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Workplace Guide to Fertility - Fertility Treatments 101

Course / Fertility Treatments 101

Why Patients Need Their Jobs

For individuals undergoing fertility treatment, it can be nearly impossible to separate work life from personal life. The two often overlap — emotionally, financially, and logistically.

Many patients worry that if colleagues or supervisors find out they’re trying to have a baby, it could affect how they’re perceived or even put their job security at risk. When someone confides in you about their fertility journey, it’s a significant act of trust. They’re counting on your discretion and sensitivity.

Beyond privacy, most patients deeply need their jobs — not only for financial stability but also for emotional balance. Work can offer structure, purpose, and a sense of normalcy during an otherwise uncertain and stressful time. It may even serve as a welcome distraction from ongoing disappointment or anxiety.

Financially, employment is essential. Fertility treatments, particularly IVF, are expensive and often require multiple cycles to succeed. The cumulative costs can easily reach six figures, meaning that a stable income or employer support can make the difference between pursuing treatment or having to stop altogether.

Loyalty and Return To Work

Research and employee surveys consistently show that when employers provide fertility coverage, workers respond with stronger loyalty and commitment to their organization. They feel valued and supported — especially in one of life’s most vulnerable seasons.

Moreover, when fertility treatments are successful, most employees return to work after having their child. That investment in care and trust often pays off in retention, morale, and long-term engagement.

Schedules

Fertility treatment schedules can be unpredictable and demanding, often conflicting with traditional work hours. Appointments, procedures, and medication routines can require frequent adjustments to a person’s day.

Travel Challenges

Many patients must attend early morning medical appointments and administer timed injections at home each evening. This makes travel extremely difficult — they need to be near their clinic for monitoring and procedures that can’t be delayed.

Some, however, are required to travel. They might need to visit a specialist in another city or meet an egg donor or surrogate in a different state. These trips are often urgent and tied to critical medical timelines.

Mornings

Fertility clinics are notorious for running behind schedule, especially during morning appointments. This isn’t something patients can control. By the time they leave, they may be contending with traffic or arriving late to work. Whenever possible, colleagues and managers can help by scheduling meetings later in the day.

Phone Calls

During treatment, patients may need to keep their phones nearby — even during work hours. Calls can bring important updates, such as lab results, procedure timing, or potentially life-changing news about a pregnancy.

These moments can be emotional and time-sensitive. Offering privacy and patience allows the person to take a few minutes to process, contact their partner, or step outside before resuming work.

Procedures

Fertility treatments often involve procedures like IUI or IVF, which must happen at precise times. These cannot be postponed or rescheduled without risking the entire treatment cycle.

Unfortunately, the exact timing is often uncertain until a day or two beforehand. In the case of an IVF egg retrieval, recovery can take a full day or longer — and partners may need to assist during that period.

Flexibility and understanding from employers and colleagues can make these stressful moments far more manageable.