Elective oocyte cryopreservation: Who should pay?

Abstract

Despite the initial reactions of disapproval, more and more fertility clinics are now offering oocyte cryopreservation to healthy women in order to extend their reproductive options. However, so-called social freezing is not placed on an equal footing with 'regular' IVF treatments where public funding is concerned. In those countries or states where IVF patients receive a number of free cycles, we argue that fertilization and transfer cycles of women who proactively cryopreserved their oocytes should be covered. Moreover, when the argument of justice is consistently applied, coverage should also include the expenses of ovarian stimulation, oocyte retrieval and storage. Different modalities are possible: full coverage from the onset, reimbursement in cash or reimbursement in kind, by offering more free transfer cycles. © The Author 2011.