Key Takeaways For People Leaders: What HRs need to know
Sources
- Productivity Impact: the stress of IVF can lead to decreased productivity and increased absenteeism
- Scheduling Disruptions: frequent medical appointments disrupt work schedules
- Physical Challenges: physical side effects can impact day-to-day performance
- Emotional Strain: the emotional rollercoaster affects mental health and focus
But employers can make a difference. By offering the right support, you can help your team manage these challenges more easily, improving not only their well-being but also the overall productivity and morale in your workplace.
The Real Cost of IVF
When it comes to IVF, the costs can quickly add up. In the UK, private IVF treatment typically ranges from £4,000 to £13,000 per cycle. But that’s just the starting point. Expenses like medication, genetic testing, and consultations can pile on, creating a much larger financial commitment.
It’s not just a financial burden; it’s a life-altering experience. The process often takes a toll physically and mentally, and it can feel overwhelming for employees trying to balance their fertility journey with their work commitments.
How IVF Affects Workplace Well-being
The impact of IVF goes far beyond financial costs. For employees, the emotional and physical challenges of treatment can affect their day-to-day work. As an employer, understanding this ripple effect is key to creating a supportive environment.
- Time off work: IVF often requires frequent medical appointments, meaning employees might need time away from work at short notice
- Reduced productivity: It’s not just about appointments. The stress, uncertainty, and physical strain of treatment can reduce focus and performance at work. Some studies suggest a 15% drop in productivity during treatment cycles
- Mental health challenges: The emotional rollercoaster of IVF can lead to anxiety, depression, or burnout, making it harder for employees to stay engaged and motivated at work
The Ripple Effect:
Why IVF Benefits Are Good for Business
Supporting your employees through fertility treatment isn’t just about compassion; it’s smart business. Fertility benefits can have a profound effect on employee loyalty and retention, and they offer a strong return on investment.
But it’s not just about the numbers. Offering fertility support demonstrates your commitment to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace. Fertility benefits are particularly valuable for LGBTQ+ employees and single parents by choice, making sure everyone feels supported, regardless of their path to parenthood.
Taking Action: What Employers Can Do
If you want to be there for your employees as they navigate their fertility journey, here are some actionable steps you can take:
- Comprehensive Fertility Insurance: Offer IVF coverage for multiple cycles, medications, and additional treatments like genetic testing
- Flexible Work Arrangements: Provide options for flexible schedules or remote working to accommodate the demands of treatment
- Mental Health Support: Offer counseling or emotional support services to help employees manage the stress of IVF
- Fertility Education: Provide resources and workshops that help employees understand their options, financial assistance programs, and ways to navigate their fertility journey
Juniper’s Approach
At Juniper, we understand the profound impact that fertility challenges can have on an employee's life. We are dedicated to offering comprehensive reproductive health care and support services, ensuring that our employees can balance their personal and professional lives effectively.
Our sources, If You’d Like To Read More:
- National Library of Medicine - The Impact of Infertility on Daily Occupations and Roles
- CIPD - Workplace support for employees experiencing fertility challenges, investigations or treatment
- REBA - How fertility benefits improve recruitment and retention
- Fertility Mapper
Get in touch to find out more
If you're interested to understand how Juniper can help support your workplace, book a call and the team will guide you through!