Healthcare is (or should be) a human right—and that includes reproductive health and fertility care access. But, access to fertility care, is still often out of reach for so many. Access to care is one of the reasons Bird&Be exists (and why each year we run our Fertility Fund Giveaway!). We wanted to provide education, resources, and products to help people achieve the families of their dreams from their homes. Because we know firsthand that pursuing fertility treatment can be a lengthy, confusing, and expensive process. One of the biggest barriers is education "For too long, people have been left to navigate reproductive health through misinformation, stigma, and guesswork," says Bird&Be co-founder and CEO Samantha Diamond. "We need science-backed, medically verified fertility education that’s easily accessible, because when people understand their reproductive health earlier, they can advocate for themselves sooner, seek care faster, and ultimately improve outcomes." Our doctors see this in clinic, every day. "Patients arrive feeling behind or confused because no one gave them the right information early enough," says naturopathic doctor and Bird&Be director of nutraceuticals, Dr. Tracy Malone. "The 100 days before conception are a critical window where nutrition and lifestyle can genuinely shift outcomes, but most people don't even know that window exists—and for many, the barrier isn't necessarily knowledge, it's access to quality food and practitioners who can connect the dots." Shop Now The 6 Best Fertility Supplements to Help You Get Pregnant Read More But access can also be limited by geography Many areas of North America, especially in more rural parts of the United States and Canada, are known as fertility-clinic deserts. These areas lack local, fully operational fertility clinics, so even if they're able to pursue treatment, patients have to travel (sometimes even out of state or out of province) to access care. "For those who live in remote areas, increasing access through travel grants and satellite clinics can help patients access the care they need with minimal burden. We need to prioritize fertility care for everyone, regardless of geography, identity, diagnosis or economic status." Dr. Prati Sharma, REI But let's be real—money is the main gatekeeper to fertility care Often, the main barrier is cost. Right now, access to fertility care is treated like a luxury and available only to those who have the right benefits, the right resources, or the ability to pay thousands of dollars out of pocket. The price tag on IVF is high—and that's before you factor in that many will need multiple rounds to achieve their desired outcome. Find clinics and Bird&Be products near you “Infertility is a medical condition, yet access to care still depends more on insurance, income, or location than actual need. When education and access are delayed, the options are often more invasive, more expensive, and less effective. That’s why I care deeply about accessibility—not just to treatment, but to clear, reliable information. But education alone isn’t enough—we also need broader insurance coverage, more equitable access to care, and systems designed to meet patients where they are. At the end of the day, fertility care is healthcare, and everyone deserves a fair chance to build the family they want.” Dr. Nirali Jain, REI How Much Does It Cost to Freeze Your Eggs? Read More The future of fertility? We hope it's much more accessible "If we want more people to have a real chance at building the families they dream of, we need to treat fertility care as an essential part of public health," says Diamond. "This starts with earlier widespread education and support, expanded coverage, and a system that helps people before they reach a crisis point. Everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue parenthood with dignity, clarity, and real options." “Access and cost are the biggest gatekeepers to fertility care, and by the time many patients reach doctors, they’ve already lost critical time. Delayed access worsens outcomes, increases treatment intensity, and ultimately drives costs higher, creating a system where those who need care the most face the greatest barriers. Giving people a fair shot at growing a family should not depend on luck, timing, or financial privilege, yet right now, too often, it does.” Dr. Roohi Jeelani, REI What we hope for everyone: Better research-backed fertility education earlier. This means comprehensive reproductive and fertility information in health classes, doctors' offices, and more—before people are trying to conceive and well before they hit crisis mode. At-home diagnostic testing. Getting early answers and insight shouldn't rely on a trip to a specialist with an out-of-pocket bill. More focus on how nutrition, sleep, stress, and the environment affect fertility. Many of these factors are modifiable to give you better outcomes—but only if you know what to do. Products You May Be Interested In Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now Shop Now You May Also Like 5 Things to Know About Bird&Be Read more Which Bird&Be Product Should I Use? Read more 7 Things that Make Bird&Be Prenatals Different Read more Find Bird&Be Near You
