Fertility Awareness Week 2025: Supporting Fertility in the Workplace

Fertility Awareness Week takes place in November 2025, with the theme “Every Voice, Every Journey.” This year, the focus highlights that fertility struggles can affect anyone — and that support in the workplace can make a huge difference. 

For employers, it’s an important opportunity to reflect on how to create a fertility-friendly workplace, where employees feel safe, respected, and supported through what can be a deeply emotional and physically demanding experience.  

Why Fertility Matters at Work

1 in 6 people globally face infertility at some stage in their lives. 

• Fertility treatment, such as IVF, can involve frequent medical appointments, side effects from medication, and significant emotional stress. 

• Employees who feel unsupported may struggle with productivity, engagement, or even leave their roles. 

A workplace that acknowledges and accommodates fertility challenges fosters loyalty, inclusivity, and well-being. 

Tips for Employers

1. Introduce a Fertility Policy 

Having a clear, written fertility policy helps set expectations and provides reassurance to employees. Policies can outline: 

• Paid or unpaid time off for appointments and treatment 

• Options for flexible or hybrid working during treatment cycles 

• Guidance for managers on handling sensitive conversations 

2. Train and Support Line Managers 

Managers often play a key role in an employee’s day-to-day experience. Training should cover: 

• How to have compassionate, confidential conversations 

• Awareness of treatment demands and possible side effects 

• Signposting staff to internal and external support 

3. Encourage Flexibility 

Fertility treatment often involves last-minute appointments. Flexibility with working hours, remote working, or reduced travel expectations can ease the pressure on employees. 

4. Promote a Culture of Openness 

Employees may be reluctant to disclose fertility struggles for fear of stigma. Employers can help by: 

• Using inclusive language in HR materials 

• Sharing awareness campaigns, such as Fertility Awareness Week 

• Encouraging leadership to model empathy and understanding 

5. Provide Emotional and Practical Support 

Beyond policy, organisations can: 

• Offer access to counselling or employee assistance programmes (EAPs) 

• Create peer support groups or employee networks 

Partner with fertility specialists and organisations such as the IVFN to provide webinars and resources 

Why This Matters for Employers 

Supporting fertility in the workplace isn’t just about compassion. it’s about building a culture where employees feel valued and safe. Employers who recognise and respond to fertility challenges benefit from: 

• Improved staff retention 

• Higher morale and engagement 

A reputation as an inclusive and supportive workplace 

Fertility Awareness Week 2025 is a chance for employers to reflect on how they can better support their staff. Whether through policy, training, or simply creating space for honest and open conversations, your actions can have a lasting impact on employees navigating one of the most challenging journeys of their lives.