Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful periods in a future parent’s life. However, it comes with massive physical and mental changes. Still, you don’t have to turn your life upside down if everything is OK. Instead, you can continue your everyday routines, like working, but with slight adjustments.
1. Safety First
Not all people work in an office using ”just” a computer. Some work in specific conditions being exposed to, for instance, chemicals, extreme temperatures, and excessive noise. If you are among them and expecting, it is of the utmost importance to make some changes so that your work does not present a risk to your or your baby’s health.
Discuss it with your employer to determine what precautions you must take to continue working while not jeopardizing your health. You might have the option to switch to another role, at least during pregnancy. Also, prior to initiating any conversation with your superior, consult with your healthcare provider to determine the non-negotiables as—at the end of the day—safety is a priority.
2. Be Physically Active
Physical activity can help you maintain the needed level of productivity at work while also helping you boost your mood and self-esteem.
Remember, every pregnancy is unique, so it’s critical to consult your doctor to determine what exercise program best fits your state and needs. For instance, yoga has proven to be a great option. But, again, seek professional advice before engaging in any potentially strenuous physical activity.
3. Rest as Much as Possible
That probably doesn’t mean you can take naps at work (although companies with different cultures allow for different things). But, while pregnant, you must be mindful of the changes your body is experiencing and provide it with highly-needed time to relax.
For instance, if your working hours include sitting in front of the computer, ensure to take frequent breaks, stand up, and walk around the office. You can also consider going outside to get fresh air and soak up the sun.
If, on the other hand, your job requires you to stand the whole day, have a chair nearby to sit down and rest whenever you need it, especially if you feel nauseated.
4. Eat Well
Nutrition affects your concentration and efficiency at work, and that is especially true during pregnancy. Choose homemade meals over junk food. That way, you will give your body what it needs to stay active and strong during working hours.
Meal prep during pregnancy does not differ much from what most nutritionists recommend to everyone to stay healthy. Ensure to consume food containing iron, calcium, and vitamins, including vegetables, whole grains, lean meat, and seafood. Also, make a stock of healthy snacks you can grab at any time.
5. Stay Hydrated
Always have a bottle of water nearby, especially during the early stage of your pregnancy when you may be experiencing symptoms like nausea or fatigue. If you are a coffee lover, consult with your doctor regarding caffeine consumption during pregnancy and whether you can enjoy other beverages, such as sugary drinks or tea.
6. Seek Assistance When Needed
Many women hesitate to talk about their pregnancy at work, which is just fine. It’s entirely up to the individual to decide what they want to share with their coworkers. However, building a strong support system in the workplace will make things easier.
Be open about the changes you’re going through and seek help whenever you need it. Although it’s not like talking to a close friend or a family member, knowing you can rely on a coworker while pregnant is such a stress and pressure reliever, enabling you to get the job done without exposing your health to risk.
7. Make Adequate Wardrobe Changes
Something many of us would probably overlook but is quite important during pregnancy – comfortable clothing. It is an important segment to cover, primarily if you work in specific conditions.
Some companies have specific dress codes for their employees. But these must be open to alternatives, as comfortable clothes and shoes at work during pregnancy are paramount to mitigating or eliminating any potential discomfort.
As you can see, the points raised above are fairly easy to grasp and implement. Rest, good nutrition and stress mitigation are something we should all incorporate into our lives. So, don’t put pressure on yourself. Instead, listen to your body and your doctor. Remember, a good employer will be part of your support system during pregnancy. If they’re not, well, that’s a topic that deserves a separate discussion.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
