New research from Northwestern Mutual finds that about 10% of Gen Z and Millennials are putting off having children because of affordability concerns. For couples who later face infertility, IVF can add another layer of financial pressure, with costs that extend well beyond a single procedure.
Kate Michaels, a managing partner at Northwestern Mutual, says the expenses start earlier than many people expect — monitoring appointments, medical exams, and even travel can add up before a couple reaches the main treatment cost. Her advice: review your insurance coverage early so you can spot out-of-pocket costs, and consider talking with a financial advisor before you know whether you’ll need treatment at all.
Planning ahead doesn’t remove the emotional weight of fertility challenges, but it can reduce the financial anxiety that comes with them. For Suncoast couples balancing family timelines and budgets, a few conversations now can make the road smoother later. Have you or someone you know planned financially for fertility treatment? Share your experience in the comments.
