Denmark has been recently experiencing historically low fertility rates, with an average of fewer than 1.5 children per woman. However, the country provides fertility support, including options for those seeking a second child. Whether you are a resident or just considering treatment in Denmark, understanding your possibilities and the process can help you navigate fertility support more effectively.
Fertility Support in Denmark
Fertility treatment in Denmark is available both to couples and to single women.
Denmark offers free fertility treatments through the public healthcare system, including Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). Women must be referred before turning 40 and complete treatment by 41. You will need a valid Danish CPR number and a referral from a Danish general practitioner.
At public fertility clinics, women can receive fertility treatment until they turn 41. Treatment is free for the first child, and as of December 1, 2024, for a second child, provided the couple does not already have more than one shared child. Women are eligible for up to six free IVF treatment attempts for their first child and three free attempts for their second child at public fertility clinics.
If the chances of pregnancy using your eggs and your partner’s sperm are significantly reduced, you may be offered treatment with donor sperm or donor eggs. In private fertility clinics, you can also get additional treatments.
You can contact private clinics if you do not qualify for public support or prefer immediate treatment. Private clinics offer fertility treatments for women up to the age of 46. They also do not require referrals, often provide more personalized services, and have shorter waiting times. However, private treatment comes with expenses, and we look at those further below.
Regardless of whether you choose to be treated in a public or private clinic, you will get an assessment after each treatment attempt, and the staff will consult with you about whether it is advisable to continue.
Patients must pay for necessary fertility medication themselves, although financial subsidies are available under standard reimbursement rules. For more details on medication subsidies, visit sundhed.dk
Public health insurance provides financial support for insemination treatment at specialized medical practices and private fertility clinics. While the insemination procedure itself is free, single women and those with a female partner must pay for donor sperm if treated at a private specialist practice.
Types of Fertility Treatments
Fertility treatments in Denmark include:
- IUI (Intrauterine Insemination): A less invasive method commonly used by single women and same-sex couples.
- IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): A more complex procedure involving egg fertilization outside the body with a partner’s or donor’s sperm.
- ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): A specialized form of IVF where a single sperm is injected into an egg.
- Donor Options: Denmark offers anonymous and open donor sperm and egg options.
The Fertility Treatment Process
The process typically starts with a referral from a Danish GP (for public treatment) or a direct appointment at a private clinic. During the initial consultation, women undergo ultrasound scans and hormone blood tests to assess ovarian reserve, while men may be required to submit a semen sample for analysis. Blood tests for hepatitis, HIV, chlamydia, and rubella immunity are also mandatory.
After the health assessment, doctors recommend the most suitable fertility treatment. If donor sperm or eggs are needed, counseling and selection follow. Treatments align with the woman’s menstrual cycle; some procedures may involve hormonal stimulation.
What Are the Risks Involved in Fertility Treatments
While fertility treatments offer hope, they also come with risks. Some women experience Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), a rare but serious reaction to hormone treatments. There is also an increased likelihood of multiple pregnancies with IVF, which can carry additional health risks. Other potential concerns include ectopic pregnancy and the emotional toll that fertility treatment can take, especially when you need multiple attempts.
Costs of Fertility Treatments
Public-sector treatments are free for those who meet eligibility criteria. Private treatments, however, are expensive. IUI without referral costs approximately 5,500 DKK per treatment cycle. IVF treatments range from 23,000 to 33,500 DKK. Egg donation treatments cost 44,000 to 62,500 DKK. Additional costs may include donor sperm, extra consultations, and embryo storage.
What About a Second Child
As of December 2024, Denmark has expanded free IVF support to include those seeking a second child, provided the woman gets a referral before turning 40. This initiative aims to help families achieve their desired family size and address the country’s declining fertility rates.
Waiting Times for Fertility Treatment
Waiting times can vary depending on whether you choose public or private treatment. Private clinics usually have no waiting lists so you can start treatment immediately after the initial consultation. With public clinics, waiting times vary, but are generally manageable.
Time Off from Work During Fertility Treatment
Fertility treatment often requires some flexibility with work schedules. Certain procedures occur during working hours or you may need to attend appointments on short notice. While most clinic visits don’t require sick leave, timing can be unpredictable. For example, on the day of egg retrieval, it is generally recommended that women take the day off to rest. However, returning to work on the day of embryo transfer is usually fine.
Discussing your situation with your employer is a good idea, especially if you need to leave work occasionally for appointments. If that is not an option, consider planning visits as vacation days or using flexible work arrangements. Some fertility clinics also offer early morning scans for persons who have undergone treatment before, making it easier to balance appointments with work commitments.
How to Take Care of Yourself and Your Partner While in Treatment
Infertility is one of the most common health challenges for people aged 25-45. About one in ten children in Denmark is born through fertility treatment. Each year, around 40,000 treatments take place, but for many it can be a shock when natural conception turns out to be complicated. The journey can feel overwhelming, especially because you have so little control over the outcome.
The key to managing this uncertainty is to learn to accept the things that are out of your control. Not knowing when or if you’ll get pregnant can be stressful and emotionally challenging. Always remember: while medical aspects like egg count and implantation results are beyond your control, you can still influence your mindset and well-being.
Nature, movement, proper sleep, and good nutrition are vital during this time. You can also find support by connecting with others in similar situations or contacting organizations specializing in infertility counselling.
Acknowledge and accept difficult emotions like jealousy, frustration, or grief. They are a natural part of the treatment.
Be prepared for hard days. They will come. Make a list of things that help you. These can include mindfulness, therapy, self-care, or talking with a friend. Use these options regularly. Studies show that prolonged fertility treatment increases the risks of stress and depression, so it is essential to look for emotional support.
Most importantly, don’t hesitate to seek help. Talking to a professional or joining a support group can be invaluable when the journey feels too heavy. You don’t have to go through this alone.
Where to Find More Information
For the most up-to-date and detailed information, visit the websites of specialized fertility clinics or consult a doctor. You can also seek help and counseling at NGOs focusing on infertility, such as Fertility Care or Dansk Center for Infertilitet og Graviditetstab.
