Help For IVF Costs In Grand Rapids

Did you know that this week is National Infertility Awareness Week, and that there's help for those in West Michigan who are having trouble covering the cost of IVF treatments?

The Fertility Center in Grand Rapids has a financial aid fund set up for those who wish to donate and help those with fertility issues.

Or if you're dealing with fertility issues and live in West Michigan, you can apply for funds via the Family Building Fund. In the United States, a cycle of in vitro fertilization costs approximately $10,000 to $15,000. That hardship makes it very difficult for many to start their families.

To apply for the fund, tap Family-Building-Fund-Application for the application. Or if you'd like to donate, tap HERE.

Currently the state of Michigan does not mandate infertility coverage for healthcare plans in the state, so funds like the Family Building Fund are a necessity for some who want to start a family.

Current stats from Resolve, The National Fertility Center:

1 in 8 couples (or 12% of married women) have trouble getting pregnant or sustaining a pregnancy. (2006-2010 National Survey of Family Growth, CDC)

7.4 million women, or 11.9% of women, have ever received any infertility services in their lifetime. (2006-2010 National Survey of Family Growth, CDC)

Approximately one-third of infertility is attributed to the female partner, one-third attributed to the male partner and one-third is caused by a combination of problems in both partners or, is unexplained. (American Society For Reproductive Medicine)

A couple ages 29-33 with a normal functioning reproductive system has only a 20-25% chance of conceiving in any given month (National Women’s Health Resource Center).

After six months of trying, 60% of couples will conceive without medical assistance. (Infertility As A Covered Benefit, William M. Mercer, 1997)