A recent study reveals that three-fifths of UK parents would consider paying for their daughter's egg freezing, with 21% already treating it as a financial milestone comparable to buying a home or attending university. The research, commissioned by TFP Fertility, shows that 59% of parents with daughters are willing to contribute to their child's future fertility preservation.
Among parents currently saving for their children's futures, 10% are putting money aside specifically for fertility treatment. Traditional milestones still dominate: 27% save for education, 21% for house deposits, and 18% for weddings. However, egg freezing is emerging as a new priority.
Cost Remains a Key Barrier
Price is the primary obstacle for women considering egg freezing, with 48% citing cost as a deterrent. Two-thirds (65%) of respondents said they would be more likely to consider the procedure if it were more affordable. The average cost of a standard egg freezing cycle starts at £5,000, but TFP Fertility has launched an egg freeze and share scheme to reduce expenses. Eligible women can pay around £1,000 per cycle by donating some eggs to another woman.
Shifting Attitudes Among Parents
The fertility conversation is gaining traction. Parents are eight times more likely to think fertility planning will become more common than less (34% vs 4%), while 62% think it will stay the same or are unsure. Younger parents are driving the change: 39% of those aged 44 and under see egg freezing as a financial milestone, compared to 17% of older parents. Similarly, 69% of younger parents would help pay for egg freezing, versus 46% of those over 44.
On average, parents believe conversations about fertility planning should begin around age 22. This reflects a wider trend of women delaying parenthood to prioritize careers, travel, and financial security.
Expert Insight
Dr James Hopkisson, UK Medical Director at TFP Fertility, commented: 'We are seeing a clear shift when it comes to egg freezing. An increasing number of parents are willing to provide financial support, reflecting a trend of delaying motherhood as women prioritize other things like travel or their career. It's good to see the conversation around fertility planning moving forward. Our egg freeze and share programme improves accessibility, empowering more women to take control of their fertility while helping others.'
