In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) in Greece with High Success Rates

What is In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)?

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is the most common and effective method of assisted reproduction. As its name suggests, it is a process in which the fertilisation of the egg by the sperm takes place outside the body, in laboratory conditions, rather than naturally in the woman's fallopian tubes.

Despite the technical support, the eggs and sperm belong to the couple themselves, and the resulting embryos are safely transferred back to the uterus for implantation and pregnancy. IVF is used in cases of infertility due to fallopian tube problems, male factors, ovarian dysfunction, or when there is no apparent cause. Since 1978, IVF has evolved rapidly, giving hope and a solution to millions of couples worldwide.

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The Stages of In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

The journey to pregnancy, step by step

Step 1

Preparation and Fertility Testing

The first stage of the process involves a detailed medical examination and discussion with the doctor to understand the couple's history and identify any potential obstacles to fertility. Blood tests, transvaginal ultrasound, semen analysis and hormone markers are performed to develop a personalised IVF plan. At the same time, instructions are given on dietary and lifestyle changes that increase the chances of success. A strong body before conception is the first step to a healthy pregnancy.

Tiny newborn feet and hands, symbolizing the joyful outcome of a successful IVF journey.

Step 2

Ovarian Stimulation & Egg Retrieval

Once the preparation is complete, ovarian stimulation begins with daily hormone injections for 9-12 days to produce more follicles. During this phase, frequent ultrasounds and blood tests are performed. When the follicles reach the appropriate size, egg retrieval is scheduled – a short procedure lasting a few minutes, during which the eggs are collected from the ovaries under light anaesthesia. The eggs are then the eggs are fertilised in the laboratory with the partner's or donor's sperm.

Doctor and patient discuss IVF using a uterine model during a consultation with ultrasound screen visible.

Step 3

Embryo transfer & waiting

The fertilised eggs are monitored by specialist embryologists as they develop for 3 to 5 days. The best embryo is then selected for transfer to the uterus — a simple and painless procedure that does not require anaesthesia. The remaining healthy embryos can be cryopreserved for future use. After embryo transfer, the waiting period begins, and approximately 10-12 days later, a pregnancy test is performed by testing for beta-hCG in the blood.

Micropipette precisely injects fluid into a petri dish during the critical IVF laboratory procedure.

In Vitro Fertilisation Methods

The choice of the appropriate in vitro fertilisation method is personalised, based on the medical evaluation and the needs of each couple. The basic IVF methods include the natural cycle, the modified natural cycle, the mild stimulation method and full stimulation. Each approach has its own characteristics, advantages and limitations.

1

In Vitro Fertilisation in the Natural Cycle

In the natural cycle, no stimulation drugs are used, except for a single maturation injection shortly before egg retrieval. The process follows the normal development of a follicle, which is collected and fertilised in the laboratory. This method is less invasive and low-cost, but has reduced success rates and an increased risk of embryo unavailability. It is recommended for women with poor ovarian reserves or those who prefer natural methods.

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2

Modified Natural Cycle

This approach is based on the natural development of a follicle, but is enhanced with low doses of medication to prevent premature ovulation. This preserves the simplicity of the natural cycle while significantly reducing the risk of cancellation. It is a safer alternative for women with limited ovarian response.

3

Mild stimulation

Mild stimulation uses lower doses of medication for a shorter period of time, aiming to produce fewer but higher quality follicles. It has very good success rates and reduces the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation. This method combines better performance than the natural cycle and less stress compared to full stimulation.

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4

Full Stimulation

The most commonly used method, where the woman receives higher doses of gonadotropins to create more follicles. It offers the highest success rates per cycle and is the ideal choice for couples seeking maximum performance. Although it is more expensive and involves more medication, it reduces the need for repeated cycles.

Advanced IVF Techniques

For even better targeting, IVF can be combined with specialised techniques.

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What does the cost of IVF include?

In vitro fertilisation is a multifaceted process that does not have a standard cost for everyone. Instead, each couple follows a personalised treatment plan based on their needs and medical indications. For this reason, it is important to know exactly what the total cost includes so that you can make an informed choice.

The cost may include ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilisation (IVF or ICSI), embryo transfer, blastocyst culture, the use of special techniques such as PICSI or EmbryoGlue, and additional options such as egg or embryo freezing.

Prices may vary depending on the protocol chosen (natural cycle, full stimulation, egg donation, etc.), while medication and blood tests are usually covered by the EOPYY.

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Frequently Asked Questions About IVF

What are the basic stages of IVF?

The process includes: ovarian stimulation with medication, egg retrieval (oocyte retrieval), fertilisation in the laboratory (IVF or ICSI), embryo culture and finally embryo transfer to the uterus. The entire process takes approximately 2–3 weeks.

How many IVF attempts are needed on average to be successful?

The success rate depends on the woman's age, the quality of the eggs/sperm and the fertility history. Many couples achieve pregnancy within 1–3 IVF cycles.

What is the cost of a complete IVF treatment?

The cost can start at ~3,500 and reach or exceed 5,500, depending on whether egg donation, cryopreservation or special techniques are required. See the IVF Costs Page for details.

Does the IVF process hurt?

The process is basically painless. Egg retrieval is performed under mild anaesthesia and takes about 15 minutes. The injections of medication may cause minor discomfort, such as bloating or sensitivity in the abdomen.

What are the success rates by age?

In women under 35, success rates are around 50–60%. After 40, the rates gradually decrease, while egg donation significantly increases the chances regardless of age.

What drugs are used in IVF and are they covered by EOPYY?

Stimulation drugs include gonadotropins and other hormones. With a prescription from your doctor and approval from the EOPYY committee, they are provided at a significant discount or free of charge.

When can I take a pregnancy test after embryo transfer?

The measurement of beta-hCG is usually performed 10–12 days after embryo transfer, with a blood test. Home pregnancy tests are not recommended before this time.

Our Doctors

In an era where fertility requires knowledge, care, and substantial guidance, FertUlity is not an impersonal clinic. It is two people who look you in the eye and accompany you step by step on the journey you dream of.

Dr. Maria Oikonomou Obstetrician – Gynecologist

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Dr. Chrysostomos (Makis) Papadopoulos Obstetrician – Gynecologist, MD, PhDc, MIC I

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We support every path, from fertility assessment and preservation to modern assisted reproduction.