A new study has shown women undergoing IVF face discrimination from their bosses once they disclose they are going through IVF treatment
The report, collated by Pregnant Then Screwed, launched during this year’s Infertility Awareness Week and published in partnership with Women In Data, showed that one in five women faced unfair treatment at work after revealing their fertility heartbreak.
Almost half of the women who took part in the study said that being transparent about their fertility issues was costly to their careers.
Of those, one in four (24%) didn’t receive any support from their employer, and 24% said they experienced unfair treatment as a result.
Joeli Brearley from Pregnant Then Screwed, said, “We are seeing an increasing number of calls to our helpline from women who experience discrimination in the workplace as a result of reproductive health issues. Going through the unknowns of fertility treatment, or the utter heartbreak of baby loss, can be excruciating for many women.
“That pain and emotional trauma is compounded by hostile employers who discriminate against women for wanting a baby. Women are incredibly vulnerable at this time, and they need support from their employer, rather than prejudice. And employers should be very aware that this type of behaviour is unlawful and could land them in court if they are not careful.”
Serena, not her real name, said spoke out as part of the study.
She said, “When I was going through fertility treatment there was huge discrimination against me. And since I left, they have put an amendment in their contracts saying they will not allow time off – paid or unpaid – for any fertility treatment.
“I have been told repeatedly that any side effects from fertility treatment are self-inflicted and I was selfish for having special measures in place as it put more pressure on the rest of the team, just so I could have a baby.”
Pregnant Then Screwed is launching a new programme to help employers become better at dealing with reproductive health issues in the workplace. In June they will be hosting a free Women in the Workplace seminar, where businesses can find out more about the new training and accreditation scheme, designed to signal fertility-friendly employers.
To take part, click here.
Did you suffer workplace discrimination when having IVF treatment?
How has your fertility journey affected how you are treated in the workplace?
