taking on a new job when about to start IVF

[user1483559398]

hi new poster on here. I have been unemployed for 3 months after suffering with MH meant I couldn't function in my job. Me and DH are due to start NHS IVF at some point within the next couple of months.

I cannot decide if it would be a good idea to look for a new job at this time. I am feeling a bit better MH wise but still suffer with anxiety, some days worse than others. My DH earns a decent salary and has been able to look after us both to this point, but I feel like our lives would be so much better if I was earning also (money to do up our ancient bathroom, money for holidays etc.) and there would be less pressure on DH to bring in all of the money.

Obviously if the IVF works and I didn't have a job I wouldn't get any maternity pay and wouldn't be able to work for some time, however I think I would be a bit disconnected from the job if I have all this IVF stuff going on in the background and know I may be leaving soon. Also is it fair to start job knowing I may get pregnant so soon?

Just to note my DH has absolutely been there for me during the MH and does not ever pressure me to get back into work (he says he is supportive of whatever I decide to do)

I'm just not sure what to do. Anyone that has been through IVF while employed, was it difficult?

[Blueroses99]

In your position I would try to get a new job. If you're lucky enough to be successful first time round, you won't mind leaving, and depending on the timing of starting the new job and IVF you may be entitled to paid mat leave, an extra bonus. You will however need some flexibility to attend all the appointments and scans, some of which are made at short notice, once you've started you'll find dates move around frequently.

For many people however the reality is that it takes multiple cycles of IVF to work. You haven't said how many funded NHS cycles that you have, I only had one and when that didn't work, we have to save up for private treatment. If you are both working, that might be easier to achieve. (I don't mean to be a doom monger, I truly hope it works first time but you have to prepare for the possibility that it might not).

On the other hand, your MH is incredibly important, especially being exposed to the trials and tribulations of an IVF cycle which make anyone an anxious wreck. So it might not be worth taking a job that would add any more stress or affect your MH further. If it's possible that you could find something suitable, that you can fit IVF around and keeps you occupied, I would go for it.

[Blondeshavemorefun]

Blue says it well

It can be difficult to do ivf when employed but is possible by having early apps for scans. Day off would be for ec then 3/5 days later for et

My friend has mh issues and she feels she is better when busy so maybe look for Part time job or voluntary work

Tho a job would mean you would get smp which is def helpful

Good luck