It’s not always easy to know how to balance your career and your fertility journey.

Each individual will have their own answer to this question; hopefully we can help you consider the possible effects of quitting work for IVF from all angles.

This article will help you weigh the pros and cons, from financial factors and appointment flexibility to maintaining your career and exploring other options.

If you’re struggling to balance your career and fertility journey, we’re here to help. Contact us today for guidance to find the best path forward for your family.

Should I Quit my Job for IVF: 5 Considerations

Deciding between working during IVF and quitting your job depends on factors like job stress, financial stability and your personal IVF journey.  

Leaving a job is a major life event for anyone, especially prospective parents. Any decision you and your family make is valid. Before making up your mind, consider the situation from these points of view.

1. Is Your Job Adding Stress to Your IVF Journey??

A stressful job and IVF can be a lot to cope with at once, the stress of one adding to the stress the other.

Some women experience the stress of their careers as negatively impacting their pregnancy. It’s well established that stress can affect fertility; whether or not your job adds stress to your life is contingent on your individual circumstances.

2. Can You Afford IVF Without Your Income?

IVF is an expensive process, costing an average of $25,000 – and most prospective parents will need more than one round.  Affording IVF can be challenging for a single or no-income family.

Before quitting, explore alternatives like IVF grants, insurance benefits or adjusting your budget.

Need help exploring financial options for IVF or surrogacy? Contact us today to learn about grants, insurance coverage and alternative solutions like surrogacy or check out our article on financial resources for your fertility journey.

3. Are You Able to Take Time off Work for IVF Appointments?

IVF requires strict scheduling for medical procedures, and appointment timing can conflict with work hours.

If your job is time-consuming and not flexible with granting time off, IVF while working full-time may make difficult to attend appointments.

Talk to your employer about taking time off work for IVF appointments or consider remote work options.

4. Will You Be Able to Return to Your Old Job?

A career break might leave gaps on your resume, which could affect future job prospects. While resume gaps are becoming a bit more acceptable, they still may not be ideal.

Consider whether or not your job will be protected, and for how long, if you take time off work for IVF, or if you’d feel comfortable re-entering the workforce later. 

5. Are You Fulfilled Outside of IVF?

For some, working during IVF can be a welcome escape from stress as they wait for their results. Others prefer to dedicate all their energy and attention into the process. Reflect on what helps you feel most supported and balanced.

IVF and Working Full-Time: Managing Time and Stress

IVF is stressful enough on its own. Depending on the kind of career you have, IVF and working full-time can be physically and emotionally exhausting.

If you’re juggling a stressful job and IVF, quitting may benefit your mental and physical wellbeing, which can translate to higher success rates in your fertility journey.

However, some women experience their job as a sense of joy and security through the IVF process. The day-to-day routine and sense of tangible progress work can provide may reduce stress and foster a more positive mindset.

If your employer has a strict policy on time off, it may require more strategic planning.

Tips for Time Management

• Plan Appointments in Advance: As soon as you receive your IVF treatment schedule, mark all key dates on your calendar. Try to book appointments for early mornings or after work hours, if possible, to minimize disruptions to your workday.
• Take Advantage of Remote Work or Flexible Hours: If your job offers flexibility, adjust your hours around your IVF appointments. A more adaptable work schedule can significantly reduce stress.
• Communicate with Your Employer: Be upfront with your employer about the time-sensitive nature of IVF appointments. Having open communication can help them understand your situation and may lead to a more supportive work environment.
• Create a Buffer for Recovery: Plan a few extra days off after major procedures like egg retrieval. Having time to rest and recuperate before returning to work can make a significant difference in how you feel both physically and emotionally.

To help manage the emotional challenges of IVF and working full-time, here are some practical strategies that can provide support during this demanding time.

Tips for Coping Emotionally

• Set Boundaries: Be clear with yourself and your employer about the emotional toll IVF is taking. It’s okay to admit that you’re struggling and may need a bit more flexibility in your work hours or responsibilities.
• Seek Emotional Support: Whether it’s a partner, family member, close friend or therapist, having someone to lean on during the IVF process can help you manage the emotional rollercoaster.
• Practice Stress-Relief Techniques: Integrating practices like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help you remain calm and centered during stressful moments. Even 10-minute breaks can make a difference.
• Be Kind to Yourself: IVF is hard, and you’re doing the best you can. Accepting that it’s okay to not be at your best during this time can reduce unnecessary self-pressure.

The decision to continue working during IVF or stepping away is deeply personal.

We know you’re dedicated to your parenthood journey. This decision comes down to you, what you feel and what your body is telling you.

Do I Tell My Boss I’m Doing IVF?

Telling your boss you’re undergoing IVF may allow you to request special considerations, like flexible hours or extra time off.

The answer really depends on your workplace culture, your relationship with your employer, and your comfort level.

Many employers, especially those with family-friendly policies, may be more than willing to offer accommodations that make balancing IVF and work easier.

Here are some tips to help you approach the discussion with confidence and clarity:

1. Plan Ahead: If you’re preparing to speak with your boss about your IVF journey, be sure to prepare ahead of time. Being clear about your needs can help your boss understand the situation and find ways to support you. If you need more flexibility with your schedule or deadlines, communicate that clearly.
2. Keep It Professional, But Personal: While IVF is a deeply personal experience, you don’t need to go into every detail. Share only what you’re comfortable with, and keep the focus on how it may affect your work. Keep the tone positive and solution-oriented, focusing on how you plan to manage your work responsibilities.
3. Maintain Open Communication: Check in with your boss periodically to ensure that everything is still working smoothly and to discuss any new developments. This helps build trust and shows that you’re committed to balancing work and your IVF journey.

If you approach the conversation with confidence, clarity and professionalism, you’ll likely find your boss is more willing to accommodate your needs.

Feeling Overwhelmed after Multiple Failed IVF Attempts? Consider Surrogacy

If IVF and working full-time is taking a toll, especially after multiple failed IVF attempts, you may want to look at other options.

Surrogacy could be that path forward.

Surrogacy retains many of the benefits of IVF, such as using your genetic material to have a child but carries very few of the facets that make IVF difficult to manage alongside a successful career.

When you choose surrogacy, you’ll partner with a surrogate who carries your child for you. You won’t have to worry about taking time off for repeated treatments or dealing with the physical and emotional toll of unsuccessful cycles.

How American Surrogacy Can Help

We specialize in supporting intended parents through every stage of the surrogacy process. Whether you’re just starting to consider surrogacy or you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to:

• Guide You Through the Process: Our experienced team will help you understand what surrogacy entails and how it fits with your unique needs.
• Match You with a Surrogate: We’ll help you find the right surrogate for your family in as little as 1-6 months, helping you become parents quicker.
• Coordinate Medical and Legal Support: From medical screenings to legal agreements, we’ll handle the details so you can focus on what matters most—your family.
• Protect Your Investment: Surrogacy is a significant financial commitment. Our Limited Risk Program offers transparency and protections that fit your situation, reducing financial risk.

Surrogacy can offer the balance you’re looking for, allowing you to keep building your career without putting your dreams of parenthood on hold.

If IVF feels overwhelming or you’re ready to explore other family-building options, surrogacy could be the perfect solution. Contact us today to get personalized support to take the next step in your journey to parenthood.