Infertility – the inability to conceive – is a major health problem that affects people physically and even more emotionally. In fact, one study showed that infertility can prove to be as traumatic a life event as receiving a cancer diagnosis. While the advancement of science means the availability of many infertility treatments, apart from the cost factor, they can be time-consuming and increase your stress. And when you have to balance your career with infertility treatment, it can make life more difficult for you. Dr. Ashwati Nair, Fertility Specialist, Nova IVF Fertility, Rajouri Garden, Delhi, shares important tips on how to maintain work-life balance during fertility treatment.
“About one in eight people experience difficulties when trying to conceive,” says Dr., making infertility a prevalent concern that affects a large number of individuals and couples around the world. At the same time, the demand for fertility treatments has gradually increased.” Nair. She adds, “In recent times, there has been a significant increase in the search for fertility solutions among the working population. As a result, many individuals are apprehensive about effectively managing their full-time work commitments while undergoing fertility treatment. The resounding answer to concerns is definitely yes. It is possible to balance work responsibilities and IVF treatment, but it requires prioritizing one’s health and well-being without overburdening oneself.”
Navigating Fertility Treatment: Facing Challenges
Dr. Aswati Nair says finding the right balance between work and fertility treatment requires careful planning, communicating with employers, and taking necessary breaks when necessary to ensure physical and emotional well-being. Talking about the challenges faced, Dr. Nair says, “Apart from the obvious physical and emotional impact of fertility treatment, the commitment of time and energy creates significant challenges for individuals. A harrowing journey in fertility treatment The procedure involves frequent clinical visits for procedures such as blood tests, ultrasounds, and consultations. Additionally, adherence to a strict medication schedule, including taking medications and injections on time, reduces the risk of complications in the procedure. adds another layer. These factors, combined with stress and emotional burden, contribute to a taxing experience for individuals undergoing fertility treatment. Maintaining a good work-life balance is essential as it not only increases your chances of conceiving. not only helps but also improves the quality of one’s life.”
Fertility Treatment: How to Maintain a Balanced Life
Dr. Nair lists some of the following steps to accomplish work-life balance:
Accept Deadline: Once you have sorted out your uncertainties and opted for the In Vitro Fertilization or IVF process, your next task is to familiarize yourself with the timelines of the process. To attend the clinic you will need to book morning or evening appointments. Additionally, compile a record of the days when you will need time off from work. This proactive approach will aid in better organization and preparation, ensuring that you can effectively manage your work commitments while going through the IVF process.
Plan well in advance: Before introducing the possibility of flexible working hours, it is important to have a plan in place in advance to maintain your productivity and avoid last-minute chaos. You have the most comprehensive understanding of your job responsibilities, so formulating the most effective strategy lies in your expertise. Creating a solid plan and demonstrating the changes helps individuals on both sides keep expectations under control and manage them effectively.
Physical rest is very important: To combat physical discomfort, consider updating your work attire. Opt for comfortable and flowy pieces like flowing tunics, wrap dresses and comfortable flats. Eating small and frequent meals and snacks works wonders for many people.
Slow but steady: When undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures, it is important to manage your ongoing responsibilities effectively. It is important to breathe frequently and avoid overexerting yourself. It is completely acceptable to fulfill both personal and professional aspirations during this period. Overdoing it may interfere with your scheduled appointments, potentially affecting the success of treatment. Additionally, excess stress and pressure can reduce your chances of conceiving.
Self-care is important in fertility treatment
“Apart from the above changes, adopt certain measures in your personal life to ensure a smooth fertility journey,” says Dr Nair. She mentions the following points:
Partner with your spouse: It is important to cooperate with your spouse to deal with this challenging phase. Dealing with personal and household tasks together will reduce anxiety and create a positive environment for each other. Remember not to take the entire burden on yourself; Teamwork is paramount in this journey.
Self-Care Schedule: Allocate consistent time to engage in activities that help reduce stress. Be it journaling, cooking, baking, taking walks and spending time with nature; These activities can contribute to reducing stress levels. Exploring deep breathing techniques and attending mindfulness classes or using mindfulness apps can also provide similar benefits. Discover the methods you like most and incorporate them into your daily routine for effective stress management.
Quality Sleep: It is important to ensure quality sleep during this period, so individuals should strive to get at least 7 hours of sleep each night during treatment. Creating a favorable sleep environment and adopting healthy sleep habits can significantly contribute to managing stress, and supporting your body’s processes and overall well-being during this time.
“Flexible work arrangements and support are essential as they enable employees undergoing IVF to attend frequent medical appointments and receive daily hormonal injections without unnecessary stress. Implementing such arrangements demonstrates a supportive workplace environment that Recognizes the unique needs of each working employee. Leaders who take the time to understand the IVF journey can approach an employee’s fertility experience with empathy and compassion, fostering a culture of understanding and caring within the organization. ”