Rugby Star Calls For Fertility Support

Meg Jones, captain of the Red Roses, is leading a call for the Rugby Football Union (RFU) to provide fertility support for rugby players. This comes after the introduction of funding for egg freezing and wider fertility treatment in women's football, with the Spanish football federation and Chelsea announcing financial support for fertility treatment.

The RFU currently has a robust maternity policy, which has been utilized by players including Abbie Ward, Lark Atkin-Davies, and Zoe Aldcroft. The governing body also offers a week of paid leave per fertility treatment cycle for those receiving treatment and for those attending appointments.

Jones, who has had her egg count checked with her fiancee, Celia Quansah, believes that the RFU should consider providing fertility support for players. Her England teammate, Hannah Botterman, and her partner, Georgia Evans, have also been researching their IVF journey.

## Why it matters The call for fertility support in rugby is part of a wider discussion about fertility in women's sport. Jones believes that players should not have to choose between their career and starting a family. The RFU's openness to exploring fertility support is a positive step, but the governing body does not yet offer financial support for fertility treatment.

The issue is not just about providing support for players, but also about creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in sport. With the RFU already offering some support for fertility treatment, the introduction of financial support could be a significant step forward.

## What happens next The RFU's willingness to explore fertility support is a positive sign, but it remains to be seen what concrete steps the governing body will take. Jones's call for action is likely to spark further discussion and debate about fertility support in rugby, and could potentially lead to changes in the RFU's policies.

The introduction of fertility support in women's football has shown that it is possible for governing bodies to provide financial support for fertility treatment. The RFU's decision to explore this issue could have a significant impact on the lives of female rugby players, and could help to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for women in sport.