From the moment you find out you’re expecting a child, your life will change. You’ll stop drinking and smoking and will eat a healthier and more balanced diet. If you’re like most South African women, you’ll be working throughout your pregnancy, which means that your working life will change too. Nine months is a short time to experience such a dramatic physical change, and you’ll be expected to continue working as usual throughout it. As expert gynaecologist in durban obstetricians, Dr. L Augustine & Dr. N Parikh understand the unique challenges you might face in the workplace. Here’s what they advise you do to make your pregnancy as comfortable as possible.
1. Stay Hydrated
Excessive caffeine consumption isn’t recommended during pregnancy, and with many women experiencing morning sickness, you might not feel like it anyway. We recommend swapping out your usual tea and coffee for ginger tea. This soothing drink will help settle your stomach and cut down on your nausea. If ginger tea isn’t your thing, you can also try ginger ale or even suck on ginger candies.
2. Stay Elevated
Leg and foot swelling during pregnancy is real, and it can be very uncomfortable. If you’re desk-bound, a small footstool will keep your feet elevated as you work, relieving some of the pressure. If you must be on your feet, ditch the heels and choose shoes that will give you the support you need. If your swelling is severe, you might be a candidate for compression stockings. A benefit of wearing stockings and keeping your feet elevated is that it decreases the chance of spider and varicose veins developing.
3. Stay Energised
It’s common to have an afternoon pass by without eating in the average busy work environment. This isn’t ideal when you’re pregnant, and you’ll probably find that you feel drained much quicker than before. Make a concerted effort to eat regular meals to keep your energy levels up. Keep non-perishable, healthy snacks such as crackers, dried fruits and nuts in your desk so that you can keep eating, no matter how busy you are.
These tips should help make your working pregnancy a more comfortable one. However, it’s always a good idea to see an obstetrician – especially if you have any health concerns that need addressing. If you’re looking for a Obstetrician in Durban, or Chatsworth book an appointment with Dr. Augustine and Dr. Parikh today.