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Pregnancy is a transformative period marked by physical changes, emotional fluctuations, and the delicate interplay of work-life dynamics. In this blog post, we’ll explore the mental stress associated with pregnancy, how to balance work and body changes, and practical strategies for maintaining your well-being.
The journey of pregnancy begins with conception, followed by a cascade of hormonal changes that prepare the maternal body for gestation. Throughout this period, the fetus undergoes rapid development, from a single cell to a complex organism. Understanding the intricacies of pregnancy is crucial for promoting maternal and fetal well-being.
Morning Sickness
Morning sickness refers to the nauseous feeling commonly experienced by pregnant individuals, typically around the 6th week of pregnancy. It can occur at any time of day, and for most women, it tends to subside after the 12th week of pregnancy. More than 50% of pregnant women go through morning sickness, which is characterized by nausea and sometimes vomiting. Many doctors consider morning sickness a positive sign because it indicates that the placenta is developing well. Most cases of morning sickness disappear between weeks 14 and 16 (after the first trimester). However, approximately 15% to 20% of individuals continue to have morning sickness into the second trimester, and in about 5%, it persists until delivery1–3.
There are several causes of morning sickness:
Anxiety
Pregnancy is a time of immense change, both physically and emotionally. It’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions during this transformative period. Pregnancy hormones is the major reason which can impact mood and anxiety levels. Concerns about the baby’s health, delivery experience, and financial burden are common.
Maintaining confidence during pregnancy is essential for overall well-being. To boost the confidence during pregnancy, there are some tips : 1) Invest in comfortable and stylish maternity wear. Feeling good in your clothes can positively impact your self-image. 2) Educate yourself about labor and delivery. Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety and empower you to make informed decisions. 3) Share your experiences with other pregnant individuals. Join online forums or attend prenatal classes to build a supportive network.
Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. It affects approximately 7% of pregnant women and is associated with various maternal and neonatal complications. Women with gestational diabetes have an increased risk of needing a caesarean section, babies of mothers with gestational diabetes are more likely to be born large for their gestational age6.
If you’re planning to become pregnant, having a heathy weight will help to prevent gestational diabetes. Starting pregnancy overweight increases the risk of insulin resistance and gestational diabetes. Engage in physical activity before conception. Regular exercise helps regulate blood sugar levels. Eat well-balanced meals, focusing on whole foods, lean proteins, and fresh fruits and vegetables. It is important to check your blood sugar early, gestational diabetes typically develops around 24 weeks of pregnancy. Early glucose testing is crucial for timely intervention.
You can adjust your diet to lower blood sugar: low-fat, high-fiber diet - focus on foods that are low in sugars and high in fiber, which helps regulate blood glucose levels. Avoid processed and baked foods and limit spicy and sugary foods. Additionally, don’t forget to ask your doctor about appropriate exercise routines during pregnancy.
Balancing work and pregnancy can be challenging. To help you stay healthy and productive on jobs, communication with your boss and colleges is super important, you can 1) Talk to your employer about your pregnancy. Discuss any necessary accommodations or adjustments. 2) Avoid tasks that could jeopardize your pregnancy, such as heavy lifting or exposure to harmful chemicals.
And also, you listen to your body and avoid pushing beyond your limits. If a work task causes discomfort or pain, address it promptly. Rest, nutrition, and stress management are essential during pregnancy. Please don’t feel guilty, taking care of your health and the baby’s well-being should be your top priority.
Remember that seeking support from your family and workplace can make a significant difference during this transformative time. Prioritize self-care, manage expectations, and embrace the journey!
References
1 Morning Sickness. American Pregnancy Association 2020. https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-health-wellness/morning-sickness-during-pregnancy/ (accessed April 19, 2024).
2 Morning Sickness: When It Starts, Peaks, and Ends. Verywell Health n.d. https://www.verywellhealth.com/morning-sickness-7551812 (accessed April 19, 2024).
3 When Does Morning Sickness Peak: Understanding Pregnancy Nausea. Healthline 2018. https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/morning-sickness-peak (accessed April 19, 2024).
4 New Study Reveals Cause of Morning Sickness n.d. https://www.webmd.com/baby/news/20231214/new-study-reveals-cause-morning-sickness (accessed April 19, 2024).
5 Morning Sickness: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention n.d. https://www.healthline.com/health/morning-sickness (accessed April 19, 2024).
6 Gestational diabetes mellitus and adverse pregnancy outcomes: systematic review and meta-analysis | The BMJ n.d. https://www.bmj.com/content/377/bmj-2021-067946 (accessed April 19, 2024).
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