Unless your job involves heavy physical work or occupational hazards that may affect your baby, there’s no reason why you can’t work while you are pregnant. Some jobs bring you into contact with things that may harm an unborn baby.
These are some examples, but it’s not a full list of risks. Infections Working in health care, child care or with animals, for instance, can increase the risk of infections that may affect the baby.
Chemicals Health care, dental care, veterinary care, manufacturing and pest control are just some areas that may involve risk.
Radiation Working around x-rays or radioactive material is not harmful if normal occupation, health and safety measures are taken. Radiation from electrical appliances is not harmful.
Other risks ,Jobs that involve heavy lifting or standing for long periods can pose risks.
If your job involves standing for long periods of time, make sure you take the chance to sit down during breaks (if possible, put
your feet up on another chair). Standing for long periods may increase your chance of getting varicose veins in pregnancy.
If you sit at a desk or computer most of the day, take a few minutes every hour to get up and walk around. Care for your back by:
• being aware of your posture – sit and stand tall
• using a chair that gives you good back support.
Avoid heavy lifting or climbing ladders and try to bend over carefully – especially in late pregnancy when body changes can make these things difficult.
To make sure your work is safe in pregnancy, ask your midwife, doctor, occupational health and safety officer, union representative or employer.
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