Creating Balance Between Your Work Life and Infertility Treatment Schedule Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Overcoming infertility and starting a family can feel like a never-ending journey that’s full of twists and turns. However, once you’ve received your fertility diagnosis and started treatment comparisons, it might seem like the hard part is over.
Unfortunately, the trials and tribulations of your conception experience are probably just beginning.
One of the most challenging aspects of getting pregnant by using techniques such as IUI, fresh egg donation, or traditional IVF is finding time in your schedule to get everything done – especially when you’re working a full-time job.
While getting work done in advance or talking to your boss might not be the most relaxing solutions available, tips like these can help you create a better balance between your career and infertility treatment schedule.
1. Have a Conversation With Your Boss
If you don’t feel comfortable talking to your boss about your infertility experiences, you’re not alone. However, this is one of the most crucial steps you can take in creating a work/life balance during your treatment.
While you don’t have to relay every minor detail about your process, providing a general idea of what your supervisor can expect from you during the coming weeks and months can soften the blow when you have to start taking time away from work for appointments, lab work, and procedures.
In most situations, it’s not likely your boss will take work off your plate during the process, but often, they’ll help employees figure out flexible work schedules to accommodate time constraints.
If you’ve tried speaking to your boss and are getting pushback or negativity, don’t be afraid to bring the situation to HR. They can help protect your rights as an employee and ensure you receive the fair treatment you deserve.
2. Schedule Appointments Before and After Work (if Possible!)
As with other doctors, fertility specialists usually have hours that coincide with most workplaces. For some appointments, however, such as blood work and ultrasounds, early morning and evening time slots are available.
As much as possible, try to schedule these appointments before or after work. This will help you limit the amount of time you’re away from your job.
You can also utilise your lunch breaks for these appointments. Just remember that taking breaks during the day for self-care are also important during fertility treatment.
3. Get Work Done in Advance When You Can
Do you know that a big project is due in the coming months that will interfere with your treatment? Try your best to get things done ahead of time. This way you can lessen the amount of work on your plate during your infertility procedure.
It’s also beneficial to have good team members around you that can help pick up the slack and handle problems while you’re away, if needed.
4. Learn About Your Treatment in Advance
No matter what infertility treatment you choose, the overall process will require a significant number of steps. Whether it’s lab work, ordering medications, or meeting with your doctor, there’s a lot to keep track of.
Before you get started, it’s helpful to research as much about your selected treatment as possible. This will help you understand what you can expect and what you need to plan for regarding your job.
5. Keep Your Stress Levels in Check
It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the constant pressure of managing your job and fertility treatment. Without the proper precautions in place, the stress of the situation can quickly become too much.
Finding ways to manage your stress levels during treatment is crucial. There are many ways to help take care of yourself, such as:
- Journaling about your experience
- Starting an exercise routine
- Having acupuncture treatments
- Practicing meditation and/or yoga
- Finding a new hobby (or practicing an old one)
- Spending time with friends and family
- Going on dates with your partner
Take the Right Steps to Minimise the Challenges of Working During Fertility Treatments
There’s no denying it; working a full-time job during any type of infertility protocol isn’t going to be easy. However, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible!
By taking the right steps and making moves to organise your schedule the best way for you, you can alleviate some of the hardships that come from balancing your career and treatment. Whether you start taking a yoga class or get next month’s work done today, any little step will help.
The most important thing to remember is this is just a season of life. While striking that balance between life and work might seem daunting, the process will be over before you know it.
