Pregnancy is no less than a full-time job with lots of pain, stress, and precautions. Sure, pregnancy is one of the most beautiful and memorable phases in a woman’s life. But, things get quite challenging when you have a part-time/full-time job with a big baby bump. The question is how should women deal with pregnancy stress and their hectic job schedule simultaneously?

If you think you should quit your job to manage pregnancy symptoms, you must reconsider your decision. Is that what you want? Pregnancy is sure a challenging period. There are times when you’ll feel like lying on your bad all day long.

With so much already going on in your life, work is probably the last thing on your mind. If you want to continue your work without stressing yourself out, you have come to the right place! Here we’ve come up with a detailed guide for pregnant working women. Let’s get started.

Say No To Stress

First things first, pregnant women should try to avoid stress as much as possible. Not only does it affect your overall health, but it can be bad for your baby’s health. Here are a few tips for reducing stress while handling both pregnancy and work.

  • Work from Home: No office or workplace can offer your home comfort. Moreover, traveling isn’t a great option during pregnancy (especially traveling on public transports). Ask your employer if you can work from home.
  • Take Breaks:  You should take at least an hour’s break for lunch. Eat conveniently and get a quick and relaxing nap. Always bring some healthy snacks and dry fruits to work. Food craving can hit anytime during the pregnancy phase. It’s a good idea to have all your favorite snacks and deserts handy.
  • Change Positions: Whether you are working from home or at the office, you must change positions frequently. Never sit or stand for hours.
  • Avoid Overtime: As much as you want to prioritize work, you can’t avoid your health. Overtime or late work will do nothing but make you sick and stressed. In fact, you should request the employer to decrease the work hours at least until the baby is born.

When Should You Take Maternal Leave?

The symptoms and complications of pregnancy are never the same in women. While some ladies enjoy the pregnancy phase with little to no complications, others are advised straight 9-month bed rest. So, the answer to ‘when you should quit work’ depends on your health and doctor’s advice.

According to experts, women should not work after 32 weeks of pregnancy. This is the phase when all your vital organs need to function harder to maintain your body and provide sufficient nutrients to the new life growing inside you. You can also encounter muscle or joint pain due to insufficient rest or lack of nutrition. Even if you decide to continue work, take ample rest.

Make sure that a pregnant woman has lots of rights. Seek any legal advice should you face any discrimination at work.