IVF in Thailand attracts over 20,000 international patients annually, offering success rates of 45-65% at just 30-50% of Western costs. Thai fertility clinics combine internationally accredited facilities with specialists who trained at prestigious medical institutions across Europe and America.
What sets Thai fertility centers apart is their comprehensive approach—personalized treatment plans, minimal waiting times, and Thailand's renowned hospitality create an ideal environment for patients during their fertility journey.
Ready to explore how Thailand's world-class IVF treatment could help you achieve your dream of parenthood? Continue reading to discover everything you need to know.
Key Takeaways
Thailand performs over 10,000 IVF cycles for international patients annually, making it Asia's 2nd largest fertility tourism destination.
IVF success rates in top Thai clinics reach up to 65% for women under 35, exceeding global averages by 10-15%.
International patients save 60-70% on IVF costs compared to the US, with a complete cycle averaging $4,500-6,000 versus $12,000-15,000.
Over 90% of fertility specialists in Bangkok's leading clinics hold international certifications from the US, UK, or Australia.
Thailand's medical tourism infrastructure includes 38 JCI-accredited hospitals, more than any other Southeast Asian country.
Table of Contents
- The Thai Medical System for Fertility Treatments
- How to Choose a Fertility Center?
- IVF Treatment Procedures in Thailand
- Advanced IVF Techniques in Thailand
- Male Fertility Treatments in Thailand
- Alternative Fertility Treatments
- Success Rates and Outcomes
- Medical Tourism for IVF in Thailand
- Practical Guide for International Patients
- Patient Experiences with IVF in Thailand
- How Bookimed Can Help with Your IVF Journey in Thailand
- FAQ
The Thai Medical System for Infertility Treatments
Thailand’s healthcare system ranks among the best in Southeast Asia. The country maintains strict medical standards for fertility treatments through oversight by the Royal Thai College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Thai hospitals offering fertility services typically hold international accreditations such as JCI (Joint Commission International) or ISO certifications. These credentials ensure the facilities meet global standards for safety, hygiene, and quality care.
The Thai medical system divides fertility treatment facilities into several categories:
Hospital fertility centers. Large multi-specialty hospitals with dedicated reproductive medicine departments offering comprehensive care.
Specialized fertility clinics. Independent facilities focusing exclusively on reproductive treatments.
University medical centers. Teaching hospitals with research capabilities and advanced treatment options.
Diagnostic tests, such as semen analysis for men and hormone tests along with pelvic ultrasounds for women, are crucial in identifying the causes of infertility and developing tailored treatment plans.
Most facilities offering IVF in Thailand have English-speaking staff, making communication straightforward for international patients. Many clinics also provide interpreter services for patients from non-English speaking countries.
Required qualifications for fertility specialists in Thailand
Doctors practicing reproductive medicine in Thailand undergo rigorous training. The minimum requirements include:
medical degree from an accredited institution;
specialization in obstetrics and gynecology;
subspecialty training in reproductive endocrinology and infertility;
certification by the Thai Medical Council.
The leading fertility specialists have additional international qualifications from the US, UK, Australia, or Japan, bringing diverse treatment approaches to their practice in Thailand.
How to Choose a Fertility Center?
When choosing a fertility center, it is essential to consider several factors, including the center’s success rates, experience, and reputation. A good fertility center should have a comprehensive range of fertility treatments, including assisted reproductive technology (ART), IVF, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and intrauterine insemination (IUI). The center should also have a team of experienced fertility specialists and support staff who can provide personalized care and guidance throughout the treatment process.
- Ranked as the 3rd standalone clinic in Thailand with JCI's Ambulatory Care Accreditation.
- Every year, 4,000 patients choose IVF treatment at Prime Fertility Clinic.
- Specializes in IVF with professional embryologists and nurses in a fully equipped center.
- Offers comprehensive IVF services for patients from Asia, the USA, Canada, and Australia.
- Certified by the International Organization for Standardization for quality assurance in IVF procedures.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Additionally, the center should be equipped with the latest technology and equipment to ensure the best possible outcomes. In Thailand, there are several reputable fertility centers, including Prime Fertility Clinic and Bumrungrad Hospital, which offer high-quality fertility treatments and have up to 65% success rates.
- Certified by the Royal Thai College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists for IVF expertise.
- High success rates in IVF due to skilled evaluations and personalized care plans.
- Offers a comprehensive range of fertility treatments tailored to individual needs.
- State-of-the-art lab facilities enhance the accuracy of IVF procedures.
- Provides a welcoming atmosphere for a comfortable IVF journey.
Bumrungrad International Hospital is a world-renowned medical facility in Bangkok, Thailand that provides a wide range of services and treatments. With over 1 million patients from 190 countries, the hospital is one of the largest and most technologically advanced clinics in Southeast Asia. The hospital offers a wide range of services from check-ups to heart surgery and specializes in In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) procedure. The medical team is highly professional and friendly, and patients have praised the hospital for its excellent care and support. The hospital's IVF Basic Package is offered by Doctor Phattaraphum Phophong, a Reproduction specialist and IVF specialist at Bumrungrad International Hospital.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) | $9755 - $12260 |
IVF Treatment Procedures in Thailand
The IVF process in Thailand follows internationally recognized protocols while adding elements of Thai hospitality to enhance the patient experience. Medications play a crucial role in stimulating egg production to enhance conception chances, often involving oral or injectable ovulation-stimulating drugs. Additionally, embryo implantation is a critical step in IVF procedures, involving techniques like assisted hatching and careful embryo selection to ensure the best chances of successful implantation.
Standard IVF Protocol in Thailand
The typical IVF journey includes these key stages:
Initial consultation. Comprehensive evaluation of medical history, fertility tests, and treatment planning.
Ovarian stimulation. Medication to encourage multiple egg development, with careful monitoring via ultrasound and blood tests.
Egg retrieval. Minimally invasive procedure performed under sedation to collect mature eggs.
Fertilization. Combining eggs with sperm in the laboratory environment.
Embryo culture. Monitoring embryo development for 3-5 days.
Embryo transfer. Placing selected embryos into the uterus using ultrasound guidance.
Luteal phase support. Hormonal supplementation to support early pregnancy.
Most clinics in Thailand offer private recovery rooms and personalized care throughout the process. The entire IVF cycle typically requires 2-3 weeks in Thailand, with flexibility for those combining treatment with tourism.
Medication and monitoring practices
Thai fertility centers use FDA-approved hormonal medications including Gonal-F, Menopur, Cetrotide, and Ovidrel—identical to those used in leading clinics of the USA, UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Treatment protocols include daily ultrasound monitoring and hormone level testing to optimize outcomes.
Advanced IVF Techniques in Thailand's Fertility Centers
Thailand stays current with global advances in reproductive technology. Many clinics offer specialized techniques to address specific fertility challenges.
IVF and ICSI combined approaches
ICSI is widely available in Thailand and often recommended for:
male factor infertility;
previous fertilization failure with conventional IVF;
unexplained infertility;
advanced maternal age.
The procedure involves selecting a single healthy sperm and injecting it directly into the egg, enhancing fertilization chances. Most Thai fertility labs perform ICSI with state-of-the-art micromanipulation equipment under strict quality control measures.
Laboratory enhancements for IVF success
Top fertility centers in Thailand offer various laboratory techniques to improve IVF outcomes:
Assisted hatching. Creating a small opening in the embryo's outer shell to facilitate implantation.
Embryo glue. Special culture medium containing adhesion molecules to improve implantation rates.
Time-lapse embryo monitoring. Continuous observation of embryo development without disturbing culture conditions.
Blastocyst culture. Extended embryo development to the blastocyst stage (day 5-6) for better selection.
These advanced techniques come standard in many Thai IVF packages, while they might incur substantial additional costs in Western countries.
Fertility Preservation
Fertility preservation is a crucial aspect of fertility treatments, allowing individuals to preserve their reproductive cells for future use. This can be particularly useful for individuals who are undergoing cancer treatment, have a family history of genetic diseases, or are experiencing infertility issues.
Fertility preservation techniques include egg freezing, sperm freezing, and embryo freezing, which involve freezing eggs, sperm, or embryos at extremely low temperatures to preserve their viability. By preserving fertility, individuals can increase their chances of conceiving in the future and achieve their dream of parenthood.
Genetic Testing and Counseling
Genetic testing and counseling are essential components of fertility treatments, particularly for individuals who have a family history of genetic diseases. Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) are two techniques used to identify genetic abnormalities in embryos. These techniques involve analyzing the embryos for chromosomal abnormalities and genetic diseases, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their fertility treatment. Genetic testing and counseling can help individuals reduce the risk of passing genetic diseases to their offspring and increase their chances of having a healthy baby.
Male Fertility Treatments in Thailand
Thailand offers comprehensive solutions for male factor infertility alongside female fertility treatments. Sperm analysis is crucial in evaluating male fertility and plays a significant role in developing effective treatment plans. Assessing sperm quality through semen analysis is essential for diagnosing male infertility issues.
Sperm retrieval methods in Thailand
For men with severe male factor infertility or azoospermia, Thai fertility specialists perform various sperm retrieval techniques:
- PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration). Extracting sperm directly from the epididymis using a fine needle.
- TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction). Surgical removal of small tissue samples from the testicle to extract sperm.
- Micro-TESE. Advanced microsurgical technique for precise extraction of sperm-producing tubules.
These procedures are performed by urologists specializing in male reproductive health, often working alongside fertility specialists for coordinated care.
Diagnostic testing for male fertility
Before recommending treatment, thorough evaluation includes:
comprehensive semen analysis with strict Kruger morphology assessment;
sperm DNA fragmentation testing;
hormonal profiling;
genetic testing when indicated.
Thai laboratories use international standards for semen analysis, ensuring accurate diagnosis of male fertility issues.
Alternative Fertility Treatments
IVF isn’t always the first treatment recommendation. Thai fertility centers offer various approaches based on individual circumstances. Conventional therapies, including fertility drugs, are often used in conjunction with advanced reproductive procedures like IVF and IUI to enhance success rates. Tracking ovulation is also crucial in procedures like IUI to optimize the timing of sperm insertion.
Intrauterine insemination treatment options in Thailand
IUI serves as a less invasive and more affordable option for suitable candidates. The procedure involves:
mild ovarian stimulation with oral medications or low-dose injectables;
monitoring follicle development with ultrasound;
preparing and concentrating sperm in the laboratory;
placing washed sperm directly into the uterus using a thin catheter.
IUI in Thailand typically costs 25-30% of a full IVF cycle, making it an accessible first step for many patients. Success rates vary based on age and diagnosis but average 10-15% per cycle for women under 35.
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When to choose each treatment
Thai fertility specialists typically recommend:
starting with IUI for unexplained infertility, minor male factor issues, or cervical factor infertility;
moving to IVF for tubal blockage, severe endometriosis, or after unsuccessful IUI attempts;
proceeding directly to IVF with ICSI for severe male factor infertility or advanced maternal age.
Most clinics offer consultation packages that include comprehensive diagnostic testing to determine the most appropriate treatment path.
- Dr. Poonkiat Punyamitr has a certificate of assisted reproductive technology specialist from the Royal Thai College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
- Prime Fertility Clinic is the 3rd standalone clinic in Thailand to achieve JCI's ambulatory care accreditation.
- Included Services: Video or text consultation.
- Stay Info: Accommodation is not included, 0 days stay in the hospital, 0 days stay in the hotel.
- Dr. Phattaraphum Phophong achieved the Young Gynecologist Award at the AOFOG Annual Conference.
- IVF & Women Clinic specializes in advanced infertility treatments like IVF, ICSI, and PGT.
- Included Services: Blood tests, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), ultrasound, hormone tests, embryo transfer, medications, stimulation medications.
- Stay Info: Accommodation and transfer are not included.
- Dr. Poonkiat Punyamitr achieved a certificate of assisted reproductive technology specialist from the Royal Thai College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
- Prime Fertility Clinic is the 3rd standalone clinic in Thailand to achieve JCI's ambulatory care accreditation.
- Included Services: Follow-up visit.
- Dr. Poonkiat Punyamitr has a certificate of assisted reproductive technology specialist from the Royal Thai College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
- Prime Fertility Clinic is the 3rd standalone clinic in Thailand to achieve JCI's Ambulatory Care Accreditation.
- Included Services: Spermiogram, blood tests, VDRL, anti-HIV test, stimulation medications, ultrasound, complete blood count (CBC), consultation with a gynecologist.
- Dr. Orasa Teerakul achieved a diploma in obstetrics and gynecology from Siriraj Hospital.
- Intrarat Hospital is ISO 9001:2015 certified, ensuring high-quality management and patient care.
- Included services: Medications, hospitalization.
- Stay info: 2 days stay in the hospital, no hotel stay included.
IVF Success Rates and Outcomes
IVF success rates in Thailand compare favorably with those reported by clinics in Europe and North America. Leading Thai fertility centers maintain success rates of:
45-55% for women under 35;
35-45% for women aged 35-37;
25-35% for women aged 38-40;
15-25% for women over 40.
These figures represent clinical pregnancy rates per embryo transfer. Live birth rates typically run 5-10% lower than clinical pregnancy rates due to natural pregnancy loss.
Factors affecting IVF outcomes in Thailand
Several key factors influence treatment success:
Maternal age. The strongest predictor of IVF success, with significantly higher rates for younger patients.
Cause of infertility. Some diagnoses have better prognosis than others.
Previous pregnancy history. Prior successful pregnancies improve chances.
Embryo quality. Blastocyst transfers generally yield higher success rates.
Clinic experience. Centers performing higher volumes of IVF cycles often report better outcomes.
Multiple attempts. Undergoing several cycles of donor egg IVF can significantly improve success rates, especially for couples facing challenging infertility issues.
Thai clinics typically provide transparent success rate reporting during consultations, allowing patients to make informed decisions about treatment.
Medical Tourism for IVF in Thailand
Medical tourism for fertility treatment offers unique advantages. Thailand has developed specialized services to support international patients throughout their treatment journey. Genetic testing can improve the chances of conception by identifying and addressing genetic issues. Additionally, tailored treatment plans combining various ART procedures can increase success rates for infertility treatments.
Benefits of choosing Thailand for IVF
The country stands out for several reasons:
cost savings of 50-70% compared to US, UK, or Australian treatment;
minimal waiting time for procedures;
access to treatments sometimes restricted in home countries;
privacy and confidentiality;
opportunity to recover in a relaxing vacation environment.
Many international patients report that the reduced stress and supportive environment positively impact their fertility treatment experience.
The "IVF vacation" concept
Combining fertility treatment with Thailand's natural beauty and hospitality creates what many call an "IVF vacation." This approach:
reduces stress through relaxation and wellness activities;
provides distraction during waiting periods between appointments;
offers partners shared experiences during a challenging time;
includes recovery in peaceful surroundings after procedures.
Many couples choose to spend time at beach resorts in Phuket or Koh Samui between fertility clinic visits in Bangkok, creating a more balanced treatment experience.
Practical Guide for International Patients
Planning IVF treatment abroad requires careful preparation. When selecting a fertility clinic, consider the following factors: success rates, experience, and cost implications. Here’s what international patients should know about treatment in Thailand.
Medical visa information
Thailand offers specific visa options for medical travelers:
Non-immigrant O-A (Medical Treatment) visa. Allows stays up to 90 days specifically for medical purposes.
Medical Tourist Visa. Permits 60-day stays with possible extension.
Tourist visa. Sufficient for shorter treatments lasting under 30 days.
Visa applications require documentation from your chosen fertility clinic confirming your treatment plan. Bookimed can assist with obtaining the necessary paperwork.
Visa Requirements for IVF Treatment in Thailand
| Country | Visa Type | Duration | Requirements | Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USA | Medical Tourist Visa | 60 days (extendable) | Passport valid 6+ months, clinic confirmation letter, return ticket | Online or at Thai embassy/consulate, $40-60 fee |
| UK | Non-immigrant O-A (Medical) | 90 days | Passport, clinic appointment, financial proof ($10,000+), return ticket | Apply at Thai embassy in London, £60 fee |
| EU Countries | Medical Tourist Visa or Tourist Visa | 60 days (Medical) or 30 days (Tourist) | Passport, treatment confirmation, travel insurance | Schengen residents: apply online or on arrival, €30-40 |
| Australia | Tourist Visa (for treatments under 30 days) | 30 days | Passport, clinic letter, return flight | Electronic visa (eVisa) available, AUD $40 |
| New Zealand | Tourist Visa with medical notation | 30 days | Passport valid 6+ months, clinic documents | Online application, NZD $35 |
Note: Bookimed assists all patients with obtaining necessary documentation from fertility clinics for visa applications. For treatments requiring longer stays, visa extensions can be arranged in Thailand.
For all countries: Medical insurance covering fertility treatment in Thailand is strongly recommended.
Communication and language considerations
English serves as the primary language for international patient services in Thai fertility clinics. Additional support includes:
multilingual patient coordinators for major languages;
translation services for medical documents;
printed materials in multiple languages;
interpreter services for doctor consultations when needed.
Most medical staff at international hospitals and clinics speak excellent English, ensuring clear communication about complex fertility treatments.
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Accommodation and logistics
Staying comfortable during treatment matters. Options include:
serviced apartments near fertility clinics for extended stays;
hotel packages designed for medical tourists;
combined treatment and accommodation packages through facilitators.
Many clinics partner with nearby accommodations offering special rates and transportation services for fertility patients.
Cost and Financing
The cost of fertility treatments can be a significant factor for individuals and couples seeking to conceive. In Thailand, the cost of fertility treatments is generally affordable, with IVF costs ranging from $4,500-$6,000 (฿150,000-฿200,000). However, the cost can vary depending on individual fertility factors, such as age and fertility issues.
Financing options are also available for individuals who may not be able to afford the cost of fertility treatments. Some fertility centers offer financing packages and payment plans to help individuals access fertility treatments. Additionally, some insurance companies may cover the cost of fertility treatments, depending on the individual’s policy.
Patient Experiences with IVF in Thailand
Patient testimonials highlight several common themes about IVF treatment in Thailand:
appreciation for the compassionate care and emotional support;
satisfaction with the modern facilities and technology;
positive experiences with clear communication and thorough explanations;
value for money compared to treatment costs in Western countries.
Reviews frequently mention the comprehensive nature of treatment packages, which often include services that would cost extra in other countries.
Photo by Freepik
How Bookimed Can Help with Your IVF Journey in Thailand
Navigating fertility treatment abroad becomes simpler with specialized assistance. Bookimed offers comprehensive support for patients seeking IVF in Thailand.
Bookimed's fertility patient services
The platform provides end-to-end assistance including:
free consultation with fertility treatment coordinators;
matching with suitable fertility specialists based on your specific case;
direct communication with doctors before traveling;
appointment scheduling and treatment coordination;
assistance with medical documentation and translation;
accommodation arrangements near your chosen clinic;
transportation coordination for medical appointments;
24/7 support throughout your treatment journey.
Bookimed's services come at no additional cost to patients, as the organization partners directly with leading fertility clinics.
Getting started with Bookimed
Beginning your fertility journey with Bookimed involves three simple steps:
Submit your medical history through the secure online platform.
Receive personalized treatment recommendations within 24 hours.
Connect with your personal coordinator to plan your fertility journey in Thailand.
This streamlined process eliminates guesswork and ensures you receive appropriate care for your specific situation.
FAQ
How long do I need to stay in Thailand for IVF treatment? Most IVF cycles require a stay of 2-3 weeks for a complete fresh cycle. If you're doing a frozen embryo transfer, you'll need about 7-10 days.
Is IVF in Thailand legal for single women or same-sex couples? Yes, Thailand allows IVF treatment for single women and female same-sex couples. Some restrictions apply to surrogacy arrangements.
What documents do I need to bring for treatment? Bring your medical records, previous fertility treatment reports, passport, and payment method. Having records translated to English beforehand saves time.
Can I combine IVF treatment with tourism activities? Yes, many patients explore Thailand during non-treatment days. Just avoid strenuous activities, extreme heat, or swimming after egg retrieval or embryo transfer.
How do I continue care after returning to my home country? Thai clinics provide detailed discharge summaries and pregnancy monitoring protocols to share with your home doctor. Many also offer virtual follow-up consultations.
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Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences. "Cross Border Reproductive Care: Opportunities and Challenges." 2022. https://www.jhrsonline.org
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International Federation of Fertility Societies. "Global Surveillance of Assisted Reproductive Technologies." 2022. https://www.iffsreproduction.org
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World Health Organization. "Current Practices and Controversies in Assisted Reproduction." 2023. https://www.who.int/publications