Working Through A High-Risk Pregnancy: What If You Have No Choice, But To Keep Going And Going?
Working through a normal pregnancy can be difficult, but working through a high-risk pregnancy is physically and emotionally overwhelming. You're constantly worried about what your job may be doing to your baby, yet for many women, that's the harsh reality. There's no taking maternity or other leave, because they simply can't afford it or their jobs won't allow it. If you're in this boat, try to keep calm, so you can reach out for help with the right people and somehow act in the best interests of yourself and the child growing inside you.
Keep In Constant Contact With Your Obstetrician
Tell your OBGYN that you'll need to work, for as long as you can through your pregnancy. They may schedule a few extra appointments to check on how you and your baby are doing, but they need to know what you'll be doing, specifically, in order to assess your risk and best advise and treat you. If your obstetrician gives you an ultimatum, such as "Quit work, or else risk losing the baby", you're going to have to fight for an alternative to working.
Look For Assistance From A State Or Federal Agency
Benefits for pregnant women are somewhat precarious and your eligibility depends on many factors. For example, you can't collect unemployment, just because you can't work during your pregnancy; however, if you are laid off, you can apply. Most states don't help women on unpaid maternity leave, but it doesn't hurt to try. Start calling local agencies or book an appointment with someone from health and human services in your area.
Short-term disability is likely not a viable option for you, unless you've purchased an insurance policy which covers things like pregnancy, recovery and postpartum complications. That policy also probably has a stipulation attached stating that it doesn't cover a pre-existing pregnancy, so you can't go out and purchase one now. If you have solid credit, you might consider a loan to get you through. Contact any agency that might be able to offer assistance itself or to refer you to another than can.
Be As Cautious As Possible While Working
If all else fails and you have to work, exercise every precaution your obstetrician warns you about. Talk to your boss and co-workers, requesting cooperation and leniency, especially if you're not going to be able to tow the line at all times. Although it's illegal for an employer to terminate the job of a pregnant woman simply because they're pregnant, if there are other reasons, such as coming in late and leaving early, often, or simply not being able to meet the requirements of the job, you could be in jeopardy.
While you work, adhere to a general list of do's and don'ts for expectant moms:
- Don't allow yourself to be exposed to any harmful fumes or chemicals.
- Do not lift anything on your own that may cause strain, pain or discomfort.
- Don't stand for excessive amounts of time, nor should you sit endlessly, either.
- Avoid becoming stressed to the point where your body is negatively affected, especially if you have issues with high blood pressure.
- Do take time to eat when needed.
- Try to listen to your body, rather than the demands of your job or your demanding boss.
Maintain Your Own Health To The Highest Standards
High-risk pregnancies are complicated further by events like poor eating or skipping meals. Beyond taking your daily pregnancy vitamin, your dietary health should be maintained to the highest standards you can possibly manage.
Prepare meals at home you can freeze and take with you to work for quick re-heating, and be sure to include fruits and veggies in your lunch bag. Definitely avoid vending machine binging or any other source of junk food.
Don't Push Yourself Beyond A Certain Point
Especially if you already have other children to feed and care for, working through a high-risk or otherwise uncomfortable pregnancy is putting yourself and your fetus in danger. As stressful as the thought of losing your income may be, the alternative is much worse. With all you have to take care of, if no one is taking care of you, you're going to burn out sooner or later, perhaps pushing your pregnancy to a bed-rest only restriction.
Try to find a balance, work with your doctor, your employer and any agency that will help you, and call upon friends and family to assist, if you have that type of support. Contact a clinic, like Vita Center For Women LLC , for more help.
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