Documentation
- Valid passport (and, if required, visa) for the patient and any traveling partner.
- Photo ID accepted at the U.S.–Mexico border (e.g., SENTRI for expedited crossings).
- Copies of medical records, prior imaging, and lab results to share with the clinical team.
- Travel insurance and copies of any home-country health-coverage information.
Border Crossing Options
Tijuana is accessible from San Diego via the San Ysidro and Otay Mesa land crossings, and via the Cross Border Xpress (CBX) pedestrian bridge for travelers using Tijuana International Airport. SENTRI lanes can significantly reduce wait times for eligible travelers.
Lodging
Many international patients stay in hotels near the hospital, in the Zona Río business district, or in San Diego with daily crossings. Selection depends on travel duration, mobility needs, and partner work logistics. The patient-support team can share lodging considerations.
Monitoring Coordination
Some monitoring (ultrasound and bloodwork during ovarian stimulation) can be performed locally in your home country and securely shared with the destination clinic, reducing travel days. The remainder of monitoring, the egg retrieval, and (if applicable) a fresh transfer are typically done in Tijuana.
Travel Timing Considerations
- Egg retrieval is a brief outpatient procedure, typically with light sedation; most patients are advised against long-haul travel the same day.
- For fresh embryo transfers, patients are often advised to remain locally for a short post-transfer rest period before flying.
- Frozen embryo transfer cycles can sometimes be scheduled with fewer in-person days.
Companion and Support
Bringing a partner, family member, or friend is generally recommended for the retrieval day. International coordinators can help with airport pickups, translation, and appointment scheduling.
What to Discuss With Your Specialist
- Total expected in-person days for your protocol.
- Local monitoring options in your home country.
- Restrictions on flying and physical activity around procedures.
- Medication transportation considerations, including refrigeration and customs.
- Follow-up scheduling if pregnancy occurs.
Important Note
Travel logistics should support — not drive — clinical decisions. Choose a plan that allows for safe rest, monitoring compliance, and emergency access. All travel guidance on this site is educational and not a substitute for individualized medical instructions.