Guidance for Transitioning Back to Work After Fertility Treatment
Returning to work after completing a fertility treatment cycle can be a significant step for colleagues, and it’s important to approach this transition in a way that supports wellbeing.
Every individual’s experience with fertility treatment is unique, and the physical, emotional, and mental impacts can vary widely. While some may feel ready to return to their routine, others might experience lingering effects such as fatigue, emotional strain, or stress about workplace conversations.
Recognising these differences and allowing space for self-care, flexibility, and support can make the transition smoother and more manageable.
Below are suggestions to help ease the process:
- Confidentiality - If you choose to disclose details about your treatment or recovery, ensure you’re aware of confidentiality policies and feel supported in sharing only what you’re comfortable with.
- Phased Return to Work - If you have had a prolonged absence, your line manager may consider it appropriate to seek Occupational Health advice to support your return. As part of this process, Occupational Health may recommend a phased return to work, for example starting with shorter hours or adjusted workloads. This can help you gradually adapt to your regular routine while managing any lingering physical or emotional impacts from treatment.
- Open Communication - Regular check-ins with your line manager can be invaluable during this transition. These conversations provide an opportunity to review your progress, discuss any concerns, and adjust your workload or responsibilities as needed. You can also use these meetings to set realistic goals for resuming your regular duties.
- Temporary Adjustments or Lighter Duties - If your role involves physically demanding or high-stress tasks, you may benefit from lighter duties for a temporary period. This adjustment can provide the necessary support as you recover and regain full capacity.
- Flexibility and Self-Care - Recognise that recovery is a process, and it’s important to prioritise your health. Make use of any flexible working arrangements available to you, such as remote working or staggered hours, to better balance your recovery with work Responsibilities.
- Employee Support Resources - Remember to utilise available support resources offered by the University, such as the employee assistance programme, occupational health services, and health and wellbeing initiatives.
- Implantation and Antenatal Rights - If you have been undergoing fertility treatment and have had the last part of the process (embryo transfer) you have pregnancy rights equivalent to any other pregnant person. You do not have to tell your manager at this stage but you may find it helpful so they can offer support. If your fertility treatment is unsuccessful, you are still protected by law against pregnancy discrimination for 2 weeks after a negative pregnancy test. If this happens to you or your surrogate, you may also find the support in our pregnancy loss guidance helpful.