Work and Pregnancy

Desk jobs

Most desk and computer jobs are safe during pregnancy. But because of fluid buildup during pregnancy, some women develop carpal tunnel syndrome. This can make keyboard work difficult. As your body and posture change, back, neck, and shoulder strain may also become an issue if you sit all day. If you are pregnant and work at a desk or on a computer, these tips may help:

• Take frequent breaks. Get up and walk around to improve blood flow and reduce swelling.

• Use a pillow or cushion for lower back support.

• Use correct hand and arm positions when using a computer. Use a wrist rest if you use a keyboard and mouse.

• Use a phone headset to ease neck and shoulder strain.

• Don’t cross your legs or feet.

Standing work

Jobs that require standing for long periods can be hard on the pregnant body, causing back and leg pain. This is especially true late in pregnancy. Standing for long periods can also reduce blood flow to the baby and may slow the baby’s growth. If you have to stand, try these tips:

• Prop one foot on a short stool or box to help ease back pain.

• Ask if you can sit on a tall stool rather than stand. 

• Take breaks often. Sit down with your feet up if possible.

• Wear good, comfortable, well-fitted and low-heeled shoes.

Heavy labor jobs

If you have a job that often expects you to do heavy lifting, pulling, pushing, or other physical labor, talk with your healthcare provider about if it's safe to continue. Pregnancy symptoms, such as dizziness and extreme tiredness, can make some physical jobs dangerous. As your center of gravity changes, your sense of balance may suffer, making you more likely to fall. 

Environmental risks

If you work with chemicals, radiation, heavy metals, gases, or biological agents (virus, bacteria, fungus, or parasites) you may need to take extra safety measures during pregnancy. Some hazardous agents get into the mother’s blood and can pass to the fetus. Others can affect the mother’s health or harm the fetus directly. Talk with your healthcare provider about any specific concerns you may have. Ask if you should wear protective clothing. Always follow all safety procedures.

If you work in a very hot or cold environment, or are exposed to loud noise, you may need to adjust your work tasks to avoid these extremes.

Work-related travel

If your job means you have to travel, try to schedule it during the middle of your pregnancy (between 14 and 28 weeks). This is the safest time for travel and a time when early pregnancy symptoms have hopefully faded, but you are not yet too big and uncomfortable. Air travel is not advised after 36 weeks of pregnancy. When traveling by air, consider these tips:

• Try to book an aisle seat so you can get up and walk around and have easier access to the bathroom.

• Wear your seatbelt below your belly, across the hipbones.

• Eat smaller meals.

• If you are traveling out of the country, make sure you are up-to-date on the necessary vaccines. Don't travel to areas where there is a risk for malaria or a Zika outbreak.

When traveling by car, limit driving time to no more than 5 or 6 hours. Stop often to stretch your legs. Always wear your seat belt.

Talk with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about working while you are pregnant.