Here’s a quick look at what we’ll cover:
- The emotional toll of war on family planning.
- How Ukrainian soldiers are using sperm freezing as an “insurance policy”.
- Ukraine’s demographic crisis and the hope for a post-war baby boom.
- The personal stories of those freezing eggs and sperm for a future time.
- Dating challenges in a war-torn country.
Dreams Deferred: Postponing Parenthood in a War Zone
Oleksandr, a Ukrainian soldier on the front lines, has a dream: a loving family with a daughter and a son. However, with the constant threat of Russian aggression, he’s putting those dreams on hold. Instead, he’s taking a proactive step to safeguard his future: freezing his sperm.
Since the full-scale offensive began in 2022, Oleksandr has been facing daily risks. As a hedge against these uncertainties, he’s decided to preserve his sperm. His wife, Kateryna, currently lives as a refugee in the Czech Republic, but Oleksandr is determined to create a life together.
An ‘Insurance Policy’ for the Future
Oleksandr envisions a future where they all live together in the mountains, surrounded by cats. But, the stark reality of war makes this seem like a distant dream. As a result, Oleksandr decided to follow the example of many fellow soldiers and freeze his sperm.
New legislation now allows Ukrainian soldiers to freeze their sperm for free, with many clinics offering this service. Oleksandr emphasizes the unpredictability of war, citing potential fertility issues caused by combat stress or even the risk of death. He wants his wife to have the option of having their child, even if he is no longer around.
He calls it an “insurance policy,” providing reassurance amidst uncertainty. Despite the emotional difficulty of imagining his wife raising their child without him, Oleksandr prioritizes Kateryna’s choice.
Ukraine’s Demographic Crisis: A Nation in Decline
Ukraine was already facing a demographic crisis before the war, but the Russian invasion has amplified the problem. The UN estimates that Ukraine’s population of 43 million in 2022 has decreased by nearly 19 percent. The birth rate is now less than one child per woman—among the lowest globally.
The government hopes that the end of the war will usher in a “baby boom”. In the meantime, civilians are also freezing their eggs and sperm, hoping for a brighter future to start their families. While official statistics are unavailable, clinics are reporting a surge in demand for these procedures.
Personal Sacrifices: Freezing Time for Future Families
The Feskov clinic in Kharkiv reports a significant increase in civilians freezing sperm and eggs since the war began. Demand spikes whenever the conflict intensifies. Despite the ongoing Russian strikes, the clinic has remained open, even building an underground laboratory to protect the genetic material.
Dating in a War Zone: Love on Hold
Daria Chernyshova, a 23-year-old student, recently had her eggs frozen. She admits that the prospect of motherhood during wartime is frightening. After initially delaying her decision, she realized it was a necessary precaution due to the unpredictable nature of the conflict.
Daria, originally from Lyman, fled her home in 2022 as Russian troops advanced. She recalls the traumatic scenes of women evacuating with their children. Currently single, she wants to focus on her career and find a partner before having a baby.
The war has made dating even more challenging. With recruiters patrolling the streets, young men are wary of public gatherings, making real-life connections difficult. Daria jokes about resorting to Skype dates, hinting at the challenges of finding love amidst conflict.
Ultimately, she considers moving abroad to find a partner, highlighting the sacrifices and adjustments Ukrainians are making for their future families.