Bountiful, Utah — Megan Worthington dreams of expanding her family, envisioning her husband as the nurturing father she knows he can be. However, their journey toward parenthood has encountered significant obstacles. Since embarking on in vitro fertilization (IVF) in 2022, the couple has grappled with the financial demands of treatment, prompting them to seek alternative funding options.
The Worthingtons initiated a GoFundMe campaign, initially aiming to raise $8,000 to cover IVF costs. “I’ve always been independent and hesitant to ask for assistance, yet this seemed like a viable way to help us fund the treatments,” Megan explained. As they navigate discussions about potentially taking a second mortgage, the crowdfunding option offers a glimmer of hope in easing their financial burden.
They are not the only couple turning to crowdfunding for help. Between 2011 and 2015, over 1,600 IVF-related campaigns were launched on GoFundMe, collectively raising more than $3 million. Although specific state statistics are not publicly available, the company confirmed that residents in nearby communities, such as Payson and Springville, have also sought financial assistance for fertility treatments.
The financial strain of IVF is substantial; a single round can cost between $15,000 and $30,000 in the United States. Unfortunately, health insurance policies frequently do not cover fertility treatments, leaving many couples to find innovative ways to raise money. In addition to the financial hurdles, the success of IVF procedures is uncertain, adding emotional weight to the physical toll on prospective mothers.
Research from Pew indicates that as many as 1 in 10 women ages 15 to 44 in the U.S. has sought some form of fertility assistance. The demand for such services is climbing even as the costs continue to rise, with studies linking delayed childbirth to increased reliance on fertility treatments. Notably, IVF contributes to the births of 1 in 42 babies nationwide.
In Utah, where the average family size exceeds the national norm, women like Worthington face unique challenges. The societal pressure to have children can amplify personal struggles with infertility, leaving many feeling isolated or misunderstood, often by those closest to them.
“This process can feel exhausting, both emotionally and physically,” Worthington noted. The couple has found that support from family and friends is essential. “I want my husband to experience every moment of pregnancy — from hearing the first heartbeat to feeling the baby’s movements,” she shared on their crowdfunding page. Her desire to provide a nurturing environment stems from her experience raising a 13-year-old daughter from a previous relationship, during which she has seen how lovingly her husband connects with her child.
As they continue to explore their options, including potential adoption through the foster system, the Worthingtons remain determined. “I believe we can make this happen,” Megan said. “I’ll keep pursuing this until I turn 40.” They’re actively looking into fundraising initiatives — including garage sales — to bolster their finances and maintain hope.
The road to parenthood is often fraught with difficulties, but for the Worthingtons, the journey persists as they focus on what they can control while remaining open to the possibilities ahead.