In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a beacon of hope for couples who want children but cannot conceive naturally. This method, which offers a solution to the infertility problems experienced by millions of couples in Turkey, is applied in both public hospitals and private clinics. One of the most frequently asked questions is: Does the Social Security Institution (SGK) cover IVF treatment, and what are the conditions?
The Social Security Institution (SGK) covers a significant portion of IVF costs when certain conditions are met. However, this support is not available to everyone; there are specific criteria including age limits, marital status and required insurance premium days. In this article we will examine in detail SGK’s IVF requirements, age criteria, which treatment stages are covered and what to watch for during the process.
The Importance of IVF and Its Practice in Turkey
In Turkey, one in seven couples faces infertility. This leads hundreds of thousands of families to seek care at IVF centers every year. IVF treatment is one of the most advanced methods that can address both female-related and male-related infertility issues.
- In women: ovulation disorders, blocked fallopian tubes, premature ovarian insufficiency
- In men: low sperm count, poor sperm motility, genetic problems—when these prevent pregnancy, IVF may be recommended.
Turkey has become one of the world’s preferred destinations for IVF, largely thanks to state support and advanced technology available in private centers.
Does SGK Cover IVF?
SGK covers a large portion of IVF expenses when the specified conditions are met. This support helps couples access an otherwise costly treatment under more affordable conditions. However, which procedures are covered and how much is paid depend on SGK regulations and whether the hospital has a contract with SGK.
SGK’s General Approach to IVF
- SGK provides IVF support only to married couples.
- There are specific age criteria.
- The couple must have tried to conceive naturally for at least two years without success.
- Insurance duration and the number of premium days are important.
What Are the SGK IVF Requirements?
- Marital requirement: The couple must be legally married.
- Insurance period: Either the woman or the man must have at least five years of social insurance and 900 days of paid premiums.
- Age criterion: The woman must be between 23 and 39 years old.
- Medical report: A documented report from a university or training and research hospital stating that IVF is necessary is required.
- History of unsuccessful treatments: It must be documented that other treatments were attempted and failed.
Summary of SGK IVF Conditions
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Marital status | Official marriage is required |
| Insurance | At least 5 years, 900 premium days |
| Age | For women: 23–39 years |
| Medical report | From a training and research or university hospital |
| Previous treatments | Failure of other methods must be documented |
SGK IVF Age Limit for 2025
SGK grants IVF support for women aged between 23 and 39.
- There is no support for women under 23.
- Women who have reached 40 receive no SGK payment.
These age criteria are set based on the period when success rates tend to be highest.
SGK Age Criteria for IVF
| Woman’s age | SGK support status |
|---|---|
| 22 and under | No support |
| 23 – 39 | Support provided |
| 40 and over | No support |
Treatment Stages Covered by SGK
SGK pays for some stages of the IVF process, while other expenses remain the responsibility of the couple.
Covered by SGK
- Majority of medication costs
- Laboratory tests
- Oocyte retrieval
- Embryo transfer
Not Covered by SGK
- Certain advanced genetic tests (PGT, etc.)
- Embryo freezing and storage
- Private hospital surcharge fees
- Costs for treatment abroad
Procedures SGK Covers and Does Not Cover
| Procedure | SGK status |
|---|---|
| Ovulation medications | Covered |
| Laboratory tests | Covered |
| Embryo transfer | Covered |
| Genetic tests | Not covered |
| Embryo freezing | Not covered |
| Private hospital surcharge | Not covered |
SGK Contribution Share and Additional Payments
Although SGK covers most costs, couples must still pay certain co-payments. These fees vary depending on the hospital and the treatment chosen.
- The co-payment is around 20%.
- Additional fees may apply at private hospitals.
- Some medicines are not fully covered by SGK.
Typical Contribution Amounts
| Treatment stage | SGK support | Patient payment |
|---|---|---|
| Medications | 80–90% | 10–20% |
| Tests | 100% | None |
| Embryo transfer | 100% | None |
| Additional tests | Not covered | Fully paid by the couple |
Relationship Between State Support and Private Hospitals
SGK works only with contracted private hospitals. If a hospital is not contracted with SGK, the couple must pay all expenses. Even in contracted centers, additional surcharge fees may apply.
Differences Between Public and Private Hospitals
| Criterion | Public hospital | Private hospital |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | SGK covers most | SGK support plus surcharge |
| Waiting time | May be long | Shorter |
| Technology | Standard | More advanced |
| Comfort | Moderate | Higher |
Step-by-Step SGK IVF Process
Application Process
Couples are first referred to a family physician and then to an obstetrician-gynecologist.
Obtaining the Report
A formal report is obtained from a university or training and research hospital.
Treatment Start
Once approval is granted, the IVF center begins treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Under what conditions does SGK cover IVF?
Support is provided when marital status, insurance duration, premium days and age criteria are met.
2. What is the age limit for SGK-supported IVF?
The woman should be between 23 and 39 years old.
3. How many IVF attempts does SGK support?
Generally, support is provided for up to three attempts.
4. Does SGK cover IVF costs at private hospitals?
Support applies at SGK-contracted private hospitals, but additional surcharge fees may be charged.
5. Does SGK cover all IVF expenses?
No. SGK covers only specified portions; some medications and procedures remain the responsibility of the couple.