How to maintain work-life balance when undergoing fertility treatments
For individuals and couples, fertility treatments can be incredibly demanding and emotionally draining. There are often many appointments, consultations, tests, and procedures involved in the process, which takes up considerable time and energy. Consequently, they may experience various mental and emotional challenges in their everyday lives. NewsBytes touched base with experts to understand how to strike a work-life balance while undergoing IVF treatments.
Share your schedule at the workplace
Integrating fertility treatment with a full-time job can be challenging for women. "They must share their IVF procedure at their workplace and plan the timeline of treatment efficiently to gain professional and emotional support," says Dr. Manpreet Sodhi, Consultant - Obstetrics, Gynecology and ART, Paras Health, Gurugram. "In case of appointments/tests, one must always have a teammate who can share the workload," she says.
Plan ahead
Your appointments will mostly be scheduled as per your work needs. Dr. Shilpa Singhal, Consultant, Birla Fertility & IVF, New Delhi advises a detailed and open discussion with your doctor to help you understand the purpose of the visit, alleviating the anxiety at each visit. "Timely planning and delegation will help you plan your visits," she says.
Lifestyle changes
The fertility treatment includes hormone injections, egg retrieval, embryo transfer, and multiple appointments, tests, and consultations that can put various challenges in one's daily life. "A lifestyle change can improve a woman's chances of conceiving. It involves a balanced diet, daily physical exercise, stress management, maintaining a healthy BMI, and abstaining from harmful substances such as tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption," says Dr. Singhal.
Self-care
Self-care is not a luxury; rather, it is a necessity. Dr. Sighal recommends that taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally is crucial, especially during times of increased stress. "Indulging in activities that ignite a spark of joy should be encouraged, be it journaling your thoughts and feelings, cooking, or spending time outdoors in nature for optimal emotional well-being," she says.
Stay connected
The expert opines that having people to talk to such as counselors and fellow patients undergoing similar treatment, helps provide a comfortable and non-judgmental space to understand the journey. Dr. Sodhi also emphasizes the support from your partner. "Planning the treatment with your spouse provides a comfortable environment at home helping in managing the household chores and taking out time for the appointments."
