Pregnant and working - that's fine!
Many women find that their job is actually a welcome distraction from the everyday minor complaints of pregnancy. Nevertheless, a few things have to be considered, in order to protect the health of mother and child. We have examined four central aspects more closely.
Women in Germany are often over 30 years of age when they have their first child. One reason for the comparatively late start to motherhood can be having a successful career. Child or career? Nowadays, women often want both and put all their energy into work before deciding to have a baby. Once their pregnancy test is positive, they often continue working until delivery. But can you really do that? After all, numerous changes occur in the expectant mother’s body during pregnancy. Provided that you pay attention to a few things, it’s possible! You can read the details here.
Pregnant women should bear the following in mind
As soon as an employee has informed her employer about her pregnancy, the employer has to observe the provisions of the Maternity Protection Act and show special consideration. Pregnant women therefore have to be protected from toxic or radioactive materials, vibrations and excessive heat and noise. In addition, frequent bending, stretching, standing for longer than four hours a day and piecework or assembly-line work are prohibited.
Regularly carrying five-kilo loads or occasionally carrying ten-kilo loads must also be avoided. Furthermore, working hours of 8.5 hours a day or 90 hours over two weeks should not be exceeded. From the third month, work performed on any means of transport is also prohibited.
How to minimise stress
Stress during pregnancy can have numerous causes. Under certain circumstances, it can harm the child. But with a little thought and organisation you can reduce the stress. Your baby must come first – reducing overtime hours is a good way of enjoying your pregnancy. Perhaps your job allows you to work from the home office for one or more days? Or perhaps you can benefit from flexitime to avoid having to travel during the rush hour every day? Ask your superior about the various options.
The optimal daily routine
Organise your daily routine to make it as pleasant as possible. If you suffer from morning sickness, your boss will certainly be sympathetic. Ask if you can perhaps start later and then make up the time by working longer in the evening. Make use of the breaks during the day: Take some exercise or put your feet up for a bit.
This reduces the likelihood of swelling or varicose veins during pregnancy. Just remember: According to the Maternity Protection Act, pregnant women are not entitled to any more breaks than other employees. However, they may attend doctors’ appointments during working hours. They do not have to make up the time required for this. In order to avoid conflicts with your employer, however, you should only make use of this provision, if it isn’t possible to get an appointment outside working hours.
Workplace
Together with your employer, organise your workplace so that it is optimally adapted to your pregnancy. In order to avoid back pain, for example, a height-adjustable chair with a backrest and a footrest is a good investment. A wrist support can be a good idea, in order to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome.
Fill your desk drawer with healthy snacks, such as dried fruits, nuts and muesli bars. Place a large jug of water next to your PC screen to ensure that you drink enough. If you work somewhere that is very warm (e.g. in the kitchen), ask your boss about a possible change of workplace.
Your baby comes first
Pregnancy represents a changed situation for a woman, both physically and emotionally. You’re not under any pressure to perform! Of course, it’s not always easy to turn a blind eye to everything, particularly where your job is concerned. Nevertheless: try to take things slowly. Your highest priority is your health and that of your child. At the latest when your abdomen hardens, you should change down a gear. Stay relaxed during your routine working day and listen carefully to your body’s signals. Regular walks after work can help to recharge your batteries and invigorate you for your working day.
Wearing compression hosiery can also be very soothing and help to increase your vitality, particularly if your job involves long periods of standing or sitting. medi has developed special pregnancy compression tights. Their flexible abdominal section makes them particularly comfortable. They prevent the weight of your baby bump impairing the venous blood flow and causing congestion.