Stacey Hofert, Group Vice President of Labor and Trust for Progyny, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss National Infertility Awareness Week, the prevalence of infertility and how Progyny, a fertility, family building and women’s health benefits fund, addresses the issue.
Hofert, a former Steelworker, began by sharing the rate at which infertility affects people globally, impacting the lives of one in six, up from one in eight in recent years. This increase underscores the growing need for awareness and support. She said that infertility not only impacts individuals physically but also takes a significant toll on mental health, with 60 percent of those affected reporting severe depression. The financial burden of treatments like In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), which can cost between $12,000 and $17,000 per cycle, often forces families to make difficult financial decisions or go into debt to pursue their dreams of parenthood.
Hofert then discussed Progyny's approach to family-building benefits, explaining how they go beyond traditional coverage, addressing the entire ecosystem of women's health from infertility and family building to pregnancy, postpartum care and menopause. Hofert discussed the role comprehensive coverage plays in reducing the overall number of treatments needed, thus minimizing time away from work and improving job security. She added that the rising trend of organizations adding fertility benefits to their plans is causing 64 percent of them to offer such coverage in response to member requests.
Finally, Hofert discussed why the stigma surrounding infertility remains a significant challenge, often leading to silence and isolation. Hofert stressed the importance of open conversations and education in combating this stigma. She encouraged listeners to learn more about infertility, listen to the stories of those affected and advocate for better coverage in their union health plans. Progyny's award-winning podcast, "This is Infertility," serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to understand and support individuals struggling with infertility.
For more insights on infertility awareness and Progyny's approach with Hofert, listen to the full episode above.