IVF and Gender Selection in Japan
Infertility treatments are getting more widespread thanks to technological advancements in the field. One of the most effective treatments is IVF. Today, it has already become an indispensable part of infertility treatments and more than 8 million babies have been born with IVF around the world since treatments first started in the 80s.
In this article, we will explain IVF treatment in detail with a focus on Japan.
What Is IVF?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) procedure in which sperm and an egg are fertilized outside of the human body. IVF provides couples facing fertility issues with the opportunity to have a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby. There are numerous reasons why couples may choose to undergo IVF treatment. Male or female infertility, as well as inability to conceive due to advanced age, are among these reasons.
The IVF Process
The IVF process starts with the suppression of the ovaries. During this stage, the woman will begin taking birth control pills, which suppress ovarian hormones and prevent ovulation. This is necessary for the following process of ovarian stimulation. Typically, women ovulate a single egg per month. For ovarian stimulation, different combinations of fertility medication are used to help the production of multiple eggs. The availability of multiple eggs is a key factor that increases the chance of having more embryos that can be placed in the uterus later on.
The next stage is the retrieval of the eggs. The mature eggs will be identified and retrieved to be fertilized outside the body. Fertilization is accomplished through insemination, which involves placing the sperm in the fluid surrounding the eggs in a laboratory setting, or through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), which involves injecting the sperm directly into the egg. The suitable sperm from the male or a donor can be used during this stage. The fertilized eggs develop into embryos and later one or several will be placed into the mother’s uterus.
In the final stage, the development of the embryos is closely monitored and the healthiest ones are identified. These embryos are transferred to the uterus of the mother and the results are awaited. After egg retrieval, it takes around two weeks to determine whether a successful pregnancy has been achieved.
It is important to note that several IVF cycles may be needed to achieve a successful pregnancy. The age of the women is also very important and younger women see better results.
Who Needs IVF?
IVF is typically the most effective and safest method of successful conceiving for couples who are experiencing infertility issues. When other fertility treatments, such as fertility medication or insemination, fail, couples frequently turn to IVF. There are numerous reasons why couples want to receive IVF treatments. Some of these reasons are:
- Low sperm count, male infertility
- Ovulation disorders
- Problems with the fallopian tubes
- If either partner has been sterilized
- Premature menopause
- Recurrent miscarriages
- Endometriosis
- Increased Age
- Risk of passing on inherited genetic disorders to the children
What is IVF Gender Selection?
Gender selection, also known as sex selection, is a step in IVF treatments. While the gender of the baby is determined at random in standard IVF treatments, with gender selection, you can choose the gender of your baby.
A fertility specialist can determine the gender of an embryo by examining the chromosomes before the egg is implanted in the woman’s uterus. Preimplantation genetic testing can now be used to monitor the gender of embryos thanks to advancements in modern fertility technologies. This allows for the accurate prediction of an embryo’s gender.
Although IVF treatment is becoming more common around the world, gender selection treatment is a relatively new treatment and currently, it is only legally available in a few countries. Gender selection treatment is illegal in the vast majority of countries around the world, or its availability is severely limited.
IVF in Japan
Today, Japan has one of the world’s largest populations of people seeking IVF treatments, and the country has the highest rate of IVF treatment. Around the country, more than 600 facilities and clinics provide IVF treatments to infertile couples.
One of the most common reasons why there is a high demand for IVF in Japan is the changing role of women in society. As more women as well as men priorities working during their most fertile years, many are seeking to conceive later in life which is known to be more difficult.
Despite the fact that the treatments can be costly, an increasing number of Japanese couples are interested in receiving IVF treatment. According to the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare, over 50,000 Japanese babies were born as a result of IVF treatment in 2018, accounting for 5% of all births in the country.
Gender selection treatment is strictly restricted in Japan, despite the country’s huge demand for in vitro fertilization. The application of the gender selection procedure is restricted to situations where there are genetic and chromosomal anomalies that could give rise to the birth of a child with a significant genetic condition.
There can be many reasons why couples may consider gender selection including family balancing. Because the practice is restricted in Japan, Japanese citizens and foreigners who want to have IVF gender selection treatment can consider getting medical care abroad.
Where to Get IVF and Gender Selection Treatment?
There are only a few countries around the world that provide gender selection treatments. Countries including Cyprus, Thailand, the US, Mexico, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates are on the list of those where gender selection is permitted. In this article, we will look at two of the best options.
IVF and Gender Selection in Thailand
Thailand is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world thanks to its vibrant culture, beautiful nature, and hospitable people. Adding to its tourism success, Thailand has recently risen to the top of the list of destinations for medical tourists as well, admitting millions of patients every year. Some of the biggest hospitals in Southeast Asia are located in the nation. Thai medicine offers economical treatments utilizing advanced medical technologies.
In addition, IVF costs are reasonable in cities such as the capital Bangkok, which is why many international patients opt to receive treatment at reputable Thai fertility clinics.
Additionally, gender selection is legal in Thailand if the patient fits the necessary criteria. This makes Thailand a great choice for couples who cannot have gender selection selections in their home country.
Many medical operations and treatments are far less expensive in Thailand than they would be in a western country like Europe, Australia, or North America. Today, the cost of the IVF treatment package deal is around €6,800 in fertility clinics in Thailand. If you want to have IVF with gender selection, it would cost approximately €12,000. The package deals include services such as accommodation and transportation.
IVF and Gender Selection in Cyprus
An island nation in the middle of the Mediterranean, Cyprus is a popular tourist destination. Its close proximity to Turkey makes transportation to the island very convenient via several airports.
Fertility Centers in Cyprus are experienced in IVF and gender selections being one of the very few countries offering these treatments. Cyprus is also one of the most affordable places for infertility treatments.
Below is the price list for current treatments offered in our contracted fertility centers in Cyprus.
| Treatment | Price |
| Classic IVF | €4,000 |
| IVF with Oosit Freezing | €4,000 |
| IVF with Sperm Donation | €5,500 |
| IVF with Oosit Donation | €6,500 |
| IVF with Embryo Donation | €7,500 |
| IVF + Gender Selection | €7,500 |
| IVF with Sperm Donation + Gender Selection | €8,500 |
| IVF with Oosit Donation + Gender Selection | €9,500 |
| IVF with Embryo Donation + Gender Selection | €11,000 |
| Micro-Tese | €3,000 |
| Embryo Freezing | €1,000 |
| Sperm Freezing | €750 |
As the treatment requires the patient to stay in the country for a while there are also package deals to handle issues such as accommodation more conveniently. The accommodation package costs €2,500 and it includes services such as;
- Round-trip flight tickets for 2 (tickets only cover domestic flights)
- 7 nights stay in Lord’s Palace Kyrenia hotel
- Taxi transfers between the airport, hotel, and clinic
If you are interested in learning more about IVF and gender selection procedures, prices, and package deals in Thailand and Cyprus, you can reach out to us with your questions. Our team is ready to help you 24/7.