Embarking on an In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) journey is a significant life event, and when that journey takes you to another country, it can feel both exciting and overwhelming. At Safemedigo, we specialize in making your medical travel experience as seamless, comfortable, and successful as possible. This comprehensive guide is designed for our international patients traveling to Istanbul, Turkey, for IVF with Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT-A or PGT-M). We will walk you through every step of the process, from your initial online consultation to the moment you return home, filled with hope.
Part 1: Understanding IVF with PGT
Before delving into the logistics of your travel, it is crucial to understand the advanced medical procedures that will be part of your journey to parenthood.
What is IVF?
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a sophisticated series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child. During IVF, mature eggs are collected (retrieved) from ovaries and fertilized by sperm in a lab. Then the fertilized egg (embryo) or eggs (embryos) are transferred to a uterus. One full cycle of IVF takes about three weeks. Sometimes these steps are split into different parts and the process can take longer.
What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)?
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a groundbreaking technology used in conjunction with IVF to analyze the genetic health of embryos before they are transferred to the uterus. This allows for the selection of the healthiest embryos, significantly increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby. There are two primary types of PGT that we offer at Safemedigo:
PGT-A: For Chromosomal Screening
PGT for Aneuploidy (PGT-A) is a genetic test that screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities. Aneuploidy is the presence of an abnormal number of chromosomes in an embryo, which is a major cause of IVF failure, miscarriages, and genetic disorders like Down syndrome. PGT-A is recommended for:
•Women of advanced maternal age (typically over 35)
•Couples with a history of recurrent miscarriages
•Couples with previous IVF failures
•Individuals with a known chromosomal rearrangement
By selecting chromosomally normal (euploid) embryos, PGT-A can improve IVF success rates per transfer, reduce the risk of miscarriage, and decrease the time it takes to achieve a successful pregnancy.
PGT-M: For Monogenic/Single-Gene Defects
PGT for Monogenic/Single-Gene Defects (PGT-M) is designed for couples who are at risk of passing on a specific inherited genetic disease to their children. This test is highly specific and is developed for each couple based on their unique genetic makeup. PGT-M can test for a wide range of single-gene disorders, including:
•Cystic Fibrosis
•Thalassemia
•Sickle Cell Anemia
•Huntington's Disease
•Usher Syndrome
PGT-M provides couples with the opportunity to have a biological child without the fear of passing on a serious genetic condition.
Part 2: Why Choose Safemedigo and Turkey for Your IVF Journey?
Choosing where to have your IVF treatment is a major decision. Here’s why so many international patients trust Safemedigo and choose Turkey as their medical destination.
The Safemedigo Advantage
At Safemedigo, we combine world-class medical expertise with a deep commitment to personalized patient care. Our clinic, located in the heart of Istanbul, is a center of excellence for fertility treatment.
•Experienced and Compassionate Team: Our clinic is led by the renowned Dr. Nilay Karaca, a specialist with over 30 years of experience in gynecology, obstetrics, and IVF. Dr. Karaca and our entire team of doctors, embryologists, and patient coordinators are dedicated to providing you with the highest level of care.
•State-of-the-Art Laboratory: We are partnered with Turkey's first and most advanced embryology laboratory. Our lab is equipped with the latest technology for ICSI, IMSI, embryo culture, and genetic testing, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.
•Personalized Patient Care: We believe that every patient is unique. We create a personalized treatment plan for each couple, tailored to their specific medical needs and circumstances. From your first contact with us, you will be assigned a dedicated patient coordinator who will be your guide and support system throughout your journey.
•The A-Z Experience for International Patients: We understand the challenges of traveling for medical treatment. That's why we offer a comprehensive service that covers every aspect of your trip. We assist with booking your accommodation at our partner hotels, arrange for VIP transportation from the airport, and are there to help with any other needs you may have during your stay in Istanbul.
The Turkey Advantage
Turkey has become a global hub for medical tourism, and for good reason. The country offers a unique combination of high-quality healthcare, affordable prices, and a rich cultural experience.
•High-Quality Medical Care at an Affordable Cost: Turkey's healthcare system is known for its high standards and advanced technology. You can expect to receive the same quality of care as you would in Western Europe or the United States, but at a fraction of the cost.
•Istanbul: A City of Wonders: Your medical journey doesn't have to be all about the treatment. Istanbul is a vibrant and historic city with a wealth of attractions to explore. From the stunning architecture of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque to the bustling Grand Bazaar, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
•Favorable Legal Environment: Turkey has a clear and supportive legal framework for IVF and other assisted reproductive technologies, providing a secure and regulated environment for your treatment.
Part 3: Your Step-by-Step IVF with PGT Journey at Safemedigo
We have designed a streamlined and patient-centric process to ensure your journey with us is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Phase 1: The Initial Consultation (Remote)
Your journey begins from the comfort of your own home.
1.Book Your Free Online Consultation: The first step is to schedule a free online consultation with one of our fertility specialists. You can do this through our website or by contacting our patient coordinators.
2.Prepare for Your Consultation: Before your consultation, we will ask you to provide us with your medical history and any previous test results. This will allow our doctors to have a thorough understanding of your case.
3.Meet Your Doctor: During the video consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your medical history, ask any questions you may have, and learn about your treatment options. Our doctor will provide you with a preliminary assessment and recommend a course of action.
4.Meet Your Patient Coordinator: After your consultation, you will be introduced to your dedicated patient coordinator. They will be your main point of contact throughout your journey, assisting you with everything from treatment planning to travel arrangements.
Phase 2: Preparing for Your Trip to Istanbul
Once you have decided to proceed with treatment at Safemedigo, we will help you prepare for your trip.
•Treatment Planning: Based on your initial consultation and medical records, our team will create a personalized treatment protocol for you. This will include a detailed timeline for your treatment, so you know exactly what to expect.
•Travel Logistics:
•Visa: We will provide you with all the necessary documentation to apply for a medical visa to Turkey, if required.
•Flights: You will be responsible for booking your own flights to Istanbul Airport (IST).
•Accommodation: We can assist you in booking your stay at one of our partner hotels, which offer preferential rates for our patients.
•Transportation: We will arrange for a VIP transfer to pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel.
Phase 3: Your Stay in Istanbul for Ovarian Stimulation and Egg Retrieval
This is the first active phase of your treatment, and it requires a stay of approximately 10-12 days in Istanbul.
•Arrival and Welcome: Upon your arrival in Istanbul, you will be greeted by our driver and transferred to your accommodation. You will receive a welcome package from us with all the information you need for your stay.
•Ovarian Stimulation: The goal of this phase is to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs. This involves:
•Medications: You will self-administer daily hormonal injections, and we will provide you with clear instructions and support.
•Monitoring: You will visit our clinic every 2-3 days for ultrasound scans and blood tests to monitor the growth of your follicles.
•Egg Retrieval (OPU): Once your follicles have reached the optimal size, we will schedule the egg retrieval procedure. This is a minor surgical procedure performed under light anesthesia, so you will not feel any discomfort. The procedure itself takes about 15-20 minutes.
•Sperm Collection: On the same day as the egg retrieval, your partner will provide a sperm sample.
•Fertilization: In our laboratory, our embryologists will fertilize the retrieved eggs with the sperm using the ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) technique.
Phase 4: Genetic Testing and Waiting Period
After the egg retrieval, you can return home while we perform the genetic testing on your embryos.
•Embryo Culture: The fertilized eggs will be cultured in our laboratory for 5-6 days until they reach the blastocyst stage.
•Embryo Biopsy and Freezing: Our embryologists will then perform a biopsy on each blastocyst, taking a small sample of cells for genetic analysis. The embryos are then frozen using the vitrification technique.
•PGT-A/PGT-M Analysis: The biopsied cells are sent to our specialized genetics laboratory for PGT-A or PGT-M testing. The results are typically available within 2-3 weeks.
•Results and Planning: Once we receive the results, your doctor will schedule another online consultation with you to discuss the results and plan for the next step: the frozen embryo transfer.
Phase 5: The Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
This is the final step of your IVF journey, and it requires a shorter stay of about 2-3 days in Istanbul.
•Uterine Preparation: Before you travel back to Istanbul, you will take medication to prepare your uterine lining for the embryo transfer.
•Embryo Thawing and Transfer: On the day of the transfer, our embryologists will thaw the selected healthy embryo. The embryo transfer is a simple and painless procedure, similar to a Pap smear. The doctor will carefully place the embryo into your uterus under ultrasound guidance.
•The Two-Week Wait: After the embryo transfer, you will return home and begin the two-week wait. This is a time of anticipation, and we encourage you to relax and take care of yourself. You will continue to take your prescribed medications during this time.
•The Pregnancy Test: Two weeks after your embryo transfer, you will have a blood test to determine if you are pregnant. You can have this test done in your home country, and you will share the results with us. If the test is positive, we will guide you on the next steps of your pregnancy journey. If the test is negative, your doctor will discuss the possible reasons with you and recommend the next course of action.
Part 4: Practical Information for Your Stay in Istanbul
We want to make your stay in Istanbul as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Here is some practical information to help you plan your trip.
Accommodation
We have partnered with several high-quality hotels near our clinic to offer our patients comfortable and convenient accommodation at preferential rates. These hotels are carefully selected for their excellent service, amenities, and proximity to our clinic. Your patient coordinator will be happy to assist you with booking your accommodation.
Transportation
From the moment you arrive in Istanbul, we take care of your transportation needs. We provide a complimentary VIP transfer service from Istanbul Airport (IST) to your hotel. We can also arrange for private transportation to and from your clinic appointments.
For getting around the city, Istanbul has a modern and efficient public transportation system, including a metro, trams, and ferries. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also widely available.
Communication
Staying connected with your medical team is essential. Your dedicated patient coordinator will be available to you 24/7 via phone, WhatsApp, or email to answer any questions you may have and provide you with support. We will also provide you with a local SIM card so you can stay connected with your family and friends back home.
Cost and Payment
We believe in transparency when it comes to the cost of your treatment. Before you begin your journey, we will provide you with a detailed cost breakdown, so you know exactly what to expect. The cost of your IVF with PGT treatment will depend on several factors, including the type of PGT required and the number of embryos tested.
Here is a general overview of the costs involved:
Service | Cost (USD) |
Base IVF Package | 2,390 |
Includes: Initial consultation, ovarian stimulation protocol, egg retrieval, ICSI/IMSI, embryo culture, and freeze-all strategy. | |
Monitoring in Istanbul | 320 |
IVF Medications (estimated) | 1,000 |
Embryo Freezing | 450 (for 1-2 embryos) + 125 for each additional 2 embryos |
Embryo Biopsy | 560 (for all embryos) |
PGT-A Testing | 450 per embryo |
PGT-M Testing | 2,500 (for 1-12 embryos) |
Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) | 1,250 |
FET Monitoring in Istanbul | 280 |
FET Medications (estimated) | 100-150 |
We accept various payment methods, including bank transfers and credit cards. Your patient coordinator will provide you with all the necessary details for making your payment.
What to Pack
Packing for a medical trip requires some special considerations. Here is a list of essential items to bring:
•Medical Documents: Your passport, visa (if required), medical records, and any other documents provided by our clinic.
•Medications: Any personal medications you take regularly, as well as the fertility medications prescribed by our doctors.
•Comfortable Clothing: Loose-fitting and comfortable clothing is recommended, especially after the egg retrieval and embryo transfer procedures.
•Entertainment: Books, magazines, a tablet, or a laptop to keep you entertained during your downtime.
•Adapters and Converters: Turkey uses the Europlug (Type C F), and the standard voltage is 220 V. Make sure to bring the necessary adapters and converters for your electronic devices.
Enjoying Istanbul
While your primary focus is your treatment, we encourage you to take some time to explore the beautiful city of Istanbul. Here are a few suggestions:
•Historic Sites: Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, the magnificent Blue Mosque, and the opulent Topkapi Palace.
•Shopping: Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar, where you can find everything from handmade carpets to exotic spices.
•Bosphorus Cruise: Take a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus strait and enjoy the stunning views of the city's skyline.
•Turkish Cuisine: Indulge in the delicious flavors of Turkish cuisine, from savory kebabs to sweet baklava.
Part 5: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions from our international patients:
How much does IVF with PGT cost in Turkey?
The cost of IVF with PGT in Turkey can vary depending on your individual needs. On average, you can expect the total cost to be between $7,000 and $10,000 USD. This is significantly more affordable than in many other countries, without compromising on the quality of care.
Is PGT-A cheaper than PGT-M?
Yes, PGT-A is generally less expensive than PGT-M. PGT-A costs $450 per embryo, while PGT-M costs $2,500 for up to 12 embryos. The reason for this price difference is that PGT-M requires the creation of a custom genetic probe for each couple, which is a more complex and labor-intensive process.
How long does the entire IVF with PGT process take?
The entire process, from your initial consultation to your pregnancy test, can take several months. However, your time in Istanbul is divided into two trips. The first trip for ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval is about 10-12 days. The second trip for the frozen embryo transfer is much shorter, only 2-3 days.
Can I travel alone?
Yes, you can travel alone. We have many patients who come to our clinic by themselves. Our team will be there to support you every step of the way, and you will never feel alone.
Is it safe to travel to Turkey for medical treatment?
Yes, it is very safe. Turkey has a world-class healthcare system and is a popular destination for medical tourism. Our clinic is located in a safe and modern part of Istanbul, and we take every precaution to ensure the safety and well-being of our patients.
Your Journey to Parenthood Starts Here
At Safemedigo, we are more than just a fertility clinic; we are a family of dedicated professionals who are passionate about helping you build your own family. We understand that the journey to parenthood can be challenging, but you don't have to go through it alone. We are here to guide you, support you, and provide you with the best possible care every step of the way.
If you are ready to take the first step on your journey to parenthood, we invite you to book a free online consultation with one of our fertility specialists. Let us help you turn your dream of having a family into a reality.