There are times when being pregnant can feel like a full-time job. This makes it especially difficult when you already work a full-time job on top of that. Don’t sweat! Here is a list of 10 tips that can help ease the process of working while pregnant:
1. Share pregnancy with your boss first
When you decide to start leaking your pregnancy news in your workplace, you should always start with your boss first. You want her to hear it from you and NOT from the office grapevine. While you can leave official talk related to maternity leave until later, it’s important to reassure your boss that your productivity will not be affected. Once you’ve told your boss, feel free to share the exciting news with as many or as few people as you wish!
2. Stock up on snacks
In order to alleviate some of the unfortunate symptoms of pregnancy such as morning sickness, it’s helpful to munch on healthy snacks throughout the day. Not only will this help you cope with morning sickness, but it will also boost your energy levels. This will keep you away from the dangers of fatigue which is bound to affect productivity.
3. Schedule appointments wisely
Try to schedule your doctor’s appointments either before or after work, or during your lunch break if the clinic is close enough. Waiting is inevitable so take along some light busywork to alleviate some frustration. Always schedule appointments according to your work calendar. It’s important to completely avoid busy days such as important meetings or presentations. You never know when your doctor will need you to stay for additional tests or treatments and the last thing you want on your plate is the added stress of being late for an important meeting.
4. Dress comfortably
When working while pregnant, it’s only a matter of time until you’ll have to rely on comfy clothes and shoes to get you through a long day. Luckily, it’s super easy to find fashionable business clothing for pregnant women these days!
5. Stay off your feet
Staying off your feet (at least as much as possible) is something small that could play a vital role in getting you through work days. If possible, find a box or wastebasket to put your feet up on in order to reduce swelling in your feet and ankles. For more information on how to relieve swollen feet, check out another one of our blog posts: http://pregnancyadoptionoptions.com/how-to-relieve-swollen-pregnant-feet-ankles-2/
6. Get plenty of rest
Getting to bed a little earlier than your pre-pregnancy days can do wonders for your body! A full night’s rest can be harder than ever during pregnancy which is why it’s more important than ever to stay on a sleep schedule and take steps to solve any sleep problems. Check out this article outlining common sleep problems and solutions during pregnancy: https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/sleep-solutions/pregnancy-sleep-problems-solutions/
7. Stay organized
It’s not uncommon for a little forgetfulness to set in especially when working while pregnant. It helps to be extra organized in order to prepare for this. Make lists and and leave yourself plenty of reminders!
8. Don’t take on too much
During pregnancy is not the time to volunteer to take on extra tasks unless it is absolutely necessary for your job. In fact, allow yourself to take regular breaks at work. Trust us, you deserve it and it will give you the extra boost to get through the day.
9. Accept help
When coworkers offer to help you with something when you’re having a tough day with your pregnancy (these days unfortunately happen), accept their help and be appreciative. There will come a day when you can return the favor, but today is NOT that day!
10. Remember to breathe
Try to take time throughout the day to breathe and relax. If you can, listen to music and meditate during a short break. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a walk (preferably outside) and get some fresh air outside of your workplace. This will help substantially in terms of alleviating stress which is so important during pregnancy!
