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In vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment offers hope to many individuals striving to start a family, yet for working women, navigating a career alongside the demanding series of fertility procedures can present significant challenges. However, employers who extend fertility benefits are playing a vital role in supporting and empowering women in the workforce.
Ramya, a 40-year-old marketing professional, experienced firsthand the complexities of balancing fertility treatments with her career. Managing regular medical appointments and hormone injections while juggling work responsibilities proved to be a daunting task. Fortunately, Ramya found support in her workplace, which offered flexibility in her schedule. Today, she is a proud mother to a seven-year-old girl.
According to Amitha N, a Consultant Fertility Specialist at Motherhood Fertility & IVF in Electronic City, Bengaluru, prioritizing fertility healthcare in the workplace is crucial for fostering employee well-being and inclusivity. Comprehensive reproductive healthcare policies not only support individuals on their journey to parenthood but also enhance worker retention, productivity, and satisfaction.
The implementation of fertility benefits in the workplace could also play a significant role in addressing India’s declining fertility rate. A recent study published in The Lancet highlighted India’s total fertility rate dropping from 6.18 in 1950 to 1.91 in 2021. It is projected to decline further to 1.3 by 2050 and 1.04 by 2100.
Diana Crasta, Head of Operations Training and Psychological Counseling at Nova IVF Fertility in Bangalore, emphasized the importance of better planning and communication with organizations for a supportive work environment. Open communication with managers, seeking support from team members, and prioritizing self-care are crucial aspects for women undergoing fertility treatments while managing work responsibilities.
Muthineni Rajini, a Senior Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynecology at CARE Hospitals in Hyderabad, suggested egg-freezing technology as an empowering option for working women. This technology offers reproductive autonomy, allowing women to align family planning with career goals. Despite challenges such as costs and societal attitudes, egg freezing contributes to reshaping expectations and creating a more supportive environment for diverse paths to family planning.
As women continue to navigate the intersection of career and fertility, the role of supportive workplace policies and benefits cannot be overstated. By prioritizing reproductive healthcare, employers not only empower their female employees but also contribute to building a more inclusive and supportive work environment for all.
