P-486 Fertility in the workplace: The emotional, physical and psychological impact of infertility in the workplace
Authors: Steyn F , Sizer A , Pericleous-Smith A 
Published: June 2022

Abstract

Study question
How can a supportive workplace environment influence the emotional and physical wellbeing of those Impacted by fertility issues?

Summary answer
Implementing a supportive environment and workplace fertility policies can substantially improve physical and emotional wellbeing and is indeed best practice benefiting both employees and employers.

What is known already
Most people facing fertility issues are in some form of employment. Trying to conceive, fertility investigations and fertility treatment, can impact physical and emotional wellbeing causing distress, anxiety and affect relationships with family, friends and colleagues. This can lead to a detrimental effect on workplace performance, job satisfaction, career progression and an increase in absence or sick time for those employees who are actively trying to conceive. The demands of navigating treatment whilst working can cause immense emotional stress on an individual as well as potentially affecting the wider organisation as a whole unless best practice in support is shown.

Study design, size, duration
During October 2021, two surveys were conducted to explore and make the link between the personal / human experience of infertility and the corporate impact / responsibility in supporting someone through it. The first survey was disseminated to 503 workers who were either trying to conceive, currently pregnant, or who have conditions related to fertility and the second survey was sent to 1054 workers who did not identify that they were on a fertility journey.

Participants/materials, setting, methods
Two online anonymous surveys were conducted, the first contained 18 questions and were aimed at 503 workers who identified that they were either trying to conceive, currently pregnant or who had conditions related to fertility. The second questionnaire contained 9 questions and was aimed at 1054 respondents who were not on a fertility journey, 508 of which were in senior or management positions. All respondents were in current employment in various roles.

Main results and the role of chance
The main results of the combined surveys showed that nearly 2 in 3 women have felt overwhelmed by their fertility journey. Over half of respondents feel that their fertility journey has made them feel depressed and/or anxious and the majority of those who have had miscarriages say that their fertility journey has been traumatic (79%). Almost two thirds (63%) have not been offered fertility counselling or support by their workplace.
Employees who are on their fertility journey are often? unable to work to their full potential, with 40% having considered leaving their job entirely. Reduced working hours, a change in career path and passing up important career opportunities are all actions respondents have taken whilst on their fertility journey. This remains equal across both male and females, with 31% of those who have reduced their hours/ gone part time having had a partner experience miscarriage.
61% have told their employer about their fertility journey, 23% have spoken about it in detail.
24% of those on their journey have had to lie to colleagues/ managers in order to attend/ manage fertility appointments and/or treatment.

Limitations, reasons for caution
No limitations identified. Male, female and gender neutral/ non-binary respondents were included in the survey, along with those who identified as single or were in heterosexual or same sex relationships.

Wider implications of the findings
These study findings support the research conducted by Fertility Network UK which highlights that supporting workers and employees, signposting to specialist fertility counselling, implementation of flexible working, fertility workplace policies, a supportive workplace and education is recommended for all organisations. To benefit both employer and employee alike

Trial registration number
not applicable