Fertility treatment is an intensely personal journey, yet a new UK study shows it is also deeply shaped by the workplace. Researchers found that employees undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) often face misunderstanding, exclusion, and a lack of support from colleagues and managers, with these challenges taking a toll on their mental health, career progression, and sense of belonging. The findings were published in the journal Frontiers in Sociology.
The two-year study, funded by The Leverhulme Trust, explored the experiences of 80 people, mostly women, who navigated complex fertility journeys while in employment. Many described the workplace as an alienating space during treatment, where colleagues’ pregnancies were celebrated but their own struggles went unrecognised. Some said they felt compelled to hide their situation to avoid stigma, while others found that disclosure led to awkwardness or even reduced opportunities.
Robin A. Hadley, PhD, and associate lecturer at Manchester Metropolitan University, explained that the study was shaped by the concept of “reproductive capital”, which draws on Pierre Bourdieu’s theoretical approach to understand how reproduction intersects with class, gender, and societal norms. “Reproductive capital intersects with economic, cultural, social, and symbolic capital, shaping workplace dynamics and individual experiences. The workplace can become an alienating environment where individuals accessing ART face scrutiny and judgment. Prevalent pronatalist ideologies contribute to experiences of symbolic violence for those unable to have children.”
For some, the problem was structural. Few organisations had formal policies to support staff undergoing fertility treatment, and when such policies did exist, they often covered only certain roles or excluded partners. This meant time off for appointments was frequently negotiated informally, leaving many to use annual leave or unpaid days. The inconsistency of provision, combined with high treatment costs, created additional pressure.
Financial strain was a recurring theme. Many had spent tens of thousands of pounds on private treatment after finding NHS options limited by strict eligibility rules and geographical variation. Some took out loans or relied on family to fund treatment. These costs were compounded by the emotional impact of repeated cycles and uncertainty over outcomes. For those on lower incomes or in less secure jobs, the expense could be prohibitive.
Hadley noted that the study’s sample was predominantly white, professional, and middle class. “Future studies should expand reproductive capital research to include more diverse demographic groups, such as black, disabled, migrant, and low-income people, as well as those with different parental statuses. Collecting broader cultural, economic, historical, and social background data will strengthen our understanding of how reproductive capital interacts with other forms of capital.”
Participants described moments when the workplace amplified their sense of exclusion. Pregnancy announcements, baby photos, and parental leave arrangements were common reminders of what they lacked. Some said these experiences shrank their social networks, both in and outside work, as peers moved into life stages they could not share. Others pointed to subtler disadvantages, such as being expected to cover for colleagues with childcare commitments without receiving similar concessions themselves.
Hadley said these findings highlight opportunities for governments, employers, and HR professionals to address the barriers faced by those undergoing fertility treatment. “Policies that account for diverse family structures throughout the life course can foster inclusion and improve employee satisfaction and retention.”
The study concluded that greater awareness and formal workplace support could help address these inequalities. Suggested measures included clear policies for time off during treatment, inclusive language in HR materials, and recognition of the emotional as well as practical challenges employees face. It also stressed that supporting fertility treatment is not only a matter of fairness but could improve staff retention and morale.
