Many women work during pregnancy without any complications. Being able to work safely, in some cases, until the day of delivery depends on the type of work performed and the mother's medical condition.
However, the workplace does pose certain risks. Knowing what these risks are and minimising them will help increase the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy. Be sure the discuss the
following job risks with your GP or midwife:
if you work with chemicals, exposure to metals such as mercury and lead can lead to birth defects, miscarriage, and other problems
exposure to solvents such as household cleaning agents and pesticides can lead to fetal deformity and other problems.
exposure to pharmaceutical agents, such as chemotherapy may increase the rate of miscarriage, low birthweight, and malformations.
if you work in a medical environment, exposure to infections on the job, such as hepatitis, rubella, and other diseases can cause multiple problems during pregnancy.
Exposure to physical agents such as radiation and radioactive waste can lead to abnormal fetal development, miscarriage, and other problems.
Physical job demands, such as prolonged standing or walking, heavy lifting, working varying shifts, and job stress can adversely affect a pregnancy.
vigorous exercise in hot, humid weather, as pregnant women are less efficient at exchanging heat
Taking proper precautions to avoid these risks on the job can help keep you and your baby healthy throughout the pregnancy.
Take a break every few hours
Drink plenty of fluids while on the job
Minimize heavy lifting and bending
Take a longer meal break every four hours
|
Weight gain during pregnancy adds strain to the back. Pregnant women should keep lifting to an absolute minimum, but if lifting is required, proper lifting techniques can help reduce the strain and prevent injury. When lifting, a pregnant woman should keep in mind the following recommendations:
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart
Tuck in the bottom
Bend at the knees
Lift with the arms and legs, not the back
Limit the amount and weight of the items lifted (make sure the box is not heavy)
If you need further advice consult with your GP or midwife.
|