The Rise of Egg Freezing: What’s Behind the Growing Interest & How to Handle Insurance
More women are choosing fertility preservation as a way to feel proactive and in control of their reproductive future, rather than feeling “behind.”
According to Brown Fertility’s Understanding Fertility Perceptions in the U.S. study, curiosity and interest in egg freezing extends across a wide range of ages and life stages, including women without children as well as those who already have children and are considering their family-building options.
The study surveyed more than 500 women aged 24 to 37, including 254 women without children and 251 women with at least one child. These findings challenge the common assumption that egg freezing is only relevant to younger women in their early reproductive years. Notably, many women who already have children expressed interest in fertility preservation as a proactive family planning tool.
When asked about their likelihood to learn more about or pursue egg freezing, the responses were:
- Likely:
- 40% of women without children
- 51% of women with one or more children
- Unlikely:
- 33% of women without children
- 27% of women with one or more children
- Neither likely nor unlikely:
- 27% of women without children
- 21% of women with one or more children
While motivations may vary, the underlying sentiment is consistent: women value autonomy and flexibility in their reproductive choices. As later parenthood becomes more common, planning ahead is less about beating a ticking clock and more about opening doors to possibilities.
Still, interest often runs into practical challenges. Cost is one of the biggest concerns and insurance coverage can be confusing. Many find it difficult to understand what out-of-pocket expenses they might face and navigating insurance policies can feel overwhelming.
Knowing the Right Questions to Ask Your Insurer Before Booking an Appointment
Confirming what your plan covers beforehand can make a big difference. Be sure to ask:
- What coverage is available for diagnosis, blood work, office visits, procedures like hysterosalpingogram (HSG), IVF and semen analysis?
- Is prior authorization required for treatment?
- Do I need a referral from my primary care doctor or OB-GYN before the first fertility appointment?
- Are medications covered under the plan?
- What is my annual or lifetime maximum benefit for infertility treatments?
- Does my insurance plan cover fertility preservation specifically, including egg freezing?
- Are there any waiting periods before coverage begins?
- Are there any exclusions or limitations I should be aware of?
- Can I use out-of-network providers for fertility treatment and will those costs be covered?
- What costs will I be responsible for directly, including co-pays, deductibles and co-insurance?
More and more states are starting to require insurance plans to cover at least some fertility treatments, including IVF and egg freezing. The details vary depending on where you live, but this shift shows just how much attitudes are changing around making fertility care accessible. The National Infertility Association’s RESOLVE resource provides helpful, current information on state laws and benefits.
For those without insurance coverage, fertility treatments, Brown Fertility offers an accessible starting point with new patient appointments beginning at $150 and no commitment required. The care team also provides transparent estimates and discusses available financial assistance once a plan’s in place. Thanks to partnerships with pharmacies, patients can also access discounts on medications, which can help ease financial burdens and ensure that cost is not an insurmountable barrier.
This post is the second of a three-part series exploring key insights from Brown Fertility’s Understanding Fertility Perceptions in the U.S. study.