Managing Trying to Conceive in the Workplace

When you’re trying to conceive, it’s easy to start to feel as if you are losing control of what is happening to you.

One of the best ways to regain some of that control is to be well-informed, the more you know about your own fertility, the more empowered you will feel.

Building a family is a fundamental part of many lives which can have a devastating impact to those whose journey isn’t easy. Sadly, the reality of this challenge is rarely recognised and often misunderstood by employers and as a result, many people suffer in silence.

Some top tips for dealing with work while you are TTC and some advice about how you can get your employer to support you.

Check the policies

Are you allowed time off for medical appointments or can they offer you flexible working?

Be proactive in offering solutions

Managing workload/advanced notice of appointments – schedule a chat with your line manager or HR to explain what you are going through, it’s an emotive subject to talk about so prepare some notes to help you talk through everything

Treatment regimes and protocols

You may well need to inform and educate your employer about some of this because the likelihood is they will have no clue – be clear about who you want to be privy to this information

Look at what support is available to you

Make yourself aware of any additional support options available, such as Occupational Health or counselling services Of course you don’t actually have to tell your employer anything if you don’t want to but bear in mind that it’s easier to get help from them if they know what is happening.

If you are having fertility treatment, check out the Fertility Matters At Work Website (https://fertilitymattersatwork.com) for more advice, guidance and info for both you and your employer.