A study released Thursday found that 91% of women experiencing fertility challenges report impacts on their mental health, while 44% have turned down career advancement opportunities due to fertility treatment demands.
The research by Maven Clinic surveyed more than 1,000 U.S. women who have navigated fertility treatments or experienced difficulty conceiving, revealing costs extending far beyond financial burdens.
“IVF is a life-changing technology that makes dreams come true, and providing access to this essential care is the floor, not the ceiling,” said Kate Ryder, founder and CEO of Maven Clinic.
Financial and emotional toll
Three-quarters of respondents reported experiencing financial strain, with one-third spending more than $50,000 on fertility treatments. The study found 83% of women had to cut back on expenses, and 52% diverted savings intended for other life goals such as retirement or home purchases.
Beyond finances, the emotional impact proved substantial. Most women limited social interactions due to emotional stress, with 78% avoiding events like weddings, baby showers and family gatherings.
Workplace implications
Despite growing employer support for fertility benefits, 77% of women reported hiding or downplaying their fertility treatments at work. For those with employer-provided fertility benefits, 81% said they felt more engaged and productive in their jobs.
“Families deserve the shortest, safest path to a healthy baby, but that’s not what the current system is built to deliver,” said Dr. Neel Shah, chief medical officer of Maven Clinic.
The research comes as employer coverage for fertility benefits has increased 30% since 2020, with an estimated 40% of U.S. employers now offering some form of fertility benefits.
Maven Clinic’s study was released ahead of National Infertility Awareness Week, highlighting challenges faced by an estimated one in six people globally who experience infertility.
