Family planning and reproductive health are essential considerations for many individuals and couples. But navigating the challenges of infertility can be overwhelming. For labor benefits leaders, the best starting point for grappling with better fertility benefits is understanding fertility and getting to know the pain points your members are experiencing as they try to grow their families.
Here, we’ll explore the basics of infertility, its causes, the common hurdles people face when accessing fertility benefits, and why benefits leaders within labor organizations should prioritize adding comprehensive fertility benefits for their members. By understanding these key points, we can pave the way for a more supportive and inclusive work environment.
Understanding infertility
Infertility affects millions of people worldwide, regardless of gender.
Female factors include hormonal imbalances, ovulation disorders, structural abnormalities of the reproductive organs, and age-related issues. Male infertility can stem from low sperm count, poor sperm motility or morphology, hormonal imbalances, genetic disorders, or structural issues. In many cases, infertility is attributed to a combination of male and female factors – or even unexplained causes.
But beyond the struggle to conceive, couples and individuals facing fertility issues often encounter challenges when accessing fertility benefits. These hurdles can include:
- Limited coverage; many health insurance plans have limited or no coverage for fertility treatments, making it financially burdensome for those seeking assistance.
- Lack of awareness; members may not be aware that fertility benefits exist or may not understand the extent of coverage available to them.
- Stigma and privacy concerns; the sensitive nature of infertility can lead to feelings of shame or reluctance to discuss it openly. This can create barriers to seeking support and utilizing available benefits.
- Restrictive policies; many coverage options include a required diagnosis of infertility or push members to undergo less-effective procedures before they can try a full IVF cycle. You can read more about this at actforfamilybuildingaccess.com.
How labor can take the lead
So, why should labor benefits leaders consider adding fertility benefits? Here are three big reasons:
- Member well-being; infertility takes a toll on individuals and couples emotionally, physically, and financially. By adding comprehensive fertility benefits, labor organizations demonstrate their commitment to supporting the overall well-being of their members. Accessible fertility treatments and family-building options alleviate the burdens associated with infertility, fostering a happier and more productive workforce.
- Attracting and retaining top talent; offering comprehensive fertility benefits sets labor organizations apart in a competitive job market. Members value organizations that prioritize their reproductive health needs, leading to increased job satisfaction, loyalty, and talent retention.
- Inclusivity and equity; comprehensive fertility benefits ensure that members have equal access to family-building options. By offering inclusive coverage, labor organizations create an inclusive work environment that values the diverse reproductive needs of their members.
By prioritizing comprehensive fertility benefits, labor organizations support the well-being of their members. Embracing the importance of fertility education, breaking down barriers for your members, and blazing a trail of accessible fertility care is a vital way to ensure our labor families can continue growing in a physically and financially healthy way.
If you’re new to the fertility space or just want to dig a little deeper into what your members are experiencing, check out Progyny’s Fertility 101 page with articles, expert interviews, and podcasts on everything family building.
Interested in learning more? Contact us: Stacey Hofert, Stacey.Hofert@progyny.com 847-372-9959 or Ron Abrahall, RN Ronald.Abrahall@progyny.com 631-294-2012
Ron Abrahall has held both elected and appointed union positions since 1982. He has served as a representative for the New York State Nurses Association, a former president of USW 9544, past President of BMFNHP AFT/ NYSUT, NYPD officer and a Neuro-Surgical Intensive Care RN.
