Beyond benefits: The future of family building

Despite the recent legal challenges, the future of fertility care is promising because fertility and family-building benefits are here to stay.

Rising demand: Demographic trends point to a continued increase in the need for ART. Delayed childbearing is a major factor, with birth rates for women aged 35-44 on the rise. Infertility rates are also climbing. With estimates suggesting one in six couples faces difficulty conceiving, it's no surprise nearly half of Gen Z women report being worried about their fertility. 62.7% report family-building and maternity support as critical considerations when selecting a new position.
Technological advancements: Medical advancements are making fertility treatments more successful and accessible. This not only increases success rates but also broadens the range of individuals who can benefit from ART—including same-sex couples, single parents, couples experiencing infertility, and women who are delaying motherhood.
Employee demand for benefits: While organizations across all industries have taken steps to close the gap in fertility and family-building care, only 59% of employees acknowledge their current benefits align with their needs. A staggering 81% of women believe employer-provided fertility benefits and support, including egg and sperm freezing, are crucial for proactive reproductive health management.
Employee retention and loyalty: Investing in employees' wellbeing by offering family-building benefits fosters a sense of loyalty and appreciation. Employees who feel supported by their employers are more likely to stay engaged and productive, with 72% of employees saying they would stay at their company longer with access to fertility and family-building benefits.
Employer recognition of value: Leading organizations understand the value of offering comprehensive family-building benefits. Over 50% of large US companies now offer such solutions, and this trend is likely to continue. Companies that prioritize family-building benefits position themselves as attractive employers who understand the evolving needs of their workforce. This is particularly true in today's competitive talent market.

Investing in the future

Even as legal limitations surrounding reproductive health evolve, the future of family building appears promising. The demand for fertility care is undeniable, and advancements in technology are making these treatments more accessible. Companies are increasingly recognizing the value of offering comprehensive family-building benefits, not only to support employees but also to attract and retain top talent. As employers evaluate their current benefit strategies, it's important to remember there's no one-size-fits-all approach to family-building and family wellbeing. It's important to find customized and inclusive, managed solutions that not only fit existing benefit ecosystems, but also address potential legal challenges and financial considerations, and promote optimal care pathways. These are all critical to ensure companies are well-positioned to support their employees' family-building journeys—fostering a happier, healthier, more productive workforce.

Instant Insights /

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