In the UK alone, 3.5 million people, that's about 1 in 6 couples, struggle with fertility challenges. Fertility challenges can have an enormous and detrimental impact on a person's life. It can trickle into and affect our relationships, our mental health, and our work lives and careers.

It's time we started talking about fertility in the workplace. In June of 2021, Fertifa, along with Fertility Network UK, ran a survey that looked into the impact of fertility challenges on working life; ranging from its impact on mental health to the financial burden it had on employees. Here's what we found.

The mental health impact

Our survey revealed that 9 out of 10 people struggled with their mental health trying to balance fertility treatment with modern work life.

89% reported battling stress, 91% anxiety and 88% depression. Most reported a combination of the three.  

An increased struggle with mental health was also seen to influence performance in the workplace. 56% of those surveyed experienced a decrease in job satisfaction while trying to conceive and 38% actually considering leaving their job all together; with some going through with it.

63% revealed they were less engaged at work, with 36% increasing the number of sick days they took.

The financial impact

Our data shows that 48% of those going through fertility treatment say they have significant worries when it comes to their finances. One cycle of IVF can cost anywhere from £4,000 to £7,000. With the success rate of IVF coming out to just about 1 in 3 per cycle, the expenses can build over time, leading to copious amounts of debt and worries for the future.

Fertility and the workplace

According to our findings, about 80% of people told their boss or employer that they were starting fertility treatment. This shows that progress is being made and the previously taboo topic of fertility treatment is being spoken about more in the workplace.

We found that 60% of the survey participants were not honest about how much time they took offfor their appointments and illness related to fertility. We've found that people feel guilty taking time off for fertility treatment. 

When you look at these stats, it is clear that changes need to be made. By implementing fertility support, workplaces can move closer towards a more open and inclusive culture where employees can continue to be productive while also receiving the support they need.

About Fertifa: What we do

We work to educate, engage and empower workforces across the UK to take control of their reproductive health through fertility benefit programmes. We help employers offer support, clinical advice, financing and benefits for fertility, family forming, sexual and hormonal health, menopause and men’s reproductive health. Book in a call with our team here if you're looking to find out more.