For MOST people, we don’t advertise when we are trying to start our families. Many keep this journey private, but it's vital to acknowledge the emotional and physical challenges that can impact work performance.
Here’s what I wish I had known to ask for sooner:
Flexible Leave: At many jobs, you can take what's called intermittent leave (IL), which allows for a few hours off each week. Previously working in education, I felt guilty leaving for any reason due to the demands of the job and the need to support the students. However, I should have prioritized my health without guilt, as IL offers this flexibility.
Personal Days: Starting on fertility medication like Clomid significantly affected my physical and emotional state, causing intense mood swings and forgetfulness. I kept busy to ignore these feelings, but I should have taken days off to manage this stress and the changes occurring. It’s crucial to allow yourself these breaks.
Community Support: For a long time, my husband and I dealt with our loss privately, supported quietly by friends and family. However, once we shared our story, we received an outpouring of support and similar stories from others. This revelation that we were not alone brought us immense comfort and happiness.
This journey has been intense, but opening up has strengthened and expanded our support network. I’ve found great value in being open, sharing my experiences, and encouraging others to advocate for their needs.