Health Topics for Pregnancy and Childbirth

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Department of Pediatrics

UI Family Care Center

Iowa Registry for Congenital and Inherited Disorders

Pregnancy and work

If you are pregnant, you may wonder how long you should continue working. Many women can safely work until a few days before the birth of their baby. How long you continue working depends on your job or if you have any increased risk of medical problems during pregnancy. Your healthcare provider considers your risk and job type when advising you on working while you are pregnant.

The following should be considered when deciding about working during pregnancy:

• a job that requires standing for long periods of time
• lifting heavy objects, climbing ladders or stairs, or bending below knee level
• working where there is second-hand smoke
• exposure to radiation, hazardous chemicals, gas or fumes that can be inhaled
• excessive heat
• job stress and
• your commute to work

Here are some things you can do to take care of yourself and your baby:

• Change positions often. If you are sitting, keep your feet up. Get up every 2 hours for a 15-minute stretch-break. If you are standing, take rest breaks and put your feet up or lie down during lunch or coffee breaks.
• Eat frequently. Choose high-energy foods like yogurt with raisins, or fruit, or cheese and crackers.
• Drink water: You need extra fluids in pregnancy. Carry a water bottle with you to get the 2 quarts of water you need each day. Avoid caffeinated coffee, tea, and sodas.
• Know the signs and symptoms of problems (such as pre-term labor) so that you know when you are doing too much.

If you have not discussed working during pregnancy with your provider before you are pregnant, discuss it early in the pregnancy. Your provider will advise what is best for you and your baby.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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