An unanticipated event often brings change, and the news of an unexpected pregnancy may have also brought worries about how it will impact your job. Perhaps you’re concerned about how you will perform your normal duties while you’re pregnant, and this may be causing you some anxiety. As you begin to weigh all of your unexpected pregnancy options, you may want to think about how you can remain comfortable while you work. This in turn may help you make a pregnancy decision, as you may have a better idea about your overall health and how well you can cope with a temporary change to your routine.
The changes brought by an unexpected pregnancy may lead to changes in your standard routine, but Avenue Women’s Center is here to support you during this transition. We provide free, medical-grade pregnancy tests and information regarding your pregnancy. Understandably, you may have a lot of questions about your situation and your available options. That’s why we invite you to meet with one of our pregnancy consultants for a free appointment to receive accurate information about your choices of parenting, adoption, and abortion. Our compassionate staff is waiting and ready to listen to your concerns and offer you any necessary support. Schedule a free appointment with us today at one of our six locations in Darien, Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn/Lombard, Naperville, West Chicago, or Wood Dale, Illinois!
Working During a Pregnancy
Pregnancy can lead to your body going through some temporary changes, and your ability to work while pregnant usually depends on your health, the condition of your pregnancy, and what you do for a living. Some jobs may be safe to continue while pregnant, and generally it is possible for women to keep working for a while. While there may be challenges, there are also a few recommendations for alleviating potential discomforts while on the job, reducing some of your stress levels before you may have to take leave.
It should be noted that under the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, you cannot be punished by your workplace for pregnancy, childbirth, or anything else related to your condition. Your place of employment may be required to provide you with accommodations, and your employer may also be obligated to treat your pregnancy as a temporary disability. This means your boss usually must allow you time for sick leave, and you may also be entitled to disability benefits.
Remaining Safe on the Job
Desk Job:
This sort of work is usually safe to do while pregnant, as it doesn’t require a heavy amount of physical labor. Since fluid usually builds up during your pregnancy, you may want to be cautious of carpal tunnel syndrome. Your body and posture may begin to change during a pregnancy, and sitting all day may strain your back or neck. To combat these symptoms, try occasionally getting up and walking around to reduce swelling and improve blood flow. For lower back support, consider using a pillow or cushion, and if your job requires typing, you may want to use a wrist rest to make this task a little easier.
Standing Job:
Being on your feet for an extended period of time may cause some back or leg pains, and reduced blood flow. If possible, see if your job allows you to sit instead of stand, and if not, you may need to work out an accommodated break schedule with your employer. Sitting down with your feet up can alleviate potential discomforts, and it may be helpful to wear soft, low-heeled shoes.
Labor-Intensive Job:
Dizziness and fatigue are usually common pregnancy symptoms, which can make jobs involving a lot of heavy lifting or other strenuous activities potentially dangerous. Your sense of balance may be slightly altered during pregnancy, and this can put you at risk for falling. You may need to ask your healthcare provider to see if it’s safe for you to continue performing a labor-intensive job, as it may not be advisable for you to continue working at your normal pace.
For any job, there are also certain environmental risks you may want to consider. Working in a very hot or cold workplace is not always good for your health, and being around loud noises can be potentially harmful. Also, if your job involves working with chemicals, you may need to be careful, as this can affect your pregnancy’s condition. On top of wearing protective clothing, it may be necessary to change your work schedule to avoid putting yourself at risk.
Regardless of what pregnancy option you are considering, make sure to ask questions of your healthcare provider or pregnancy consultant when discussing your unexpected pregnancy. Understandably, it may seem too challenging to figure out a way to still work while pregnant. But by taking the time to have an experienced individual listen to your concerns, you may receive some helpful advice about your pregnancy options, as well as consultation about how to ensure you remain healthy.
Monitoring your unexpected pregnancy’s condition while on the job is important, and Avenue Women’s Center is here to ensure you have access to reliable information about your pregnancy. You may have questions about your options of parenting, adoption, and abortion, and that is why our expert pregnancy consultants are here to talk with you to aid in the creation of a pregnancy plan. Our centers can offer you nonjudgmental and compassionate support throughout your unexpected pregnancy. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation appointment!
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.