Updated on - 09 Feb 2026
Infertility is a growing health concern in India; 1 in every 151 couples in the country faces infertility. Stress, late marriages, obesity, smoking, alcohol and poor lifestyle choices only add to the problem, leaving couples with emotional and financial scars.
The brighter side? Infertility can be treated with medication and ART (Assisted Reproductive Techniques). Even so, many couples say the high cost of infertility treatment is an obstacle. However, with proper medical insurance, the dream of parenthood is achievable.
What are the causes of infertility?
Infertility can result from various causes affecting either women or men, or sometimes both. Problems with ovulation, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, premature ovarian failure and hormonal imbalances are considered common causes of infertility in women. Pregnancy may also be prevented due to structural issues like blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, uterine fibroids or endometriosis.
The most common causes for male infertility involve poor or low sperm production, low sperm count, weak sperm movement and abnormal sperm shape.
Are infertility treatments covered under health insurance?
Most health insurance policies don’t cover infertility treatments like IVF by default. Some insurers offer partial benefits or riders for treatments such as IUI. IVF may be included in certain insurance plans only under specific conditions, like extended waiting periods, a limit on the number of cycles or as an optional add-on. It’s crucial to review policy details and exclusions carefully before assuming coverage.
Infertility treatment procedures covered under health insurance
While infertility treatments include a considerable range of different procedures, some are included by many health insurance policies, while others are not. We’ve mentioned them below:
- IUI (Intra-uterine insemination): Rarely covered under standard health insurance. Some insurers may provide partial coverage through specialised add-ons.
- IVF (in vitro fertilisation): This is a high-cost treatment involving multiple stages. Most standard policies exclude IVF, though some insurers now offer it as an optional add-on with conditions such as waiting periods, sub-limits or limits on cycles.
Things to review before buying health insurance for infertility treatment
As different infertility treatment procedures have different rates and not all health insurance covers all of them, it is important to keep certain factors in mind before buying a policy.
- Check the eligibility criteria. To avail of this benefit, you may need to opt for a sum insured above a specific amount, such as five lakhs.
- Verify whether the cost of diagnosing infertility is covered or not.
- Check what infertility procedures are covered by the health insurance policy.
- Check the limitations of the policy for those covered procedures. For example, it may or may not provide full coverage or may cover only a limited number of cycles.
- Determine the waiting period before you can claim the policy (that might range up to 6 years).
- Check if the cost of medicines is covered under that policy. Infertility treatments require a lot of medications, which come with hefty charges.
- Determine what add-ons are provided by that particular insurance policy that might be useful when you need to opt for several treatment procedures.
How infertility treatment costs impact financial planning
A single IVF cycle can cost between ₹50,000 and ₹2,50,000, and several cycles are usually needed for success. Medication, lab tests, consultations and pre-treatment checks have become costlier, and follow-ups also add to the financial strain.
Infertility treatments are not accessible to many couples due to the high cost of treatment, emphasising the need for better financial planning and support schemes. Some clinics promote “no-cost EMI” offers to attract couples. However, they may hide financing charges, which lead to higher long-term expenses.
Common myths about health insurance and infertility treatment
There are various myths people still believe in while looking for health insurance for infertility treatment.
- Myth: IVF is never covered by India's insurance.
Reality: Many insurance companies now offer partial or even full coverage for specific infertility treatments.
- Myth: IVF is carried out only in private clinics.
Reality: Government hospitals and empanelled private hospitals also provide subsidised IVF services.
- Myth: IVF guarantees success.
Reality: Success rates vary between 30% and 60% depending on age, health and the expertise of the clinic, and multiple cycles are often needed.
Government schemes and support for infertility treatment
While India does not yet have a universal IVF scheme, both central and state initiatives offer some assistance.
Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY – Ayushman Bharat)
- Coverage: Up to ₹5 lakh per family/annum for secondary and tertiary care
- Eligibility depends on SECC data.
- IVF is not widely covered, but some infertility-related procedures may be available in empanelled hospitals.
Employee State Insurance Scheme (ESIS)
- Beneficiaries: Employees earning up to ₹21,000 per month
- IVF: Covered if recommended by ESIS doctors and available in empanelled hospitals
Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS)
- Beneficiaries: Central government staff and pensioners
- IVF: Not covered, but can include consultations and basic infertility tests.
Conclusion
IUI and IVF treatments have become more approachable for couples who face fertility issues through government support and recognition in insurance plans. Many insurers now offer fertility coverage as add-ons or within comprehensive health policies. This growing network of financial support is gradually removing cost barriers that once prevented many families from pursuing their dream of parenthood.
To explore your medical insurance options for infertility treatment, fill out the form on this page. Our experts will provide personalised advice and solutions that meet your needs.
FAQs
1: Are diagnostic tests for infertility covered under health insurance plans?
Diagnostic tests for infertility are not a standard benefit in most health insurance policies. However, some insurers offer it as an add-on option.
2. Can health insurance help cover the cost of counselling or psychological support for infertility?
Some insurers may extend coverage for mental health consultations or counselling, but this depends on the specific plan under your health insurance policy.
3. Does infertility coverage come as a standard benefit or an add-on?
Infertility-related coverage is not a standard benefit in most health insurance policies. It may be offered as an add-on option in some cases.
Disclaimer: This blog provides information regarding the health insurance cover for infertility treatment. The information provided here, is for education and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. Verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.