Who gets to freeze their eggs?

Politicians and celebrities often share personal decisions, but for Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), announcing her intention to freeze her eggs carries a deeper significance. Despite the increasing number of American women opting for this procedure, barriers remain for many who would like to do the same. In her Instagram story, Ocasio-Cortez explained that freezing her eggs gives her a greater sense of control over her life, a sentiment echoed by many who feel they lack adequate preparation and information about their own bodies.

However, the process is far from straightforward, with costs averaging between $10,000 and $20,000 and insurance coverage being a rarity. Ocasio-Cortez herself highlights that she is in a privileged position to afford this luxury, acknowledging that egg freezing is an expensive and uncertain treatment. The lack of insurance coverage is particularly disheartening, as even her federal health plan doesn't provide coverage.

While some states mandate coverage for medically necessary fertility preservation, such as cancer treatment, elective freezing remains largely unaddressed. The disparity in accessibility is further exacerbated by the fact that employer plans, which cover about half of Americans, are often self-funded and exempt from state mandates.

The only glimmer of hope is the HOPE With Fertility Services Act, an act that would require insurers to cover some basic fertility treatment when deemed medically necessary. However, it remains stuck at the committee level. As the public's support for IVF rises, it is clear that there is a growing political moment for fertility coverage. However, expanding access to egg freezing requires overcoming significant hurdles.