation
Patients considering surrogacy may also choose to create and store embryos in India before pursuing treatment in a country where surrogacy is legally permitted.
“Important Information Surrogacy laws are subject to legislative changes and court decisions. International patients should obtain independent legal advice before making treatment plans and work only with registered ART clinics that comply with Indian law. “
References: Surrogacy (Regulation) Act (2021) | Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act (2021)
What Affects Your Outcomes?
IVF outcomes depend on a range of clinical and individual factors. Understanding these helps patients and clinicians together make more informed decisions about the right treatment path.
Always ask for centre-specific Live Birth Rate (LBR) data — not just clinical pregnancy rates — as the true measure of success. Cumulative LBR across multiple cycles gives the most complete picture.
| Factor | Clinical Relevance |
|---|---|
| Age (most critical factor) | Egg quality declines after 35; strongest single predictor of live birth outcomes |
| Ovarian Reserve (AMH & AFC) | Low AMH / AFC predicts poor stimulation response and reduced cumulative success |
| Embryo Quality & Stage | Blastocyst-stage transfer improves implantation rates vs Day 3 |
| Sperm DNA Integrity (DFI) | High DFI (>25–30%) significantly impairs embryo quality and live birth outcomes |
| Uterine Receptivity (ERA) | Personalised transfer timing improves outcomes in recurrent implantation failure |
| PGT-A (chromosomal health) | Screens embryos for aneuploidy; reduces miscarriage risk |
| Laboratory Quality | Strict air quality (ISO), time-lapse monitoring, and standardised protocols are critical |
| BMI & Lifestyle | BMI >30 reduces IVF outcomes; optimise pre-treatment where possible |
References: ASRM Practice Committee (2023) | ESHRE Consensus & Good Practice Guidelines (2022–2023) | ESHRE PGT Consortium (2023) | IVIRMA Research (2023)
Meet Our Fertility Specialists
Choosing the right fertility specialist is an important part of your parenthood journey. ASAR Care collaborates with experienced reproductive medicine experts, IVF specialists, embryologists, and multidisciplinary fertility teams across India's leading fertility centres. Our partner specialists provide evidence-based, personalised treatment for couples and individuals seeking fertility care, guiding patients through every stage of their treatment with compassion, transparency, and advanced reproductive technologies.
Loading doctors…
Fertility Hospitals & Choosing Your Clinic
India's fertility centres span metro cities with varying specialisations. When choosing a clinic, look beyond cost — accreditation, volume, technology, and transparent communication are equally important. How to Choose Your Clinic — Checklist Registered with NRBCI (National Registry) under the ART Act 2021 NABH or JCI accredited — international quality benchmark ISO-certified embryology lab with strict air quality controls Published live birth rates (ask — not just clinical pregnancy rates) Dedicated international patient coordinator and telehealth access Written, itemised cost estimate provided upfront Clear policy on frozen embryo storage and international transport
Loading hospitals…
Fertility Hospitals & Choosing Your Clinic
India’s fertility centres span metro cities with varying specialisations. When choosing a clinic, look beyond cost — accreditation, volume, technology, and transparent communication are equally important.
How to Choose Your Clinic — Checklist
- Registered with NRBCI (National Registry) under the ART Act 2021
- NABH or JCI accredited — international quality benchmark
- ISO-certified embryology lab with strict air quality controls
- Published live birth rates (ask — not just clinical pregnancy rates)
- Dedicated international patient coordinator and telehealth access
- Written, itemised cost estimate provided upfront
- Clear policy on frozen embryo storage and international transport
Diagnostic Review
A thorough diagnosis before treatment begins is not optional — it is essential. Up to 30% of IVF failures are linked to undiagnosed or under-investigated conditions. India’s leading centres offer complete diagnostic packages, often starting remotely.
Most blood tests (AMH, thyroid, hormones) and semen analysis can be completed in your home country and shared with an Indian specialist before you travel — saving time and cost.
Pre-Travel Diagnostic Requirements
Prior to travelling to India for treatment, patients may be required to undergo certain diagnostic tests. These requirements may vary on a case-by-case basis, depending on the individual’s medical condition and treatment plan.
A. Standard Investigations
Blood Group
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Liver Function Test (LFT)
Renal Function Test (RFT)
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)
Thyroid Profile: TSH, FT3, FT4
Random Blood Sugar (RBS)
Prolactin
HBsAg
HIV
HCV
VDRL
Serum Estradiol (E2)
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
Serum Progesterone
Ultrasound (USG), with emphasis on pelvic scan
B. Additional Investigations (If Clinically Indicated)
Serum APLA Test
Anti-thyroid Antibody Test
HbA1c
Blood Sugar (Fasting & Postprandial)
Coagulation Profile: PT, aPTT, INR
Karyotype
Urine Routine & Microscopy
Urine Culture
2D Echocardiography
Pap Smear
Endometrial Biopsy
Mammography
A. Standard Investigations
Blood Group
HBsAg
HIV
HCV
VDRL
Semen Analysis (including DNA Fragmentation Index – DFI)
B. Additional Investigations (If Clinically Indicated)
Serum FSH
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
Testosterone
Serum Estradiol (E2)
Y-Chromosome Microdeletion Testing
Scrotal/Testicular Doppler
Karyotype
2D Echocardiography
“Important Notice: Test requirements vary by individual case and clinical judgment. This list is for general reference only, not a diagnosis or guarantee of required testing. Final decisions rest with the treating physician. If any of the prescribed tests are unavailable in the patient’s country of residence (e.g., the UK, Canada, or elsewhere), patients are advised to arrive in India a few days in advance to complete these investigations at our facility.”
Post-Treatment Follow-Up
Pregnancy & Beyond — The ASAR Programme
Care That Follows You Home
Your care doesn’t end when you leave India. The ASAR Programme supports international patients after treatment – through early pregnancy or a cycle review, wherever you are.
What's Included
Ongoing Medical Follow-Up
Your fertility team monitors early pregnancy progress and flags concerns early.
Trimester-by-Trimester Guidance
What to expect, when to act, who to call — at every stage.
Coordination with Your Local OB/GYN
Reports shared directly with your doctor for seamless, connected care.
Emotional Support
Counselling and a dedicated care coordinator, whenever you need it.
Support Through Delivery
Continuous guidance — you’re never without a next step.
Remote Video Consultations
Secure video calls with your India-based team, from anywhere.
“From treatment to delivery, ASAR stays with you — ensuring a safe, supported, and guided pregnancy journey, wherever in the world you are.”
After a Successful Transfer
| Timeline | What to Do | Clinical Note |
|---|---|---|
| Day 14 post-transfer | Beta hCG blood test — done locally; results shared with India clinic remotely | Rising hCG doubling every 48 hours suggests viable intrauterine pregnancy |
| Week 6–7 | First ultrasound to confirm fetal heartbeat — arrange with your local doctor | Transvaginal ultrasound at 6 weeks |
| Week 10–12 | First trimester screening (NIPT, NT scan) with your local obstetrician | ACOG / RCOG First Trimester Screening Guidelines 2023 |
| Ongoing | Continue all prescribed medications until specialist confirms tapering | Luteal support to 10–12 weeks; do not self-discontinue |
Additional Clinical Notes
- Clinic issues a full discharge summary and medication plan for your home-country OB/GYN
- Embryo storage in India: legally protected for up to 10 years (ART Act 2021, S.31); annual consent and renewal required
- Cross-border embryo transport: requires Indian export clearance plus destination country import approval before any transfer of frozen material
If the Cycle Is Unsuccessful
A failed cycle provides valuable clinical information. A remote post-cycle consultation with your ASAR team covers all modifiable factors and next steps — so you move forward with clarity, not uncertainty.
The post-cycle consultation covers:
- Full review of stimulation, fertilisation, embryo development, and transfer data
- Assessment of modifiable factors and available frozen embryo options
- Further investigations where indicated: ERA, PGT-A, hysteroscopy, immune panel
- Psychological support and fertility counselling access throughout
Technology Platform
Smart Embryo Camera (Time-Lapse Monitoring)
A special camera inside the incubator takes a photo of your embryo every few minutes — without ever opening the incubator or disturbing it. Doctors can watch how your embryo is growing, hour by hour, and pick the healthiest one for transfer — without any extra handling that could stress it.
Embryo Health Check (Genetic Screening)
Before transfer, embryos can be gently tested to check they have the right number of chromosomes — the "instruction booklets" every cell needs to grow properly. Helps choose the embryo with the best chance of a healthy pregnancy, and can lower the chance of a failed transfer or early miscarriage.
Perfect Timing Test (Personalised Transfer Window)
A simple test finds the exact day your body is most ready to welcome an embryo — because every woman's "best day" is a little different. Instead of guessing the timing, your transfer is scheduled for the day your body is naturally most receptive.
Best Sperm Selection (Gentle Sorting Technology)
A tiny chip — like a miniature maze — lets sperm swim through on their own. The healthiest, strongest swimmers naturally make it through first. A gentler, more natural way to find the best-quality sperm, especially helpful in male-factor fertility cases.
Ultra-Fast Freezing (Egg & Embryo Preservation)
Eggs and embryos are frozen in a fraction of a second — so fast that no damaging ice crystals have time to form. Keeps eggs and embryos safe and healthy for the future, with very high survival rates when they're thawed later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions international patients have about receiving treatment in India through ASAR Care.
A standard IVF cycle requires 10–14 days for ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval. For a Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) only, 5–7 days may suffice if pre-monitoring is done locally. Many centres allow stimulation to begin at home with travel timed for egg retrieval.
Yes. Most leading centres offer online consultation and digital report review. Preliminary tests (AMH, hormones, semen analysis) can be completed in your home country before travel.
Apply for an Indian Medical Visa (M Visa) from your nearest Indian embassy or consulate. Your clinic's international coordinator will provide a formal invitation letter to support your application.
Yes — provided you choose a registered, accredited clinic. India's ART Act 2021 is strictly enforced by the NRBCI. All clinics must be registered, doctors qualified, and laboratories meeting specified standards.
ICMR guidelines recommend a maximum age of 45 for IVF with own eggs. With donor eggs, many centres accept intended mothers up to 50, subject to thorough medical evaluation.
Embryos are stored under regulated cryopreservation conditions — legally for up to 10 years with patient ownership protected (ART Act 2021, S.31). Annual written consent is required. Cross-border transport is possible with appropriate legal clearances in both countries.
Outcomes depend on the woman's age, gamete quality, the cause of infertility, and the clinical expertise of the treating centre. Always ask for centre-specific Live Birth Rate (LBR) data and cumulative LBR across cycles, as these are the most meaningful measures of success.
PGT-A screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities before transfer — significantly reducing miscarriage risk. It is typically recommended for women aged 38 and over, those with recurrent miscarriage, or those with two or more failed IVF cycles.