Making Babies More Affordable: A Big Step for IVF

A recent move by the U. S. government has made waves in the world of family planning. The President has signed an order to make in vitro fertilization (IVF) more accessible and affordable for Americans. This isn't just about cutting costs; it's about making sure that everyone has a fair shot at starting a family. The order focuses on two main goals: lowering the financial burden of IVF and making sure it's easier to get. Right now, the cost of IVF can be a huge barrier. It can cost anywhere from $12, 000 to $25, 000 per cycle, and sometimes, multiple cycles are needed. Only a few states and employers offer coverage for IVF, and the federal government only covers it for a select group.The order also acknowledges the importance of family formation. It's a fact that many couples struggle with infertility, and the high cost of IVF can make it even harder for them to have children. The government is taking steps to change this. They're looking at current policies that might be making IVF more expensive and finding ways to fix them. The need for more affordable IVF is clear. In 2021, over 85, 000 babies were born through IVF. But the general fertility rate in the U. S. is at an all-time low, dropping by 3% in 2023 alone. This trend has been going on for years, with the rate decreasing by 2% annually from 2014 to 2020. The government's move is a big deal. It's a promise to help American families have more babies and build stronger communities. But it's also a reminder that there's still a long way to go. The cost of IVF is still high, and many couples still can't afford it. This order is a step in the right direction, but it's just the beginning.