Ondřej is a reliable analyst who, together with his partner, has been struggling with infertility for a long time and is undergoing repeated IVF cycles. The psychological burden, financial co-payments, and the need for unexpected time off complicated his ability to focus at work.
Employees benefit from support even in challenging life situations.
Thanks to company benefits, contributions to IVF, psychological support, and flexible working hours, he gained much-needed relief and the feeling that he was not alone. An employee with support delivers more stable performance and remains loyal to a company that helps them in difficult times.
Why this matters for employers
Supporting employees in the area of family planning is one of the strongest tools for building loyalty.
- Retention of key talent
- Reduction of “presenteeism”
- Strong employer brand
- Lower turnover
One in five to six couples in the Czech Republic faces infertility. Infertility is a disease with a significant psychological and financial impact. The stress during IVF is comparable to that of oncology patients, and despite partial health insurance coverage, out-of-pocket costs for one treatment cycle can reach 30,000 to 80,000 CZK.
What the expert says?
“Infertility treatment is not a sprint, but a marathon that often lasts for years. For couples, it is an extremely demanding period when their entire lives start to revolve around calendars, ovulation, and medical appointments. Not only women, but also men like Ondřej carry a heavy burden—they must support their partner, handle financial pressure, and still perform at work.
If an employer can offer understanding and flexibility during this period, or even financial support, it significantly reduces the risk that the employee will burn out or suffer psychological collapse under pressure. Reproductive health is simply an integral part of overall well-being.”
