60. Why the U.S. Doesn't Support Women Who Want to Get Pregnant - A Fertility Policy Expert Explains
Did you know that most countries treat fertility support as a basic human right - but the United States government funds only one side of reproductive health?
In this episode of the Her Fertility Podcast, Jess sits down with Professor Leonard Lopoo, a leading expert in fertility and family policy and author of the new book Wanting Children. Together they unpack the history behind America's reproductive policy, why IVF and infertility support have been left out of government programs, and what it would look like if we actually built a system designed to help people who want to become parents.
You'll learn:
β Why U.S. family planning policy has historically focused only on preventing pregnancy β not supporting it
β The eugenic roots of American reproductive policy that stretch back to the late 1800s
β How countries like France, Quebec, and Scandinavian nations provide multiple IVF cycles through government support
β Why 1 in 6 people experience infertility β and what equitable access to care could change
β The unifying policy goal that cuts across political divides: helping wanted children thrive
β What fertility technologies and genetic testing mean for the future of reproductive rights This episode is for every woman who has felt the financial and emotional weight of paying out of pocket for fertility treatment β and wondered why the system isn't built for her.
π Wanting Children by Professor Leonard Lopoo β available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
πΏ Ready for support that meets you where you are? The Her Fertility Support Portal is a monthly membership for women navigating infertility β emotionally, somatically, and in community. π www.herfertility.support
Connect with Jess: π² Instagram & TikTok: @herfertility.support
ποΈ New episodes every week
Disclaimer: The Her Fertility podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.
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