Although 6 months was a short period of time to turn to IVF, I know of some doctors who will begin the advanced reproductive technologies at 6 months if the woman's cycle is well-established and tracked, and if she is approaching her 40's. Why wait a year if it's obvious (for example) that a woman isn't ovulating, or if there's male factor infertility?
As for the original article, there are couples who "donate" fertilized embryos to other couples who cannot even do IVF but where the woman wishes to become pregnant. It's an interesting alternative, but if it came down to needing IVF to concieve, I personally would resort to infant adoption.
Brooke became pregnant within the year but miscarried so that doesn't seem to be her problem. But in response to the first part of your question, $$$. Infertility treatment (and cancer treatment) generate a lot of big bucks.