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A common concern that plagues many to-be mothers is whether they should continue working during pregnancy? After all nine months is a long time to go without work and needless to say, no employer will grant an employee nine months of paid maternity leave. For many women, not working during pregnancy is not an option as they need to keep earning; for others, they simply want to work when pregnant because they cannot bear the thought of sitting at home, doing nothing for nine months. However, just because everyone is doing it, should you do it too?

Stop Working During Pregnancy?

Many experts insist women should stop working when pregnant but is this really necessary? The truth is, this is completely dependent on you and your doctor or health care provider. If you are perfectly healthy and your baby is progressing smoothly, then there is no reason why you should not be working during pregnancy.

As a mother in the United States, no employer can deny you of your right to work. In fact many women continue to work right until their due date.

If you are in a safe job and you and your baby have no health complications, it is safe for you to work. However, obviously you must be extra careful when working during pregnancy and it is best you do not carry out certain tasks such as lifting heavy weights etc.

Working When Pregnant

It is not essential for you to stop working during pregnancy and if you choose to work during pregnancy, you must be very cautious and careful. In addition, some of these tips might come in handy.

• Make sure you get enough rest. Lack of sleep and rest combined with long hours of work will cause unnecessary stress.
• Remember to take enough breaks to ensure you can recharge and keep up your energy levels.
• Eat right and eat nutritious food as you will need all the energy possible for work and after work.
• While working during pregnancy is important to keep earning the money, it may not be as essential to keep up some of your other commitments. Do not tire yourself out and cut back on some other standing commitments.

Stop Working During Pregnancy – What NOT To Do

If you have made up your mind to work during pregnancy, it is important that you realize there are certain things you should not be doing. If your job involves any of these tasks, you should not be doing them. Tasks that are an absolute no-no if you are working during pregnancy are:

• Heavy lifting
• Exposure to harmful substances
• Standing for long hours
• Pushing

You must also ensure that you work in a stress free environment and that you do not overwork yourself. While working 60 hours of a week may have been the norm for you, as a pregnant mother to be working during pregnancy, it is best if you stick to a maximum of 38 – 40 hours of work so you and the baby can get adequate rest.

There is nothing wrong with working during pregnancy, however it is a decision you will have to make based on your own individual case and keeping your health considerations in mind.

References:

1. Working during pregnancy – Mayo Clinic