Summary:
Fertility preservation is the process of storing eggs, sperm, or embryos for future use in assisted reproductive technologies. In recent years, the cost of fertility preservation has risen significantly, making it unaffordable for many individuals and couples. This has led to calls for affordable fertility preservation to be recognized as a human right.
In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why affordable fertility preservation should be considered a human right. We will discuss the impact of high costs on access to fertility preservation, the importance of reproductive autonomy, and the role of fertility preservation in achieving reproductive justice. We will also address potential counterarguments and examine the current state of affordable fertility preservation initiatives around the world.
First and foremost, access to affordable fertility preservation is crucial for individuals and couples who are facing fertility challenges. Infertility affects approximately 12% of the global population, and the number is expected to rise in the coming years. For many people, fertility preservation may be the only option to have biological children in the future. However, the high cost of fertility preservation procedures, which can range from $2,000 to $15,000, can be a significant barrier for those who cannot afford it. This creates a gap in access to fertility preservation and can result in unequal opportunities for individuals and couples to start a family.
Reasons Why Affordable Fertility Preservation is a Human Right
Moreover, fertility preservation is not just about having biological children, but it also plays a crucial role in preserving reproductive autonomy. The ability to choose if and when to have children is a fundamental human right. However, fertility challenges or medical treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery can threaten an individual’s reproductive capacity. Fertility preservation offers individuals the opportunity to preserve their fertility and make choices about their reproductive future. Without affordable access to this option, individuals may be forced to make difficult decisions about their future family planning, which can significantly impact their quality of life.
Furthermore, affordable fertility preservation is essential for achieving reproductive justice. Reproductive justice is the right to have children, not to have children, and to parent the children we have in safe and healthy environments. It encompasses the broader social, economic, and political factors that affect reproductive health and rights. For many individuals and couples, the high cost of fertility preservation is a barrier to achieving reproductive justice. It perpetuates systemic inequalities and denies individuals and couples the opportunity to make decisions about their reproductive lives. By recognizing affordable fertility preservation as a human right, we can work towards a more just and equitable society where everyone has access to the resources necessary for reproductive autonomy.
Some may argue that fertility preservation is a luxury and not a human right. However, infertility and the need for fertility preservation can affect anyone regardless of their socioeconomic status. Additionally, the cost of fertility preservation is not just limited to the medical procedures themselves, but also includes ongoing storage fees and the cost of fertility medications. These costs can quickly add up and become unaffordable for many individuals and couples. Therefore, affordable fertility preservation should be considered a human right, just like other essential healthcare services.
While the concept of affordable fertility preservation as a human right is gaining recognition, there is still a long way to go. In some countries, such as the United States, fertility preservation may be covered by insurance, but this is not the case in many other countries. Some countries, like Israel and Belgium, have taken steps to provide funding for fertility preservation for those facing medical treatments that may affect their fertility. However, more needs to be done to ensure that affordable fertility preservation is accessible to all, regardless of their location or circumstances.
In conclusion, affordable fertility preservation should be recognized as a human right for several reasons. It is essential for individuals and couples facing fertility challenges, it preserves reproductive autonomy, and it is crucial for achieving reproductive justice. While there are potential counterarguments, the cost of fertility preservation can have far-reaching consequences on an individual’s life and well-being. Therefore, it is imperative that we work towards making affordable fertility preservation accessible to all, regardless of their socioeconomic status or location.