The Human Egg Trade: A Market of Scarcity and Value

The human egg has become a highly coveted resource in fertility treatments, leading to a booming global market worth billions. People seeking in vitro fertilization are often willing to pay large sums for these eggs, driving a power imbalance where wealthier clients disproportionately benefit from the services offered by less privileged women who may be compelled to sell their eggs. For instance, egg prices in the U.S. can range from $5,000 to $100,000, creating an urgent demand that fuels exploitation and ethical concerns surrounding the transaction. Given the limited regulation in many countries, the market thrives in an environment ripe for potential abuses, complicating the already intricate process of conception for hopeful parents.