As the war in Ukraine continues, many soldiers are taking steps to preserve their chances of having a family in the future. Oleksandr, a 36-year-old soldier on the frontline since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, has chosen to freeze his sperm as a precaution. Like many of his comrades, he faces daily risks that could impact his fertility or even cost him his life.
His wife, Kateryna, currently lives as a refugee in the Czech Republic, and while they dream of raising children together, wartime realities have forced them to make difficult decisions. “I want to raise my child, not just leave them with my partner,” Oleksandr said, emphasizing his hope for a future family.
A Government-Backed Initiative
Under new legislation introduced this year, Ukrainian soldiers can now freeze their sperm for free, a move aimed at countering the country’s declining birth rate. The war has severely worsened Ukraine’s demographic crisis, with the UN estimating a population decline of nearly 19 percent since 2022.
Clinics across Ukraine have reported a surge in civilians and soldiers opting for sperm and egg freezing in anticipation of better times. The Feskov clinic in Kharkiv, located near the Russian border, has adapted to the situation by storing genetic material in secret locations away from potential Russian strikes.
War’s Impact on Family Planning
Daria Chernyshova, a 23-year-old student from Lyman, has also frozen her eggs, fearing that motherhood amid war would be too challenging. The war has affected relationships as well, making dating more difficult. With recruiters actively seeking young men for military service, many Ukrainian women are finding it hard to meet potential partners.
For now, Chernyshova is focusing on her career and considering the possibility of moving abroad to find stability. “Where can we go to meet, or do we just talk on Skype?” she asked, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding personal relationships in wartime Ukraine.
Despite the challenges, many Ukrainians remain hopeful that when the war ends, they will be able to rebuild their families and contribute to a long-awaited “baby boom.”
