IVF and work: how to balance both without burning out

Managing fertility treatment is a big deal on its own. Add work into the mix — early morning scans, injections before meetings, trying to act like everything’s fine — and it can all feel like a lot. 

We know many of our patients are juggling IVF while working full time. And while every workplace is different, it’s important to know that you have options, rights, and support available to you. 

Whether you’re early in your fertility journey or partway through treatment, here’s what to think about when navigating IVF and the workplace. 

• Telling your employer
• Your rights
• Managing IVF alongside work
• Tips for navigating work conversations
• Advice for managers and employers
• Being kind to yourself

Should I tell my employer I’m having IVF? 

There’s no rule that says you have to. Some people choose to keep it completely private. Others feel more comfortable letting their manager or HR team know. 

It’s entirely your decision — but being open can help make things easier when it comes to time off, flexibility, and support. 

You don’t need to go into every detail. A simple heads-up like, “I’m going through medical treatment which might affect my schedule over the next few weeks,” can be enough to start the conversation. 

If you do feel comfortable sharing, it might help to prepare: 

• What you’ll need time off for (e.g. scans, blood tests, egg collection, embryo transfer) 

• Whether you’ll need flexibility around medication times 

• Any physical or emotional support that could make a difference 

What rights do I have? 

Currently, there’s no specific legal right to time off work for IVF in the UK. But that doesn’t mean you’re without protection. 

If you’re employed and undergoing treatment, you may be entitled to: 

• Sick leave if you feel unwell due to medication side effects or after procedures 

• Annual leave to cover appointments or rest days 

• Flexible working if your role allows it 

If your employer offers fertility support as part of their HR policy or health benefits, it’s worth checking what’s available to you. Some companies now offer paid fertility leave, mental health support, or time off for partners too. 

And once you’ve had embryo transfer, you’re legally protected in the same way as someone who is pregnant — from that point onwards, your employer must follow pregnancy-related workplace protections. 

How to manage treatment alongside your job 

Here are a few things that might help if you’re balancing IVF with a busy work schedule: 

• Plan ahead where you can

Some steps in your treatment (like your initial tests and consultation) can be planned in advance. Others, like egg collection or embryo transfer, can shift depending on how your body responds to medication. 

Let your workplace know that you might need short-notice time off — even just a heads-up helps reduce the pressure later on. 

• Ask about flexibility

Some employers may offer flexible hours, remote working, or time off in lieu. You might want to shift your hours slightly to make room for early morning appointments or medication timings. 

Remember — this is medical treatment. You deserve the same flexibility and understanding you’d expect for any other health condition. 

• Listen to your body

It’s easy to power through when you’re busy. But treatment can be exhausting — physically, mentally, and emotionally. If you need to rest, take the day off, or ask for support, do it. You’re not being difficult — you’re looking after yourself. 

Tips for navigating work conversations 

If you choose to talk to your employer, these approaches might help: 

• Be clear about what you need — even if it’s just one afternoon off or no meetings before 10am. 

• Decide how much detail you want to share. It’s your story, and you’re in control of it. 

• Ask for the conversation to be confidential if that’s important to you. 

You might say: 

“I’m currently going through fertility treatment, and there may be times I need time off at short notice. I’d really appreciate any flexibility where possible.” 

If you're a manager or employer reading this 

Supporting your employee through IVF is about creating space — space for appointments, for recovery, and for the emotional toll this can take. 

Being flexible, showing compassion, and keeping conversations private can make all the difference. Even if you’re not sure what to say, start with: “I’m here if you need anything.” 

IVF is a full-time job in itself. Be kind to yourself. 

Treatment can come with lots of admin, emotions, and physical changes. If work’s feeling like another layer of pressure, you’re not alone — and there is support. 

At Care Fertility, we’ll always do our best to work around your schedule, and we’ll provide clear timelines so you can plan ahead when possible. You can also manage key documents, appointments, and medication through your companion app, making it easier to keep everything in one place.