Maintaining healthy work-life balance during pregnancy

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for everyone but it becomes even more crucial during pregnancy where as an expectant mother, taking care of yourself and your growing baby is your top priority along with fulfilling your professional responsibilities. However, pregnancy brings about physical and emotional changes that require extra attention and care.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Aditi Trivedi, Consultant Obstetric and Gynaecologist at Surya Hospitals in Chembur, shared, “It's important to listen to your body's signals and give yourself the rest you need. By incorporating regular breaks into your workday, you can reduce fatigue and prevent burnout. One must always consult the gynaecologist if your work involves long travel, long hours of standing because in certain rare situations strict bed rest may be required during pregnancy.”

She suggested, “Staying hydrated is also vital during pregnancy as it helps support the development of the placenta and amniotic fluid. Make sure to keep a water bottle nearby at all times and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Additionally, limiting screen time can have numerous benefits for both you and your baby. Prolonged exposure to screens can lead to eye strain, disrupted sleep patterns, and increased stress levels. Finding a balance between work commitments and self-care during pregnancy may require open communication with your employer or colleagues. It's important to advocate for your needs by discussing any necessary adjustments or accommodations that will help ensure a healthy work-life balance.”

Dr Aditi Trivedi insisted, “Remember, prioritising rest, hydration and maintaining a good posture while sitting for long hours at work with frequent breaks are essential components of maintaining overall well-being during pregnancy. By taking proactive steps towards achieving this balance, you can enjoy a healthier pregnancy journey while still not letting your professional commitment get affected.”

Dr Rujul Jhaveri, Consultant Gynaecologist at NH-SRCC Children's Hospital, Mumbai, suggested, “If there are no medical or psychological side effects, as long as the job is not dangerous or cognitively demanding, it is feasible to continue working throughout pregnancy but there are some rules that must be followed. It's important to prioritise work, take quick breaks frequently, consume enough water, manage stress, treat motion sickness, get adequate sleep, and keep up your fitness regimen. Daily tasks like sleeping, sitting, and standing can start to feel unpleasant as the pregnancy goes on.”

The health expert cautioned, “To avoid swelling, it's critical to maintain a comfortable sitting position, utilize a supportive chair, and keep the feet at the same level. One should alternate feet on a footrest and take frequent breaks when standing for extended amounts of time. Furthermore, it is important to use the right lifting techniques, which include bending at the knees and preventing body twisting. A pregnant person can maintain productivity in their professional life while prioritising their health by adhering to these rules.”