In the preceding article, we discussed the nature of working at the job while one is pregnant and the effect of work on the growth of the baby inside the mother’s womb. We now know that performing at the workplace for pregnant women out there can be challenging yet possible for some as they can manage to accomplish their tasks very well while being strong and healthy at the same time.
So what are their secrets? Today, we will learn more about some useful tips on how you can work safely and comfortably during your pregnancy.
How to Work Safely and Comfortably During Your Pregnancy
Yes, you can work while you’re pregnant. So, what’s next? To maintain your good health and pregnancy while being productive to your work, we gathered some useful tips to help you understand and apply the things on how to alleviate your discomforts and avoid harmful work task which can lead to several complications:
- Fight morning sickness – You need to eat small and healthy snacks throughout the day such as foods with ginger ale, gingersnaps, lemon drops and ginger tea to keep your queasiness at bay.
- Overcome fatigue – You need to eat foods rich in iron and protein such as red meat, poultry, seafood, leafy green vegetables and many more. Take some frequent breaks and don’t overwork yourself. Drink lots of water and stay hydrated at all times. You can take some brisk walking during your lunchtime or breaktime. Remember, sleep early and aim for 8 hours of sleep everyday.
- Sitting – Use an adjustable chair with good lower back support to help you work at ease for long hours. If you don’t have an adjustable chair, just place a small pillow or cushion to your back.
- Bending and Lifting – Properly bend at your knees as you keep the load close to your body and lifting your legs, not your body. Avoid twisting your body.
- Keeping your stress under control – Be organized on your daily to-do lists and prioritize the most important tasks. Consider having some people to help you with your job. Tell someone you trust in your workplace about your worries and frustrations. Try practicing some relaxation and calming techniques.
Keep in mind and consider the following factors or precautions to avoid having complications.
- Exposing yourself to harmful substances such as lead, mercury, PCBs, formaldehyde, phthalates, flame retardants, etc.
- Prolonged standing may slow the baby’s growth, compromising the blood flow to the baby.
- Prolonged sitting may increase the risk of blood clots.
- Heavy lifting, climbing or carrying objects can lead to an increased risk of premature labor and low birth weight.
- Excessive and loud noise can cause stress to the baby and may damage your baby’s hearing.
- Heavy vibrations from large machines or while you’re driving off-road vehicles can increase the premature birth.
- Extreme temperatures during summer or overheating in a hot sauna can cause you dehydration, increase chances of low birth weight and birth defects, infections and even miscarriages.
SUMMARY
To sum it all up, doing the aforementioned tips and highly considering the warnings and precautions are important for you to be safe and healthy while you’re pregnant. You don’t need to be a couch potato or just sleep all day long in your pregnancy, except if your doctor advises you to do it because of certain circumstances.
So, you can enjoy and delight on the whole process of motherhood starting from your pregnancy and be balanced as always while making yourself productive, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment while finishing your work projects.
