IVF
02.11.2026
Balancing work commitments with infertility treatment is not always easy. Repeated examinations, medical appointments, uncertainty, waiting for results and emotional strain affect not only personal life but often the working day as well. Yet these experiences are still rarely discussed in the workplace. This is precisely the issue that this year’s European Fertility Week, taking place from 2 to 8 November 2026, aims to bring to the forefront.
Infertility treatment can be challenging not only emotionally but also in terms of time. Regular visits to healthcare facilities, medical examinations and treatment procedures require adjustments to working schedules. Employees often have to arrange shift changes, take time off or explain their absences. However, not everyone feels comfortable sharing such personal and sensitive information with their managers or colleagues.
Did you know that…
- Approximately one in six people of reproductive age experience fertility problems.
- In the European Union, this affects approximately 25 million people.
Alongside the practical challenges, there is also the emotional impact of treatment. Uncertainty, hormonal stimulation, waiting for results and the emotional ups and downs between hope and disappointment can be difficult enough on their own. When combined with concerns about how an employer might react or the feeling that one has to hide their situation at work, the entire experience can become even more challenging.
Infertility is therefore not just a private matter affecting individuals and couples. It also has a significant impact on their working lives. No one should feel forced to choose between necessary healthcare and their job.
That is why this year’s European Fertility Week focuses on the theme of Infertility in the Workplace. The campaign aims to open up a discussion about how infertility treatment affects working life and how employers, colleagues and society as a whole can help create a more supportive environment. Flexible working arrangements, greater awareness among managers and the ability to ask for support openly, without fear of misunderstanding or a negative reaction, all play an important role.
Don’t Forget About Your Reproductive Health
Support and understanding in the workplace are important. Equally important, however, is taking care of your own reproductive health and not being afraid to seek professional advice when needed. Work commitments, everyday responsibilities and a lack of time often lead us to put our own health and well-being on hold. If you have been trying to conceive for some time, have questions about your fertility or simply want to understand your reproductive health better, you do not have to look for answers on your own. Taking the first step does not necessarily mean starting treatment straight away. An initial consultation at our clinic gives you the opportunity to discuss your situation with specialists, get answers to important questions and explore the options available to you. Together, you can then consider the next steps based on your individual needs.
Have you experienced the impact of infertility treatment on your working life? Share your experience.
The more experiences are collected, the easier it will be to highlight the needs of people facing similar situations. Every story can help encourage more open conversations about infertility in the workplace and make employee support a natural part of working life. Take part in the anonymous Infertility in the Workplace 2026 survey.
