Planning a family? 5 things Irish women should know about fertility, finances and future-proofing

For many Irish women, the journey to parenthood doesn’t begin with a positive test, it actually starts with a conversation.

This conversation is usually about timing, finances and fertility. Whether you’re actively trying, quietly considering the idea, or just starting to think about what your future may look like, planning a family today requires more than just hope and good intentions. It’s about preparing for the unexpected, from rising healthcare costs to understanding your rights in the workplace.

In a country where fertility treatments can cost thousands and maternity leave is often financially limited, having the right support in place can make all the difference. Planning for a family means navigating a complex landscape of healthcare, insurance and financial considerations. This means that having peace of mind is crucial.

As we move toward a more progressive view of family planning, more women are seeking future-proofing solutions that ensure they are supported no matter what stage they’re at. Fortunately, companies like its4women, in partnership with Irish Life Health, are stepping up to meet this need, offering insurance benefits that reflect the realities of modern life — whether you’re considering starting a family now or just keeping your options open for the future.

And so, here are five things every woman in Ireland should know when it comes to fertility, finances and future-proofing your path to motherhood. 

1. Fertility treatments aren’t always covered, but insurance can help

In recent years, Ireland has seen a growing openness around fertility struggles. What used to be whispered about is now openly discussed, yet access remains uneven. While the state introduced publicly-funded IVF in 2023 for eligible couples, access is still limited and often only includes one round of treatment, provided in just three clinics nationwide.

For many women and couples, private fertility treatment is the only viable route, but it’s not cheap. One round of IVF in Ireland costs between €4,000 and €7,000, not including medications, consultations or storage of embryos.

This is where future planning – and the right insurance – comes in.

its4women, in partnership with Irish Life Health, offer a fertility assessment benefit cover as standard on all hospital plans. And, depending on your plan, you can get up to €2,000 per year to help with the cost of fertility investigations or assisted reproduction treatments. It’s a step toward affordability, and a rare acknowledgement in insurance that fertility is not a luxury, it’s healthcare.

2. You’re entitled to maternity leave, but not necessarily full pay

Most Irish employees know they’re entitled to 26 weeks of statutory maternity leave, plus an optional 16 weeks’ unpaid extension. But what often gets missed in the fine print is that your employer is not obliged to pay you during this time, and many don’t.

You can claim Maternity Benefit through the Department of Social Protection (currently €274 per week), but that still leaves a significant drop in income, especially when your expenses are about to rise with a newborn.

That’s why some women start saving early or, increasingly, look to policies that provide an added financial cushion during parental leave.

With health insurance through its4women in partnership with Irish Life Health, maternity benefits can be included. While it won’t cover all costs, it can go toward bills. While it won’t cover all costs, it can go toward bills, baby equipment or those ‘why-is-every-nappy-bin-so-expensive’ moments.

3. Miscarriage and pregnancy complications deserve real support

Miscarriage is heartbreakingly common – affecting about one in four pregnancies – yet many women in Ireland still feel they have to ‘just get on with it.’

However, planning for a family includes planning for the unexpected, too and having a support system in place matters, whether it be emotional or financial. 

Health insurance plans through its4women in partnership with Irish Life Health can include early pregnancy and miscarriage benefits, such as counselling sessions and hospital cash benefits for pregnancy complications or extended stays. This kind of cover supports physical recovery and the emotional impact as well.

4. Mental health support is essential — before, during and after pregnancy

Trying to conceive can be stressful. Pregnancy can bring anxiety. Postpartum depression can hit unexpectedly, even months later. Yet access to mental health support in Ireland can be patchy, with long public waitlists and high private fees.

Health insurance through its4women in partnership with Irish Life Health can include access to virtual GP consultations, maternity mental health supports, and cover for private therapy and psychiatric treatment under their higher-tier packages.

It’s insurance that understands that motherhood isn’t just physical and can hold a myriad of invisible concerns. 

Whether you’re struggling with fertility disappointment, pregnancy anxiety or the heavy fog of the fourth trimester, knowing that support is available (and covered) makes it easier to reach out.

5. Future-proofing isn’t just for ‘now’

One of the biggest barriers for women planning for a baby is the uncertainty it can bring. 

Some are navigating careers and relocation. Others are freezing eggs or facing relationship breakdowns. Many simply haven’t decided yet, but don’t want to leave everything to chance.

That’s why forward-thinking insurance that includes fertility and maternity benefits – even before you’re pregnant – is worth considering. It’s not about locking yourself into a timeline. Having options can set you free. 

With health insurance through its4women in partnership with Irish Life Health, you can customise your health plan to match where you are in life, whether you’re just starting to think about kids, actively trying or already expecting. With four levels of cover, it’s possible to tailor your support, with benefits including:

• Fertility investigations and treatment support
• Mental health care
• Virtual GP access and 24/7 Nurse Line
• Cancer screenings, wellness checks and early detection benefits
• Welcome Home Hamper

So wherever you are on the journey – curious, cautious or craving cuddles and Calpol – don’t wait until you’re already in the thick of it.

Start planning now. Your future self will thank you.

Find out more on www.its4women.ie.

Terms and conditions apply. Please check your Irish Life Health Member Handbook and Table of Cover for details of exact cover. Health insurance through its4women is provided in partnership with Irish Life Health. Irish Life Health dac is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.