How to Support Your Team Members Struggling with Fertility Issues

For many employees, the journey to parenthood is not as simple as deciding to start a family. Fertility struggles affect 1 in 6 people in the UK, and the emotional, physical, and financial toll of fertility treatments can be overwhelming. Yet, in many workplaces, these challenges remain unspoken, leaving employees to navigate one of the most difficult experiences of their lives without adequate support.

As an employer or manager, you have an opportunity to create a workplace that is compassionate, understanding, and inclusive of employees facing fertility issues. Here’s how.

1. Recognise the Emotional Toll of Fertility Challenges

Fertility struggles are deeply personal and often invisible. Employees may be undergoing invasive medical treatments, experiencing repeated losses, or facing societal stigma, especially in cases of same-sex couples or individuals exploring surrogacy. The stress of uncertainty, coupled with the emotional weight of the process, can impact focus, performance, and wellbeing.

A simple way to acknowledge this is by fostering a culture where employees feel safe discussing these challenges without fear of judgment or career repercussions.

2. Provide Practical Support and Flexibility

Many fertility treatments require strict medical schedules. Employees may need to attend multiple appointments for consultations, hormone injections, egg retrieval, and embryo transfers, all of which are time-sensitive and often unpredictable. Without flexibility, employees may feel forced to choose between their job and their chance to become parents.

Consider offering:

- Flexible working arrangements (remote work or adjusted hours)

- Paid leave for fertility treatments

- Compassionate leave for those experiencing pregnancy loss

3. Educate Managers and Create a Supportive Culture

One of the biggest barriers employees face is the lack of understanding from leadership. Train managers to be aware of fertility challenges and encourage sensitivity in how they communicate with employees.

Avoid common but harmful phrases such as:

- “Trying for a baby? How exciting!” (It’s not always exciting; for many, it’s distressing.)

- “Why don’t you just adopt?” (Adoption is a separate, complex journey and not a simple solution.)

- “Can’t you just take a holiday and relax?” (Fertility struggles are medical conditions, not a mindset issue.)

Instead, focus on creating a safe space where employees know they can talk to a trusted person within the organisation without fear of judgment.

4. Offer Financial and Benefits Support

Fertility treatments are expensive, one round of IVF can cost upwards of £13,000, and same-sex couples often face additional financial barriers due to NHS funding restrictions. Companies that contribute to fertility benefits, whether through private healthcare plans or direct financial assistance, see higher employee loyalty and engagement.

If financial support isn’t feasible, signposting employees to trusted resources, charities, or support groups can still make a significant difference.

5. Create an Inclusive Environment

Not everyone discussing fertility challenges is part of a heterosexual couple. Same-sex couples, single parents by choice, and individuals undergoing surrogacy all have unique needs. Likewise, not every fertility journey ends with a child—some employees may face involuntary childlessness, which comes with its own emotional weight.

Recognise these diverse experiences and ensure company policies reflect an inclusive approach. A fertility-friendly workplace should be welcoming to all, regardless of their path to parenthood.

6. Normalise Conversations and Reduce Stigma

Fertility struggles are often kept secret due to shame or workplace stigma. Employers can play a crucial role in breaking this silence by:

- Hosting educational sessions on fertility awareness and support options

- Encouraging employee resource groups where individuals can share experiences in a safe space

- Providing mental health resources tailored to those undergoing fertility treatments

By normalising discussions around fertility, employees feel less isolated and more supported.

The Bottom Line: A Culture of Care and Understanding

Workplace support for fertility struggles isn’t just about policies, it’s about culture. When employees feel genuinely cared for, they are more engaged, productive, and loyal. A small shift in awareness, flexibility, and communication can make a profound impact on someone’s journey to parenthood.

As an employer, your role is not to fix fertility issues but to create an environment where employees don’t have to choose between their careers and their dreams of having a family. By fostering education, communication, and compassion, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of your team members.

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