If you are considering IVF (in vitro fertilization) or other fertility treatments in Lagos, this is a comprehensive guide what to expect, how much it costs, what services clinics offer, and how to choose the right fertility centre for your needs.
What Is IVF and Why People in Lagos Use It
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a medical procedure where a woman’s eggs are retrieved and fertilized outside the body (in a lab) with sperm, then the resulting embryo(s) are transferred into her uterus.
IVF — often combined with advanced techniques like Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) — is used to address several infertility challenges: blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, low sperm count or motility, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and “unexplained infertility.”
Many couples or individuals in Lagos and across Nigeria pursue IVF when natural conception fails or when there are medical complications.
What Does IVF Cost in Lagos? Typical Range & What Influences Price
Typical Cost Range
In Lagos, a single basic IVF cycle usually costs between ₦1,800,000 and ₦3,500,000.
If additional procedures are needed — like ICSI, embryo freezing, donor gametes, or genetic testing — the cost rises accordingly, sometimes significantly.
Some packages include medication, lab tests, monitoring, and embryo transfer, while others may charge for these separately — so it’s vital to request a full breakdown before committing.
What Drives the Cost
Treatment Complexity: Basic IVF vs. IVF + ICSI, donor eggs/sperm, frozen embryo transfer (FET), embryo freezing or storage, genetic testing.
Medications and Hormonal Drugs for ovarian stimulation.
Lab Work, Embryology & Technology Used: High-tech labs, embryo monitoring, quality assurance, and experienced embryologists often mean higher fees but better success chances.
Number of Cycles Required: Because IVF doesn’t guarantee pregnancy on the first try, many couples budget for multiple attempts.
Optional Services: Embryo freezing/storage, donor programs, genetic screening — all can add significantly to the total.
Important note: Always request a detailed written cost breakdown from a clinic, including medication, lab work, scans, possible add-ons and follow-up visits — not just the “base” fee.
What Services Do Lagos Fertility Clinics Offer?
Most of the well-established fertility clinics in Lagos offer a full suite of assisted reproductive services beyond just basic IVF. These commonly include:
Standard IVF (egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo transfer)
IVF + ICSI — often recommended when there are male-factor fertility issues (low sperm count or motility)
Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) and embryo storage / cryopreservation (for future use)
Donor egg or sperm programs (for couples where one partner’s gametes are not viable)
Genetic testing or embryo screening (e.g. Preimplantation Genetic Testing — PGT) in some cases, for couples with suspected genetic risks.
Fertility assessments (hormonal tests, ultrasound scans, semen analysis), counselling and supportive care (physical and emotional), pre- and post-treatment follow-up.
Because fertility issues can be complex and emotionally taxing, good clinics also offer psychological support, patient counselling, and transparent communication — not just medical procedures.
What to Expect: Success Rates & What Affects Them
Success rates vary widely depending on age, fertility condition, lab quality, and treatment type.
For younger women (often under 30), success per IVF cycle tends to be higher — some centres claim around 60 %+ for ideal cases.
For older women, or in complicated fertility cases (e.g. donor gametes, prior failed cycles, hormonal issues), success rates are generally lower — so multiple cycles might be necessary.
Because there is no standardized national database for IVF outcomes in Nigeria, take clinic-reported success rates with a measure of caution. It’s wise to ask clinics for age-based, per-cycle success statistics and ensure transparency.
How to Choose the Right IVF / Fertility Clinic in Lagos
When selecting a fertility clinic in Lagos — or anywhere in Nigeria — consider the following criteria carefully:
1. Clinic reputation & track record — look for a centre with many successful cycles, experienced specialists, and good patient feedback.
2. Transparency in pricing and service inclusions — ensure you get a full breakdown of costs including drugs, lab work, follow-up visits, embryo storage, possible extra procedures.
3. Range of offered services — depending on your fertility needs, you may require ICSI, donor programs, embryo freezing, etc. A clinic that offers a full range of ART (assisted reproductive technology) services gives more flexibility.
4. Quality of lab, embryologists, and technology — good success rates often depend on high-standard lab work and experienced embryologists.
5. Emotional and psychosocial support — fertility treatment can be stressful; clinics that provide counselling, patient education, and follow-up care offer better overall support.
6. Clear communication and realistic expectations — success is never guaranteed; clinics should explain risks, realistic chances, possible need for multiple cycles.
What You Should Do Before Starting IVF in Lagos
Before committing to IVF, consider taking these preparatory steps:
Undergo full fertility assessments (hormonal tests, ovarian reserve analysis, semen analysis) for both partners.
Ask clinics for a written cost breakdown, outlining what is included and what will be extra (medicines, lab work, storage, follow-up, etc.).
Consult more than one reputable clinic to compare pricing, services, success rates — and don’t be swayed only by lower cost; quality often matters more.
If possible, budget for more than one IVF cycle, as many couples need multiple tries for success.
Pay attention to the support system: emotional counselling, patient communication, transparency, and follow-up care.
Keep realistic expectations — success rates vary, depending heavily on age, fertility profile, and many variables.
Popular / Highly-Rated IVF & Fertility Clinics in Lagos (What to Look For)
Some of the clinics often recommended for fertility services in Lagos include:
The Bridge Clinic — a long-established centre offering IVF, ICSI, donor programs, embryo freezing, known for relatively high success rates.
Nordica Fertility Centre — recognized for advanced ART services and a patient-centred approach.
Gynescope Specialist Hospital — offers fertility assessments, male infertility treatment, and modern fertility services.
Other private ART-focused clinics and specialist hospitals providing IVF/ICSI, donor services, embryo freezing, and post-treatment support.
Tip: When contacting any clinic, ask about their success rates for patients in your age group, what’s included in their package, and whether they offer counselling and after-care support.
Final Thoughts — IVF in Lagos: Hope, Realism and Due Diligence
IVF offers a vital path to parenthood for many couples and individuals facing infertility in Lagos. With multiple reputable clinics offering modern fertility services, access to IVF is more available than ever.
But IVF is not a guarantee — success depends on many factors beyond the clinic: age, medical history, lifestyle, and sometimes chance. Because of the financial and emotional investment, couples should approach IVF with both hope and realistic expectations.
If you’re considering IVF in Lagos, take the time to research clinics thoroughly, ask detailed questions, and ensure you are comfortable with the team, the treatment plan, and the support they offer.
