Double Shift
Women who work during pregnancy face many obstacles – including themselves
These days, women are not just eating for two during pregnancy – they’re working for two, as well.
“Some research suggests that working can be helpful,” says Dr. Tamara Kuittinen, an emergency medicine physician at the New York-Presbyterian Hospital and an expecting mother. “There can be some anxiety, and having something to do as opposed to sitting at home and waiting for egg to hatch, so to speak, can be really helpful.”
But even for today’s multidimensional woman, being pregnant while working can be difficult. Kuittinen says the main thing women underestimate is how tired they will feel, particularly in the first trimester. She advises eating balanced meals, taking prenatal vitamins and taking short naps if possible. Save your eating and important decisions for the time of day you feel best, and consider alerting your boss or coworkers if necessary to make the process more comfortable.
“When you tell your boss is a personal choice,” she says. “If you’re having problems with morning sickness and feel like your performance is affected, you should tell your boss early … to make the appropriate adjustments, whether it is you come in a little bit later or work from home.”
Despite any difficulties, working during pregnancy can be a positive experience that gives you extra time to enjoy your newest family member following the birth. Make sure to check your company’s maternity policies early on, and do your best to plan: Get your due date from your doctor, educate yourself about signs of labor, have a suitcase ready with key items needed for the hospital and make sure you have someone to drive you.
But a busy work schedule should never supersede regular doctor’s visits, increasing from monthly in the beginning of pregnancy, up to weekly during the final month. And remember: be honest.
“There are no signs or symptoms that you shouldn’t discuss during your pregnancy. This will help us catch any potential problems that can be prevented or treated in order to keep you and your baby safe and healthy,” says Dr. Laurie Zephyrin, New York, an OB/GYN physician .
Many women can work up until their delivery, says Kuittinen, the process just takes a little thought and consideration.
“By anticipating and planning for some of these challenges, working mothers-to-be can enjoy these nine months both on the job and off,” she says.
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