Managing Infertility in Your Organisation

Today marks the end of the 2024 National Infertility Awareness Week, and despite my hectic schedule, I made a personal commitment to address the topic of infertility in my final edition for the month. I aim to contribute to raising awareness; aligning with this year's theme, "Leave Your Mark."

Having personally experienced a five-year struggle with infertility before welcoming my miracle baby in 2023, this year’s National Infertility Awareness Week stirred up painful and sad memories of my experience. I recall the challenges of my journey to motherhood, including the subtle but hurtful remarks from insensitive individuals, along with its initial impact on my social interactions and mental health.

Managing Infertility struggles in the workplace

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one out of every six individuals will experience infertility during their lifetime. Male reproductive issues account for one-third of infertility cases, another third are attributed to female reproductive issues, and the remaining third is a combination of both male and female factors or remains inconclusive. (NICHD)

Dealing with infertility can be a rollercoaster, especially when the employee has to manage several medical appointments alongside their professional responsibilities. As a business executive, line manager, people operations professional or even someone who aspires to become a business leader someday, infertility is a persistent condition, meaning there will likely be one or more people within your workplace facing this challenge.?

To maintain a work environment that supports employees in both their professional and personal aspirations, consider the following steps you can take to demonstrate your support:

1. Promote open communication:?

Despite working in organisations with flat structures and open-door policies, it was still difficult for me to open up about my fertility challenges, especially times when I had only just resumed working at a new company and had medical appointments coming up. With time, however, I learned that a closed mouth would only keep me where I did not wish to remain. So I learned to summon the courage to talk to my line managers and seek support.?

However, not every employee would have the confidence to request support, particularly if there are no known office policies that support their needs. Keeping an open line of communication would help to make them feel comfortable discussing their problems (if they choose to) with a manager or a trusted partner in the organisation.??

2. Develop policies to support their struggles with infertility.?

Create policies that support employees who may be dealing with infertility challenges in your workplace. This could be in the form of periodic time offs, therapy sessions and health benefits that cover fertility treatments (if your organisation can afford it).

Keep in mind that while such a policy may exist, its effectiveness may be limited if proactive measures are not taken to ensure the affected employees understand the extent of available support and, more importantly, if management does not demonstrate genuine support and care for them in reality.??

3. Reward and acknowledge great performance:??

Infertility is challenging and often leads individuals to question their self-worth and purpose. Regularly recognising and rewarding employees for their contributions can serve as a powerful motivator. This encouragement can help employees experiencing infertility remain focused amidst their struggles, providing a positive distraction for them and keeping their hopes up.

Conclusion:?

A popular quote states, “Infertility may have challenged us, but we are stronger for it.” This is true; however, strength is often boosted when we feel supported and cared for by those around us. As this year’s National Infertility Awareness Week comes to a close, let us continue to learn about infertility, advocate for an increased understanding, and support those (irrespective of their gender) who may be experiencing any form of infertility, within and beyond the workplace.

Until Next Time,?

Bukola Osuntuyi.?