Trying to conceive a child may seem like a full-time effort, which can make balancing infertility treatments and your job difficult. Although some women take off during this time, that solution may not work for every person. Having a definite plan of action will help you protect your job and continue your efforts to have the baby you desire.
Review the company policy on medical leave so that you understand the guidelines as they relate to your situation. Find out if flex time or working from home options exist, especially on treatment days, so that you miss a minimal amount of work during infertility treatment.
While you may not want to tell the whole office, you need to be honest with your supervisor. Infertility treatments often require daily appointments for certain phases of your cycle. Giving your boss a head’s up is more likely to garner you the flexibility and understanding that you need.
Most people spend 8 to 10 hours a day at their place of work. During the treatment process, it may help to have at least one co-worker who knows your current situation. Then, you will have support available if your cycle fails or things don’t work out as planned.
Realize that the people you tell about your struggles will want to offer encouragement, but they may also have questions or ask for details. Respond positively to their gestures, but feel free to let your co-workers know that you don’t want to share more information at this time.
Often, co-workers like to celebrate each other’s pregnancies or swap photos of their adorable babies. You may not feel like participating in these activities while trying to conceive. Send a card or contribute to the office gift, but don’t feel like you have to take part in these baby showers or luncheons if you aren’t up to it.
Make sure the fertility center staff and your reproductive endocrinologist understand any work issue that could impact your treatment. Many clinics offer early morning or evening appointments to accommodate working women.
If coping with your treatments and your career feels overwhelming, talk with your partner about a leave of absence or working part-time. Finances will likely factor heavily in your decision-making, but if you can swing it, you may feel less stressed by focusing all your energy on getting pregnant.
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