How Can You Cope With The Stress Of Working Night Shifts During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy needs care! You can sign up to work for the first few months of your pregnancy, as you don’t want to be confined to one room, all day, all day. You may also want to catch up with your friends from the office and talk about their experiences. Or you could just choose to work, because you love to work. But that doesn’t take away from the fact that you need to be careful with your health!

According to a study published by “Obstetrics & Gynecology”, Reuters Health, the majority of pregnant women who opt for a night shift at work, generally fall into the danger zone of having a preterm labor. The day shift does not present such dangers. So what do you do when you have to work a night shift and you can’t transfer for a day shift, even if you ask for it? Here are some helpful tips to help you overcome this problem and stay free from health hazards.

• If your job requires you to sit for long hours at night, make sure you have a comfortable posture. Do not sit in one position for a long time, as that will cause cramps and aches. Also make sure not to strain your back or that your stomach region is not overly stressed while sitting. Take a cushion with you and keep it on the back of the seat, which will add comfort to your sitting position. Also be sure to stretch your legs within 30 minutes. If possible, take a few walks between work.

• Health and nutrition are essential during pregnancy! When you work at night, your body uses more energy. Therefore, it is always beneficial to bring fresh fruits to the office. So pack walnuts, almonds, your choicest fruits, glucose crackers, and juices in a box. Eat snacks when you are hungry. This will help you keep your energy level high. And chances are, if you finish your job quickly, you’ll also get a chance to come back sooner.

• Avoid wearing tight clothing at all costs. Your body needs to feel free and relaxed while you work. Stick to loose, comfortable clothing that helps you move easily and breathe well, too. Although you may not need it, please bring an extra pair of clothing for safety.

• Forget about the need to perform better during your pregnancy! Once you have the baby and go back to work, you can put all your creative and managerial skills to work and prove yourself. Do what is necessary when you are on the night shift during pregnancy. Also keep your seniors informed about it, so they don’t overload you with overwork. Also include a request that you could leave early or do part time if a health problem suddenly arises.

• When you get home, don’t skip a 7 hour sleep. This is when your body will strain through all the wear and tear that occurs during night shift work. Therefore, do not compromise the dream. Set an alarm and make sure nothing stands between your path and the dream.

• Often times, night shifts at the office mean convenience to eating. So be part of the fun, but stay away from consuming non-vegetarian media that your co-workers bring with you. This will result in indigestion. Get into a healthy eating habit at home and work instead. Eat raisins, almonds, green tea, lots of fresh vegetables, berries, and other healthy and healthy foods in the evening.

• Have your doctor’s number handy so you can dial when needed.

So if you have to attend a night shift, here are some of the tips that will keep you healthy during your pregnancy.