How to support a support a colleague needing to use a donor to conceive'

The F Word at Work

Welcome to our last epsiode of 2024, which is another 'How to support a colleague' episode and this time hears two of our co-founders in conversation. Natalie speaks with Becky about her route to parenthood. Becky, who is also the founder of Paths to Parenthood, shares her personal journey through egg donation and the unique challenges she faced at work during that time.

Becky’s story provides invaluable insights for HR professionals, managers, and colleagues who want to create a supportive and understanding environment.

Here’s what we discuss:

• Becky shares up her decision to pursue egg donation after multiple rounds of IVF and a miscarriage. She talks about the emotional complexities of grieving the loss of using her own eggs while embracing a new path to parenthood.

• From handling unpredictable schedules to dealing with well-meaning but challenging questions, Becky reflects on how she managed work commitments while undergoing egg donation treatment abroad.

• We discuss how well-intentioned comments, like questions about resemblances or the use of terms like “real mum,” can be triggering for those navigating donor conception. Becky offers advice on how colleagues can approach these topics with sensitivity and respect.

• Becky highlights the importance of workplace policies that recognize donor conception and other alternative paths to parenthood. Even a simple acknowledgment in HR policies can make employees feel seen and supported.

• We discuss the importance of emotional support and peer networks for those navigating donor conception, as it’s often a deeply personal and stigmatized journey.

• We talk through the impact of cultural and societal stigmas on donor conception and how workplaces can play a role in shifting narratives and creating a more inclusive environment.

• Becky and Natalie also take a moment to reflect on the highlights of the year, from hosting our F Word at Work Live event during Fertility Week to launching new resources and campaigns that continue to drive awareness around workplace fertility.

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