Egg Freezing Costs Create Fertility Wealth Gap Between Men Women

The popularization of egg freezing has created a new ‘fertility wealth gap’ between men and women. This gap is a result of the increasing demand for fertility preservation options, particularly among women. The process of egg freezing involves significant financial, emotional, and physical costs, which are often borne by women alone. The average cost of one egg freezing cycle in major U.S. cities ranges from $15,000 to $20,000, and the process can take multiple cycles depending on the number of eggs collected. This financial burden is exacerbated by the fact that egg freezing is not yet a mainstream benefit offered by many companies or insurance plans, and when it is, there are often caveats such as not covering women freezing eggs for social or elective reasons.

While some companies and states do cover egg freezing, the cost remains a significant barrier for many women. The process involves daily hormone injections followed by an egg retrieval procedure, which can be both physically and emotionally taxing. Additionally, the cost of egg storage can add up to $500 to $1,000 per year, further straining women's financial resources. This financial burden is particularly acute for women in their early to mid-thirties, who are often at a critical point in their careers and financial stability. The decision to freeze eggs can feel irresponsible in an age where fertility companies promise that securing future family is “easier than ever,” but the high cost and lack of guarantees make it inaccessible to many.

In contrast, sperm-freezing startups offer men the opportunity to preserve their fertility at a fraction of the cost, ranging from $500 to $4,000. While biology means that fertility preservation is a more pressing issue for women, the disparity in costs and benefits highlights a growing inequality. Women are bearing the brunt of the financial burden to have children later in life, even though men also benefit from starting families later. This disparity is further exacerbated by the lack of comprehensive fertility benefits offered by companies and insurance plans, which often leave women to foot the bill alone.

The solution to this fertility wealth gap lies in increased support from companies, states, and insurance providers. Companies need to step up with fertility benefits, and states need to expand coverage for fertility preservation options. Insurance companies also need to play a role in making these options more accessible and affordable. By providing comprehensive fertility benefits, companies and insurance providers can help alleviate the financial burden on women and create a more equitable landscape for fertility preservation. This would allow women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health without having to choose between financial stability and their future families.