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The decision to have a baby and finding out you are pregnant is an exciting time and one for celebration. It is also the time for change, planning and recognising that your lifestyle will start to be different – initially for the next 9 months but for many years after as well. Whilst this might sound a little like ‘raining on the party’ it can actually be beneficial to think ahead. Realising that change will happen can make acceptance and adjustment much easier, resulting in a less stressful time and a happier Mum and child to be.
One area of life that certainly will relate to the above is that of your job and employment. As your pregnancy progresses up until the point of maternity leave, you will need to realise that doing your normal role may not be fully possible. In this article we look at practical points and advice to get you through this time.
1) Telling all.
It is understandable that you may want to keep this to yourself for a while but when the time comes to reveal all, think about how you will do this. Telling everyone except your boss, or your boss being the last to know probably isn’t the best way to score points or get someone one your side.
2) Limitations.
Depending on what your job is this could have more of an implication to certain people, for example. if your job is of a physical nature you may need to speak with your employer to make some adjustments. As your pregnancy progresses you are likely to become more tired and suffer other ‘symptoms.’ Recognising your own limitations and how these will change is very important both for your own welfare and that of the baby. This is especially true as you grow in size and become more uncomfortable. Most employers will recognise this and should be able to accommodate as best they can. The earlier you mention this the more accommodating they can be!
3) Medical appointments.
As time goes by you will have classes and appointments to attend which is perfectly normal. Most often, these can fall in the middle of the day and therefore be problematic when you are working. As best as you can, try and arrange so they fall outside of your working hours. Sometimes this is not possible, but even then you can try and plan with limited disruption – for example having appointments at the end of the day will help..
4) Being relaxed at work.
It might sound like an oxymoron but it is especially important you do this while you are pregnant. Some of the things which you can consider here are:
* Ensuring you take regular breaks
* Having someone to talk to if things get difficult or tough
* Eating plenty – take your lunch break and don’t skip meals and always keep well hydrated.
* Wear clothes which are professional but try and keep as comfortable and cool as possible to avoid you feeling unwell. The same can also apply for shoes, you should stop wearing heels very early on in the pregnancy, as you may experience foot swelling.
5) After maternity.
Whilst thinking about returning to work might not be on top of your list of priorities, it is good to at least have some foresight in regards to this. Not only does this make things clear and transparent for both you and your boss, you are likely to part for your ‘break’ on good terms which further cements a good professional relationship for the future.
Follow these tips for at least some weight off of your mind!