Juggling Work and Pregnancy
Working while pregnant may be a requirement for some expectant mothers. Questions may arise regarding pregnant working, which should be promptly answered to avoiding any unnecessary worrying.
Should I Keep My Job While Pregnant?
In most cases, expecting women who are experiencing a normal pregnant and work in a safe place can continue their jobs until the day they go into labor. In the first and third trimesters, it should be known that you will experience fatigue and possibly nausea (morning sickness), which means that you may not always function to the best of your ability. This is okay, as your body is going through massive changes while it nourishes a baby. Avoid overexerting yourself.
How Long Can I Continue Working While Pregnant?
Some women prefer to work until the day they have their baby. Others, however, may begin their maternity leave one to two weeks prior to the due date to get things ready for the baby. The latter is recommended, especially if you still need to finish the nursery or tie up any loose ends.
Should I Tell My Boss I am Pregnant?
It is advised that you inform your superior that you are pregnant. When you should do this is entirely up to you. Many women wait until the end of their first trimester, so that they are at a lower risk for a miscarriage, before letting any co-workers or their employer know of their baby. If you plan to continue your pregnant working, it would be helpful to let your boss know so that he can understand why your job performance may be reduced at certain times, or why you require more frequent breaks.
How Can I Deal with Morning Sickness While at Work?
Morning sickness is a common occurrence for pregnant women while in the first trimester. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce or eliminate the nausea that you may experience throughout the day. Snack frequently, and keep bland foods such as crackers and chips nearby at all times. Stay away from trigger smells that can promote your nausea. These may vary based on the woman, but can strong scents such as coffee and foods that are currently being cooked.
What Can I Do to Stay Comfortable at Work?
If you have a job that requires you to be on your feet, you should modify your break schedule to provide time to sit down a few minutes each hour. This will prevent your feet from swelling and becoming painful. If you have an office job, be sure to get up and walk around hourly to increase the flow of blood in your lower extremities. Wear loose clothing that will allow airflow, as many pregnant women notice a rise in their body temperature while carrying a child. Comfortable shoes should also be worn.