Northwestern Mutual Reports 10% of Young Adults Delay Parenthood Over Fertility Costs

A new study from Northwestern Mutual reveals that financial uncertainty is a primary factor driving young adults to postpone starting a family.

The research indicates that approximately 10% of Generation Z and Millennial adults cite affordability concerns as the reason they are delaying parenthood. These individuals express worry about how starting a family would impact their long-term financial stability. The data suggests that money is not just a logistical hurdle but a primary driver of timing decisions for this demographic.

Kate Michaels, a managing partner at Northwestern Mutual, notes that while couples manage their budgets, they also face biological constraints. She explains that fertility issues can introduce additional pressure to the decision-making process. When a couple encounters infertility, many consider In Vitro Fertilization, or IVF. Michaels describes this path as both emotionally and financially demanding for those who pursue it.

The costs associated with IVF extend beyond the main procedure. Michaels emphasizes that planning must account for the entire treatment timeline. This includes pre-treatment monitoring appointments and various medical exams. These initial steps can accumulate before the larger expenses of the IVF cycle itself begin. She advises couples to consider the potential need for fertility treatments when entering a relationship, rather than waiting for a diagnosis to address the financial implications.

Michaels suggests that couples do not need to know if they will require treatment to begin financial planning. Speaking with a financial advisor early allows partners to prepare for a wide range of possible costs. This proactive approach helps manage the stress of the process. She states that having a financial plan in place provides peace of mind during a physically and emotionally taxing period. The goal is to prevent financial anxiety from compounding the stress of the medical journey.

A key part of this preparation involves reviewing insurance coverage. Couples should check their policies early to understand specific inclusions and exclusions. This review helps identify out-of-pocket expenses, such as travel or additional procedures. With a clear picture of these costs, individuals can determine how much to set aside for potential fertility treatments. This strategy allows for financial readiness without requiring a confirmed diagnosis.