Juggling Emails and Embryos: Your Guide to Balancing Work and IVF

Let’s be honest, the world of work can be demanding. Deadlines loom, meetings multiply, and that inbox never seems to empty. But what if, amidst the spreadsheets and conference calls, you’re also embarking on the incredible (and sometimes overwhelming) journey of IVF? Fear not! Striking a balance between career goals and family dreams is absolutely possible. We’re here to walk you through strategies to balance your work responsibilities with a demanding IVF journey.

How Much Time Will You Need?

The good news is, while there are many (many!) IVF appointments to schedule and attend, most (consultations, ultrasounds, blood draws) are relatively quick and can be scheduled during off-peak hours or at a clinic conveniently located near your workplace. The biggest time commitment comes during the egg retrieval process, which usually involves a short stay at a surgical center (think same-day procedure) followed by a recovery day at home. Our advice? If possible, find a high-quality fertility specialist near your workplace that offers monitoring hours before—or after—your work hours.  

Boss Talk: Open Up or Keep It Private?

This is a personal choice. Some women find sharing their IVF journey with their boss and colleagues creates a supportive environment, while others prefer to keep it private. One question to consider is how you would feel if people ask how your treatment is going. For some, having to answer these questions from well-meaning coworkers can increase the stress and pressure. There’s no right or wrong answer, but here are some things to consider:

• Consider the policies: What’s your workplace’s position on absences for medical appointments? Don’t be afraid to leverage resources like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) for protected time off during medical procedures, if needed.
• Proactively make a plan: Which coworkers will be most impacted by your absence during appointments? Will someone pick up your work, or will you be able to make it up on your own? Consider these factors and make a plan for how your work will get done, before sharing the news with your boss. This way, you’ll be prepared with a plan for ensuring responsibilities aren’t overlooked.
• Weigh potential benefits: Your boss may be understanding and offer flexible scheduling options for appointments or recovery time. Knowing what’s going on might also explain unexpected absences due to side effects.
• Set boundaries: If you choose to disclose, set clear boundaries with colleagues about how much information you’re comfortable sharing.
• Consider your comfort: This is your journey, and you deserve to feel empowered. If keeping things private feels best, then that’s perfectly okay!

Don’t forget:

You’re not alone! A 2023 study showed that 42% of women undergoing IVF reported needing to adjust their work schedules. Ultimately, only you and your partner can decide what you want to communicate. If you decide to tell your boss, make sure you plan what to say in advance. If you prefer to keep your fertility journey private, consider saying that you have a series of medical treatments scheduled in the next few weeks and that you may be late to work, have to leave early, or have lunchtime appointments. Be sure to let your employer know that the treatment is serious, but your condition is not life-threatening.

How Can I Get Support?

The physical and emotional toll of IVF can be heightened by the side effects of hormones used in treatment. During this time, don’t hesitate to lean on your support system, whether that includes your spouse, family, or friends. You may also find support groups at your fertility center or online, which can provide a safe space to talk to others with similar experiences. When balancing work and IVF treatments, it’s important to carve out time for self-care. Anything that makes you feel rested and relaxed can help, whether it’s light exercise, reading a good book, going out for lunch, or practicing mindfulness and meditation. The path to parenthood can be stressful, so it’s important to keep taking care of yourself. 

The key takeaway

Juggling work and IVF can feel like a high-wire act, but with a little planning, self-care, and open communication, you can achieve a healthy work-life balance while pursuing your family-building dreams. You’ve got this!