There are numerous solutions available to help families conceive. Often, the barrier is not the availability of treatment but the cost. It is rare to find an insurance company that covers fertility treatments. I remember feeling discouraged about my diagnosis, hopeful once I learned my treatment options, and then discouraged again at the cost. To make matters worse, my two insurances at the time would not cover a dime.
Healthcare is already overwhelming and expensive, but when it comes to fertility treatments, the burden becomes even heavier. The lack of coverage for infertility care doesn’t just add financial stress; it reinforces the stigma that seeking treatment is something to be ashamed of or unjustified.
This is exactly why Infertility Awareness Week matters.
We need to raise our voices not just for ourselves, but so that lawmakers and policymakers begin to understand that fertility care isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessary part of healthcare for so many families.
The truth is, many of us wouldn’t be parents today without access to fertility treatment. I’m one of them. I’m speaking up to help shift the narrative, remove the shame, and fight for change because every woman deserves the chance to hope, to try, and to heal without fear or judgment.
What Are Your Options When You Cannot Afford Treatment?
Fertility Loan: There are financing programs specifically designed to cover fertility treatment. My husband and I utilize a fertility loan to help finance IVF. The positive is that we were able to do it. The con was that we ended up paying more for the treatment due to the high interest rate. Thankfully, we were able to pay off the loan early and save interest. If you use this method, I recommend having a quick payoff plan.
Here is a link: fertility loans:
Insurance Coverage: There are resources dedicated to finding insurance companies that will cover treatment. Here is a tip: Most insurance companies will cover everything up to your diagnosis. If you know or suspect something is wrong, do not hesitate to contact your doctor or a fertility specialist for a check-up. Remember, you will still have deductible costs.
Here is a link: Insurance coverage
Grants/Scholarships: Numerous programs are available to assist with fertility treatment costs. Most of them require you to write about your story. I know couples who have gone this route for treatment, as well as used grants to fund adoption costs. So, it is worth giving a try.
Here is a link: Grants
Savings: There is the old-school method of simply saving up your money, or if you are already a good steward of your savings, you may already have the money. I recommend opening a savings account that will build interest as you save. Additionally, consider any yearly bonuses and tax returns to help offset the costs.
I hope these resources will help your family and friends with the financial aspects of fertility treatments.
Please leave a link in the comments if you have additional resources or tips.
Infertility: Let’s Talk about it
Links for IAW
https://infertilityawareness.org/
Raising Awareness
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