It is more common than ever for pregnant women to work while they are expecting. Sometimes, the reason is due to their career-related goals; it’s difficult to leave your job months earlier than necessary if you plan to return to it following childbirth. Other times, the thought of staying home may seem boring. In many cases, the motivating factor is money. Many moms-to-be work as long as possible to make up for the income they’ll sacrifice after their maternity leave ends.

Even though working while pregnant is common, many expecting women who have never gone through the experience understandably have concerns. They have questions. In this article, we’ll present the most common, and provide practical suggestions that should allay your fears.

“How Long Can I Continue Working?”

Long ago, it was customary for moms-to-be to stop working a few weeks before their due dates. This supposedly helped ensure their childbirths were safe. Today, pregnant women often continue working up until their due dates. There are rarely issues as long as they are working in an environment that is safe.

If you would like to work until your due date, ask your doctor for approval. She will let you know if doing so is a bad idea, given the nature of your pregnancy. That said, unless you have a good reason for staying at your job, consider leaving a week before your due date arrives. This will give you an opportunity to sleep and enjoy your last week of pregnancy before your baby is born.

“Can A Physically-Demanding Job Be Harmful?”

Many women work in jobs that require them to lift heavy objects, or rush from one location to another. Both can potentially harm unborn babies. Moms-to-be who regularly lift heavy items, especially near their due dates, are more susceptible to experiencing premature labor. Studies have also shown such activity leads to high blood pressure.

Women who rush from one place to another risk falling, and thus injuring themselves and their babies. As you advance through your third trimester, your coordination and balance will decline. Rushing increases the likelihood of a fall.

“What Should I Do To Tame Nausea At The Office?”

Unfortunately, most pregnant women experience some degree of nausea during their pregnancies. There’s a good chance you’ll will, too. The challenge is minimizing its effect while you’re at the office.

It’s helpful to keep toothpaste, a toothbrush, and mouthwash in your desk for emergencies. If nausea strikes, you’ll be able to recover quickly. Also, consider keeping a few towels nearby.

“What Can I Do To Improve My Comfort At Work?”

Staying comfortable while you’re working will become increasingly difficult as your due date approaches. First, make sure you wear shoes that provide plenty of room for your feet. Many pregnant women experience swelling in their feet; if you do, tight shoes will make you miserable.

Second, take time to stand up, stretch, and walk around. Doing so will cause the muscles in your legs to squeeze your veins, and push blood to your heart. This improves your circulation. On the other hand, if your job requires you to stand for long periods, take frequent breaks to sit down.

Third, drink plenty of water. Keeping your body properly hydrated will make you feel less tired and more comfortable. On a side note, avoid waiting to use the restroom. Increased hydration means more frequent bathroom trips. Plan for them.

Fourth, eat small snacks throughout the day while you’re sitting at your desk. Not only will they provide a small boost of energy, but they’ll help ensure your body receives the nutrition you and your baby need.

Working while you’re pregnant – even up until your due date – is fine as long as you’re taking the right steps. If, however, you begin to tire quickly or feel perpetually uncomfortable, it may be time to start your maternity leave.

Author Bio: Find quality Affordable Maternity Clothes at discount prices from eMommie.com. Visit http://www.emommie.com

Category: Parenting
Keywords: working while pregnant, safe pregnancy, blood pressure during pregnancy, pregnancy and work