I’m 35 and my spouse and I are considering assisted reproductive treatment. We do not have fertility coverage currently. If we purchase a comprehensive health insurance policy now, will it cover IVF or related procedures after waiting periods? Or are fertility treatments typically excluded regardless of policy duration?

Kiran Sharma

It is important to understand how health insurance aligns with fertility planning, both in terms of coverage and limitations. In India, most standard comprehensive health insurance policies do not cover IVF or other assisted reproductive treatments. These procedures are typically categorised as elective or planned interventions and therefore remain permanently excluded unless explicitly included within the policy.

This means that simply purchasing a comprehensive plan today will not automatically make IVF expenses eligible for reimbursement in the future.

That said, the insurance landscape is gradually evolving. A few insurers have begun offering specialised plans or add-on covers that include fertility-related benefits. However, such offerings are still limited and come with clearly defined conditions. These may include waiting periods, typically ranging from two to three years and sub-limits on the amount payable per IVF cycle, and eligibility criteria linked to age or medical history.

Given that fertility treatments can be expensive and often require multiple attempts, it is equally important to plan beyond insurance. Building a dedicated financial buffer or exploring structured financing options can help manage these costs more effectively.

Before finalising any policy, it is advisable to carefully review:

• Whether infertility treatments are explicitly included or excluded

• Applicable waiting periods and eligibility criteria

• Coverage for unsuccessful IVF cycles

• Sub-limits or caps on the benefits

The author is Head, Product Development, ManipalCigna Health Insurance

Published on May 2, 2026