Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for everyone, but it becomes even more important for pregnant women that cannot be overstated. It not only ensures a healthy pregnancy but also helps prevent the complications during childbirth and postpartum.
In an interview interaction with the OnlyMyHealth editorial team, Dr Dhivyambigai Rajendran, Obstetrician & Gynecologist, Apollo Cradle & Children's Hospital, Chennai explains the importance of work-life balance for pregnant women. Here is what he shared with us.
Importance Of Work-Life Balance For Pregnant Women
Pregnancy is a unique and challenging phase for women, and balancing the work and personal life can be challenging at times. It is essential to understand that pregnancy requires significant physical and emotional adjustments, and these adjustments often affect a woman's work life.
Therefore, it is crucial to prioritise self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance during pregnancy.
1. Nature of work
It is essential to consider the nature of work and the potential risks it may pose to pregnancy. Pregnant women who work in industries and are exposed to hazardous materials, chemicals, or radiation must take extra precautions to protect themselves and their unborn child from their hazardous effects. If possible, pregnant women should avoid working in these industries altogether. Alternatively, they should take adequate safety measures, such as wearing protective clothing and gear to protect themselves.
Also read: If You Are Obese, Your Kidneys Are At Higher Risk, Expert Explains
2. Manage workload
Pregnant women should learn to manage their workload and avoid taking on additional responsibilities that can cause stress. It is essential to understand that stress can have adverse effects on pregnancy, leading to complications, such as premature birth, low birth weight, and developmental delays. Therefore, it is crucial to learn how to delegate responsibilities and avoid overworking.
3. Follow a healthy lifestyle
Pregnant women should prioritise their health by adopting a healthy lifestyle. This involves maintaining a healthy weight, exercising as suggested by the doctor, and getting enough sleep. Exercise can help reduce stress, boost energy levels, and prepare the body for childbirth. Adequate rest is essential for a healthy pregnancy and prevents complications, such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.
4. Avoid comparison with others
Lastly, it is crucial to set realistic expectations and avoid comparing oneself with others. Every pregnancy is unique, and it is essential to listen to your body and take things at a comfortable pace. Avoiding the pressure to perform and prioritising self-care can go a long way in ensuring a healthy pregnancy.
Also read: If You Are Obese, Your Kidneys Are At Higher Risk, Expert Explains
Conclusion
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for pregnant women. It is essential to prioritise self-care and avoid taking on unnecessary stress. It is necessary to educate women about the importance of a healthy work-life balance during pregnancy and provide them with resources to help them achieve it. By doing so, we can ensure a healthy pregnancy followed by a healthy delivery and a healthy postpartum period.
