Why Cyprus? Where the Dream of Starting a Family Comes True
For many couples, the journey to starting a family can be fraught with unexpected challenges. For those who wish to have a child of a specific gender for family planning reasons or to prevent the transmission of genetic diseases, gender selection offers a hopeful modern medical solution. In this field, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has become a prominent center for couples from all over the world. The reasons behind this include Cyprus’s geographical proximity, cost-effective treatment options, and the advanced technological facilities it offers in this area.
While the demand for gender selection may appear to be a simple “preference” on the surface, it can harbor deep emotional and personal motivations. Research shows that couples who make this decision have often struggled with years of hopelessness, repeated failed pregnancy attempts, and the trauma associated with genetic risks. Many patient stories describe how they achieved their happy ending in Cyprus after countless attempts at different centers. Some have endured heartbreaking experiences like three miscarriages , while others have battled diagnoses such as polycystic ovary syndrome or azoospermia. These couples, after learning that their babies couldn’t survive due to a genetic disorder or facing conditions like premature menopause, came to Cyprus for a final glimmer of hope. Therefore, the gender selection process is not just a medical procedure; it is a holistic approach that requires patients to feel secure and understood throughout this difficult emotional journey. This comprehensive guide aims to shed light on all aspects of this journey, providing potential patients with a roadmap for their first step and emphasizing the importance of a reliable partner who can be with them every step of the way.
Legal and Ethical Framework of Gender Selection Treatments: Everything You Need to Know
Northern Cyprus is one of the rare centers where gender selection in IVF treatments is legally permissible. This legal framework allows for gender determination for both medical necessities (preventing gender-linked genetic diseases) and social reasons (“family balancing”). This contrasts with the legal situation in Turkey, where the same procedure is only legal in the presence of genetic disease risks , and in the European Union member Southern Cyprus, where similar restrictions exist , making the TRNC an international hub for this field.
However, this legal status has some complex aspects. While some documents state that Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGT) cannot be used for the purpose of gender determination , other sources confirm that the procedure is generally legal in the TRNC. This discrepancy can be explained by the fact that some clinics prefer to combine PGT with sperm sorting methods like MicroSort, rather than using PGT alone as a gender selection tool. Using PGT alone could lead to the destruction of healthy embryos of the undesired sex. This may lead to ethical concerns for some clinics, causing them not to use this method for gender selection alone. This could also point to the adoption of different strategies in the competitive environment among IVF centers. As a result, this situation makes it difficult for potential patients to access accurate and up-to-date information. Therefore, it is crucial for couples to seek a reliable consultancy service to determine the most suitable treatment plan for their individual situation and to obtain the most accurate information about the legal and ethical frameworks.
Science and Medicine: Gender Selection Methods and the Step-by-Step Treatment Process
Gender selection has evolved from being an “urban legend” in the medical world to a scientific method with high success rates. This procedure is typically performed using two main methods integrated into the in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure: MicroSort and PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis).
MicroSort Method: This technology sorts male sperm according to their X (female) and Y (male) chromosomes. The sperm are stained with a fluorescent dye, and sperm carrying the X chromosome appear brighter as they contain more genetic material. This sorting process allows the desired gender’s sperm to be collected and used in either intrauterine insemination (IUI) or IVF procedures. The accuracy of this method for gender determination is approximately 70% for a boy and 75-80% for a girl, and several attempts may be necessary to increase the chance of pregnancy.
PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis) Method: PGT offers the highest certainty rate in gender selection. It is a laboratory technique that examines the genetic makeup of embryos created during an IVF treatment. During this procedure, cells are biopsied from the embryos and sent for chromosomal analysis in genetic laboratories. PGT is not only used for gender determination but also for screening embryos for the most common chromosomal abnormalities (Trisomy 21 – Down syndrome, Trisomy 18 – Edwards syndrome, and Trisomy 13 – Patau syndrome). This dual-purpose use combines the potential for both gender selection and increased chances of a healthy pregnancy. Especially considering the decline in egg quality and increased risk of genetic anomalies in women over 35, PGT screening offers a great assurance for the future baby’s genetic health.
Stages of the Treatment Process: Gender selection treatment generally spans a period of approximately 18-20 days. A large portion of this process is conducted in the couple’s home country under the coordination of a doctor.
- Preparation Phase (Approximately 10-12 days): Before starting treatment, the female patient’s egg reserve and uterine condition are evaluated through hormone tests (FSH, LH, Estradiol, AMH, etc.) and a gynecological examination. A sperm analysis is requested from the male patient. After these tests are completed, the female patient begins using certain medications to support egg development. These medications are administered via injection, and patients can perform this phase in their home country.
- Cyprus Phase (Approximately 5-7 days): When the eggs are mature, the couple must come to Cyprus. During this phase, the egg retrieval procedure is performed, and on the same day, a sperm sample is collected from the male partner. Fertilization is carried out to create embryos. The embryos are then sent to a genetic laboratory for gender and genetic examination. This process typically takes 5 days. The healthy embryo of the desired gender is then transferred to the mother’s uterus. This short stay minimizes the logistical burden on couples’ work and personal lives.
Success Rates and Safety Factors: Setting Realistic Expectations
One of the most frequently asked questions about gender selection treatments is how certain success is. The success rate for determining the gender of embryos using the PGT method is quite high, with sources stating this rate to be between 99% and 99.9%. Some clinics even state the success probability for gender determination as 100%. However, this rate refers to the success of the
gender determination procedure; the rates of achieving pregnancy and live birth depend on many different factors.
Factors that affect the overall success of the treatment include the woman’s age, egg reserve and quality, overall hormonal status, and the man’s sperm quality. For example, pregnancy success rates are higher in younger women under 35, while the number and quality of eggs decrease after age 35. Therefore, 100% gender determination success does not always guarantee 100% pregnancy. The pregnancy rates in gender selection can be around 20-25% for women under 35 and 10-12% for women over 35. This transparent sharing of information helps patients form realistic expectations and be prepared for potential challenges in the process, while also reinforcing the reliability of the clinic and service provider. It is important to note that even with a successful IVF and PGT procedure, there are accepted risks such as the possibility of a negative pregnancy result after embryo transfer or the embryo being damaged during the biopsy procedure. Although it is accepted that a biopsy performed by experienced hands does not negatively affect embryo development, the risk of embryo damage is approximately 1%.
Nevertheless, the gender selection procedure can also have a positive effect on increasing pregnancy success. By selecting healthy embryos through genetic screening, the chance of the pregnancy implanting increases, and the transfer of embryos carrying genetic problems is avoided. This is a great advantage, especially for couples who have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss or are carriers of genetic diseases. Patients can thus have both the baby of the desired gender and the assurance that their baby will be genetically healthy. The psychological relief that this process brings is of great importance, especially after a long treatment journey.
Gender Selection Prices and Cost Analysis
The prices for gender selection treatment in Cyprus vary depending on the chosen method and the clinic. Treatment packages usually include basic medical procedures, but there are additional expenses that affect the patient’s total cost. According to information obtained from different clinics, the main programs and their approximate costs for gender selection are as follows:
| Treatment Method | Price Range (Euro) | Additional Information |
| MicroSort IUI | €2,800 – €3,000 | Combination of IUI treatment and the MicroSort method. |
| MicroSort IVF | €3,700 – €4,200 | Combination of IVF treatment and the MicroSort method. |
| MicroSort IVF + PGT | €6,200 – €7,000 | In addition to IVF and MicroSort, genetic screening is performed on the embryos. |
These prices reflect average values obtained from different clinics and may vary due to current exchange rates, additional services, and individual circumstances.
Additional costs that are not typically included in the treatment cost, but should be considered in total budget planning, are:
- Medication Costs: The dosage and type of medications used for egg development vary depending on the patient’s hormonal status. Therefore, the cost of medication differs from person to person, and it is difficult to determine a precise price in advance.
- Infectious Disease Tests: As a safety precaution, both female and male patients are required to undergo infectious disease screening tests. The cost of these tests is approximately €200-€250 or 400 TL.
- Accommodation and Transportation: Accommodation and plane ticket expenses during the treatment period are covered by the patient. More affordable prices and transfer options can be found through contracted hotels in Cyprus. One-way plane ticket prices from Turkey to Cyprus start from ₺1,400.
The transparent explanation of treatment costs helps patients plan their budgets accurately and prevents them from encountering additional cost surprises throughout the process. This transparency is also one of the most important steps in building a relationship based on trust with patients.
Beyond Treatment: The “Cure holiday” Approach
IVF treatment in Cyprus is not just a medical process; it can also be seen as a “health holiday” experience that offers couples a chance to relax and unwind in the island’s unique natural and cultural environment. Since the average stay in Cyprus for the treatment process is 5-7 days , couples can use this time to create pleasant memories away from stress.
To ensure couples have the best experience, many centers provide support with accommodation and transportation. Contracted hotels are chosen to reduce the stress of the treatment process and provide a peaceful environment. Some of these hotels include Bella View Hotel, Altınkaya Hotel, Grand Pasha Nicosia, and Lord’s Palace Hotel, among others. Some hotels also offer amenities such as a SPA center, pool, and casino.
The physical and emotional burden of the treatment can be significantly alleviated in a holiday setting. This holistic approach prioritizes the patient’s overall well-being and psychological health, rather than just focusing on medical outcomes. It is believed that this approach can also have positive effects on the treatment’s success.
Conclusion: Take the First Step Towards Your Dream
IVF gender selection in Cyprus offers a promising option for couples worldwide, thanks to its legal advantages, advanced technological treatment methods, and competitive pricing. The use of methods like PGT not only for gender determination but also for selecting healthy embryos adds value to the treatment and provides an additional assurance about the genetic health of the baby.
It should not be forgotten that although this journey is based on scientific principles, it is a personal process. In this process, it is of great importance to obtain the right information, manage expectations realistically, and move forward with a reliable partner.
To take the first step on the road to the family of your dreams, do not hesitate to contact a consultancy service where you can find answers to all your questions and receive a personalized treatment plan and budget analysis. Our experts are ready to guide you on this difficult yet hopeful journey. Do not postpone your dream of starting a family; contact us today.
