A new Sims IVF survey reveals that approximately 80–86% of Irish people undergoing fertility treatment report that their workplaces lack any formal fertility or IVF support policy, with most having no accommodations for this deeply personal journey.
Respondents overwhelmingly indicated that fertility treatment (IVF, IUI, ICSI) significantly impacts both their emotional well‑being (98% agreed) and work performance (83%).
Despite these clear needs, most Irish workplaces remain silent or unprepared on the issue. Sims IVF has launched a guide titled “Navigating Fertility Treatment in the Workplace,” providing a fertility policy template, practical guidance, and educational resources for employers and HR professionals.
Niamh Doran, HR Manager at Sims IVF, highlighted that:
“Many Irish employees undergoing fertility treatment have faced a silent struggle… it’s not that employers are unsympathetic, but often they simply don’t understand the complexities…”
Employees often must use annual leave or even sick leave for medical appointments or recovery, even when workplace flexibility could ease the burden.
Peer voices, such as Caitríona Fitzpatrick of the National Infertility Support and Information Group (NISIG), stress that workplace awareness is vital. Fertility journeys are unpredictable, isolating, and emotionally intense—and supportive employers can make a huge difference.
How Other Organisations are Leading the Way in Ireland
Some forward‑thinking employers, particularly in the financial, legal and corporate sectors, have begun to implement fertility supports:
Grant Thornton Ireland offers five days of fully paid fertility leave per treatment cycle, and up to 20 days paid compassionate leave for pregnancy loss.
Leading firms like Arthur Cox, PwC, KPMG, Bank of Ireland, Vodafone, and Lidl are rolling out fertility leave, financial assistance, or fertility benefit packages often exceeding €50,000.
Beyond leave, workplace supports widely recommended by HR experts include:
- Flexible working arrangements, including remote options and adjusted hours for medical appointments.
- Paid fertility leave, with universities like UCD and UCC offering up to five days per cycle.
- Counselling, education initiatives, and broader wellness policies that encompass fertility.
Why Support Policies Matter for Employers and Employees
Infertility affects around 1 in 6 couples globally, making fertility issues common among working‑age adults.
Employees left without workplace support may suffer burnout, emotional distress or lowered productivity—and may resort to using annual or sick leave inappropriately.
Proactive fertility policies can foster inclusive workplace culture, improve retention, and reduce stigma—a benefit that also aligns with equality and wellness goals.
Policy Developments and Legislative Context
Currently, Irish law does not include a statutory entitlement to time off for IVF or fertility treatment appointments. Workers must rely on annual vacation, unpaid leave, or sick leave—even though these options are ill-suited to the reality of fertility care.
The Labour Party’s Reproductive Health Related Leave Bill, now at committee stage in the Seanad, proposes:
Up to 10 days paid leave for fertility treatments (e.g. IVF), for both employees and their partners.
Up to 20 days paid leave for early miscarriage recovery.
If enacted, this legislation would align Ireland with countries like New Zealand, offering legal support for reproductive health in the workplace.
What This Means Going Forward
The extension of free public IVF and ICSI treatment eligibility in Ireland as of June 30, 2025, now includes couples with one existing child, making healthcare access more equitable. However, the strain continues if workplaces fail to provide emotional or practical support.
In summary, while public policies evolve to improve access to fertility treatment, workplace practices are lagging behind. The evidence shows a strong and growing demand: the majority of individuals negotiating fertility challenges need understanding, flexibility, and dignity at work—ideally framed through clear, inclusive fertility policies.
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