President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order aimed at reducing the costs associated with in vitro fertilization (IVF), a medical procedure that assists individuals facing infertility in building their families. The order highlighted the need for more affordable treatment options, as the cost per IVF cycle can range from $12,000 to $25,000.
The order instructed the assistant to the president for domestic policy to provide policy recommendations within 90 days on protecting IVF access and reducing out-of-pocket and health plan costs for IVF treatment.
What is IVF?
IVF is a fertility treatment that involves retrieving a woman's eggs and combining them with a man's sperm in a lab dish to create a fertilized embryo. The embryo is then transferred into the woman's uterus to attempt to achieve pregnancy. IVF is typically pursued after other fertility treatments have been unsuccessful.
Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage for IVF varies depending on the provider. While some large employers offer coverage to attract and retain employees, government-funded programs like Medicaid often limit fertility treatment coverage. This lack of widespread coverage has been criticized for creating disparities in access to treatment.
History of IVF
The first baby conceived through IVF was born in 1978 in England, with the first U.S. birth in 1981 in Norfolk, Virginia. Despite initial resistance, IVF centers began to open across the country, with the technology continuing to grow in popularity.
Embryo Creation and Storage
During IVF, hormones are used to stimulate egg production, which are then fertilized in a lab. Embryos can be frozen and stored for future use, with the majority surviving the thawing process. Frozen embryos are preserved using liquid nitrogen and can be stored for many years.
President Trump's executive order aims to make IVF more accessible and affordable for individuals seeking fertility treatment, recognizing the importance of supporting families on their journey to parenthood.
