Cross-border reproductive care use by women with infertility in Hong Kong: cross-sectional survey

OBJECTIVES Cross-border reproductive care (CBRC) is an increasingly common global phenomenon, but there is a lack of information regarding its frequency among residents of Hong Kong. This study aimed to evaluate the use of CBRC and the factors affecting its use among residents of Hong Kong. METHODS This cross-sectional questionnaire study collected data from 1204 women with infertility who attended Hong Kong Hospital Authority and Family Planning Association infertility clinics. RESULTS In total, 178 women (14.8% of all respondents) had used CBRC. Among respondents who had not used CBRC, 36.3% planned to use or would consider it. The main factors influencing the likelihood of using CBRC among women with infertility in Hong Kong use were long waiting times in the public sector and high cost in the private sector. Taiwan was the most preferred destination for CBRC (69.6% of respondents). Most information concerning CBRC was accessed via the internet. More than two thirds of respondents believed that the government in Hong Kong should formulate some regulations or guidance regarding CBRC. CONCLUSION Nearly one in six women with infertility in Hong Kong had used CBRC. Among women who had not used CBRC, more than one third planned to use or would consider it. The main factors influencing the likelihood of CBRC use were long waiting times in the public sector and high cost in the private sector. These results will help clinicians to more effectively counsel patients considering CBRC and facilitate infertility services planning by authorities in Hong Kong.