Toowoomba Obstetrics and Gynaecology celebrates and empowers women this Jean Hailes Women’s Health Week! Held from the 4th to the 8th of September, each day has a unique theme to address various aspects of health and well-being. We especially see the value in Thursday the 7th’s theme, Making it Work, which focuses on managing women’s health issues in the workplace. Pregnancy brings diverse physical and emotional symptoms, and empathetic guidance supports women during this transformative period, aiding well-being, job satisfaction, and life quality.
Managing Nausea and Vomiting at Work
70 to 85 per cent of pregnant women experience morning sickness, and while managing pregnancy symptoms like nausea and vomiting can be challenging, several strategies can help alleviate discomfort and maintain productivity:
- If possible, consider shifting work hours to times when you are less likely to experience morning sickness, typically more pronounced in the early hours.
- Identify and avoid foods, odours, or tastes that may trigger nausea.
- Eat bland foods, such as crackers, and drink ginger ale or ginger tea to help with nausea.
- Many women find that vitamin B-6, doxylamine, or diphenhydramine help reduce nausea symptoms. Consult with your healthcare provider for individualised advice.
- If nausea and vomiting are severe and impact daily activities, discuss the option of anti-nausea medications with your healthcare provider.
- When travelling to and from work, keep the car well-ventilated by rolling down windows and have vomit bags and ice water handy. Leave with extra time in case you need to take a break.
- Store vomit bags, cool rags, a toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, and mints at your workplace to cope with nausea effectively.
Reducing Workplace Fatigue
Implementing effective strategies can help manage pregnancy symptoms like low energy levels and reduce fatigue throughout the workday.
- Ensuring an adequate intake of iron and protein-rich foods supports energy production and overall health.
- Taking short, frequent breaks allows for rest and revitalisation, preventing excessive strain.
- Eating a healthy diet aids overall wellness.
- Minimising travel time or avoiding peak-time travel can reduce fatigue.
- Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids is essential to combat fatigue.
- Reducing non-work-related activities by shopping online or seeking assistance with housework can foster energy conservation.
- Engaging in low-impact, healthcare-team-approved fitness activities, such as walking or participating in prenatal classes, improves wellness.
- Prioritising an early bedtime and striving for 8 hours of quality sleep each night can significantly reduce fatigue and facilitate a more rested and productive workday.
- Accept and seek help from colleagues, family, and friends.
Creating a More Comfortable Workplace
Beat your pregnancy symptoms by increasing comfort at work through the following strategies and thoughtful measures:
- When sitting, use supportive furniture, such as adjustable chairs with cushions and backrests, to ensure proper posture and reduce strain.
- Maintain a comfortable temperature in the workplace.
- When standing, utilise footrests or footstools for additional support.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
- When lifting light objects, bend at the knees.
As menopause signifies the end of a woman’s reproductive years, it can also bring a sense of loss or grief. The transition can evoke complex emotions and a reassessment of one's identity, impacting one’s sex life and desire.
Managing Stress
Managing stress workplace during pregnancy is crucial for the well-being of the expectant mother and her baby. Implementing effective stress management techniques can help alleviate tension and promote a healthier work environment.
- To-do lists can help organise tasks and prioritise responsibilities, reducing overwhelming feelings.
- Open communication with co-workers about pregnancy-related concerns can foster a supportive atmosphere and lead to understanding and assistance when needed.
- Engaging in deep breathing exercises, stretching, yoga, or walking can help relax the mind and body, reducing stress levels and enhancing overall well-being.
When Should I Tell My Work That I’m Pregnant?
Legally, you are not required to tell your work that you are pregnant. However, for health and safety concerns, it’s generally a good idea to inform your boss(es) of your pregnancy. If you are looking to take parental leave, you should give your work ten weeks’ notice and confirm leave and return dates in writing four weeks pre-leave.
Workplace Safety
If your normal workplace responsibilities are unsafe during pregnancy, you are entitled to a safe alternative job with your usual hours and pay. Should there be no feasible alternative arrangements, you may be entitled to a ‘no safe job leave’. Such arrangements may require a certificate from your doctor confirming your pregnancy.
Consider risks and hazards at your workplace, including strenuous work, travel, posture, animals, and chemicals, and adjust your duties accordingly.
When Should I Stop Working?
Women generally find it best to stop working around 34 to 36 weeks of pregnancy; however, this decision varies from woman to woman. If you are taking extensive leave after childbirth, plan a handover of workplace responsibilities.
Professional Mental Health Services
It is important to be aware of your workplace rights during pregnancy. Legal guidelines protect pregnant women against workplace discrimination; you cannot be treated unfairly due to your pregnancy. Specifically, your pregnancy cannot lead to fewer hours, being overlooked for promotions, or being sacked.
You are entitled to normal sick leave for pregnancy-related sickness and can take time off for pregnancy appointments.
Depending on your contract, award, and time in your job, you may be entitled to varying forms of parental leave.
If you are not receiving equitable workplace conditions due to your pregnancy, contact the following government bodies:
- Australian Human Rights Commission
- Fair Work Ombudsman
Women’s Health Week empowers women to take charge of their health and prioritise self-care. At TOAG, we recognise the challenges pregnant women face in the workplace, and strive to provide effective guidance and support for easier transitions. For pregnancy care, please contact our passionate obstetrics team here. From conception to birth, our qualified, compassionate team provides empathetic care tailored to your unique journey.