For the modern woman of this century, the idea is to have it all.
It then comes as no surprise that more and more women are choosing to work till their last trimester to ensure their careers are not slowed down a day sooner than is necessary.
Because pregnancies are highly unpredictable, the dream to work through it is at times, challenging.
To increase your chances of seeing this plan through, it’s wise to think about the possible obstructions and the small details you can take care of beforehand that can allow you to function optimally at work.
Which are some of these? Here are some pointers.
1. Know Your Rights and Limitations
An employer cannot fire, deny you a promotion or a job purely based on your being pregnant.
However, there is no legal requirement for an employer to make things easier for expectant employees.
Similarly, you cannot be made to take leave early, so long as you can accomplish work-related tasks.
In addition to your legal rights, strive to learn as much as possible about what to expect during this time.
2. Curb Pregnancy Symptoms
About 90% of pregnant women experience some degree of morning sickness, from mild and barely noticeable to the more severe form known as hyperemesis gravidarum.
Talk to your doctor about what you could do about nausea and vomiting and take some precautions like sitting near an exit in meetings just in case you need to excuse yourself.
Also, look up some natural remedies of easing morning sickness and find a few that work well for you.
When you feel better, you are better placed to focus on work and get more done.
3. Fight Fatigue
Understandably, pregnancy, and fatigue go hand in hand.
Most women report feeling tired during the first and last trimesters of pregnancy. In the first trimester, hormonal changes and a drop in sugar and blood pressure are often to blame.
In the third trimester, the baby you are carrying has already grown significantly, straining your back, thighs and legs. You also urinate more often, making it harder to sleep well through the night.
If you feel tired at work, you will be surprised at how rejuvenated you could feel after a short walk outside or even a power nap over your lunch break.
4. Write Things Down
Approximately 64% of pregnant women report getting a pregnancy brain where they forget words, pending tasks, or lack the ability to focus.
While this is common in pregnancy, your employer and clients might not take it kindly when you double-book yourself, miss meetings or deadlines, or take twice the time to complete tasks.
Make a habit of writing down anything you need to do, the deadline, dates, timings, and so on.
Also, find out when you feel most alert and use this time to handle the more demanding tasks of the day that require the most attention.
To get more done, try tools such as the Pomodoro technique to remain focused and clear your workload.
5. Prepare Yourself for Both Good and Bad Days
Despite your best-laid plans, you are bound to have some days that seem to take a wrong turn all on their own.
This happens to all people, expectant or not, and is not something to beat yourself up about.
When you feel great, confident and bursting with energy, ensure you do as much as possible without overexerting yourself.
This extra effort should cover for days when you feel sluggish and are less productive.
Other Tips to Perform Optimally Throughout Pregnancy
Reduce Stress
During pregnancy, it is normal to experience some level of tension; however, allowing that stress to get out of control can have a detrimental effect on you and your unborn child. Make sure you give yourself time every day to relax; some good options include yoga, meditation, and breathing techniques.
Do not be afraid to ask for assistance from close friends and family members if you find that the responsibilities of childbearing are becoming too much for you to handle.
Establish a Basic Exercise Program
Working out during pregnancy is beneficial for the mother-to-be because it helps increase the amount of energy and strengthens core muscles, both of which will be useful during delivery. It is not a problem if you do not have access to a gym because you can perform a variety of straightforward exercises at home.
Some examples of these exercises include walking and stretching. Before beginning a new exercise routine while you are expecting, you should make sure to get your physician’s approval first.
Get Lots of Rest
When you’re expecting a child, getting enough sleep is even more essential so that your body can continue to function normally and so that you have the stamina you need to get through the day. If you have the option, try going to bed earlier or taking a nap; even just an additional hour or two of sleep can make a significant difference.
Get A Healthier Diet
Since the foods you consume directly impact the health of both you and your baby, making eating healthier foods a top priority is essential. Pick foods that are high in nutrients and contain fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. This will not only provide you with the nutrients that are essential for the healthy growth of your infant, but it will also keep your energy levels high throughout the day.
Surround Yourself with Uplifting People
When you are expecting a child, it is extremely important to populate your life with supportive, upbeat individuals. This will help decrease levels of stress and provide encouragement along the path toward becoming a mother.
Be sure to speak to friends who understand what you are going through and think about enrolling in pregnancy classes or groups so that you can be around other moms-to-be. This will help you feel less alone during this time.
Meditate
Research has shown that practicing meditation can substantially cut levels of stress. You should try to include it in as many of your regular activities as possible. It does not take long about ten minutes a day. It can assist in clearing your thoughts while assisting you in maintaining focus on what truly matters most and is present in every moment of this beautiful experience.
Work Toward a Degree Online
Having a baby is a fantastic turning point. Still, it can also be intimidating as you attempt to manage your responsibilities and get ready for the arrival of your little one. Although expecting a baby is an exciting milestone, it can also be overwhelming. Pursuing a degree online while you are expecting a child can be an excellent way to position yourself for success in both the here and now and in the future.
When you begin to investigate the available choices, you will quickly realize that It provides several advantages that make it a great option for women who require flexibility and convenience while expecting.
In addition, if you plan to remain a stay-at-home parent for an extended period after the delivery of your child, earning a degree can set you up for opportunities to work from home and even prepare you for when it is time to return to the workforce.
Creating Limits
When you are expecting a child, it is essential to establish boundaries not only for yourself but also with those around you who may not fully comprehend what you are going through at this time. These boundaries should be self-imposed.
This includes making sure that family members are aware that they should not put pressure on you to do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable and putting limits on the amount of time that others spend with the baby once they arrive.
Take Vitamins
The body’s nutritional reserves are put through a lot of stress during pregnancy. Take a multivitamin every day to give yourself a boost and fill in any nutritional deficiencies. To make matters even better, prenatal supplements have been specially developed to supply your body with the nutrients it requires during pregnancy.
You will be able to prevent any nutritional deficiencies during the early stages of your pregnancy if you begin taking prenatal vitamins now. You’ll also have the opportunity to test out a few different brands to see which ones perform best with your system.
Get a Physical Checkup
Getting checkups on an annual basis is the best way to identify potential health issues before they become more serious. They take on a particularly critical role during the time in your life when you are preparing for a pregnancy.
Your primary care physician will perform a physical evaluation on you and may also draw some blood to check your cholesterol levels and perform other diagnostic procedures. You are welcome to discuss any additional health problems that you might have during this appointment.
Vaccinations
You should take advantage of the opportunity presented by your annual physical exam to bring yourself up to date on any immunizations that may have become outdated. Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to ensure that both you and your infant continue to enjoy good health.
Be Educated
Taking a childbirth class can make you feel more prepared for delivery, regardless of whether or not this is going to be your first child. Not only will you have the opportunity to gain additional knowledge regarding childbirth and infant care, but you will also have the ability to ask specific questions and express concerns. You will also become more familiar with the facility as well as the personnel that works there.
All in All
In as much as you want to be seen as a competent professional, you are, pregnancy can also feel like a full-time job. Pace yourself, listen to your body, and know when to stop or slow down.
These tips will help you navigate this phase and safeguard both your career and baby.