Work during pregnancy
For most women experiencing a healthy pregnancy, it is sure to work until shortly before delivery.
Can you work while pregnant? How long can you work? The answer depends on your health, your baby's health and the type of job you have. Consult your doctor, nurse or midwife, he or she can help you plan when you stop working.
Is it safe for me to work during pregnancy?
For most women experiencing no complications during pregnancy, the type of jobs they hold is not usually a health risk for her or their baby. However, if your job is physically challenging, your doctor, nurse or midwife may recommend that you change during your pregnancy.
You may also be at risk if you work with certain chemicals, solvents, fumes or radiation. To find out more about this hazard in the workplace and house. Women planning a pregnancy should be vigilant and follow all safety guidelines. If you are already pregnant, your health care provider may advise you to avoid contact with some of these harmful agents in the workplace. Your employer may also have policies in place to protect pregnant women.
Work-related activities that require discussion with your health professional
If your job involves any of the following, talk to your doctor, nurse or midwife, who may recommend changes.
- Be in a reclined position or squatting more than ten times per hour
- Climb a ladder more than three times during a shift of eight hours
- Standing for more than four hours at a time
- Climb stairs more than three times per shift
- Work more than 40 hours per week
- Working per shift
- Lift more than 23 kg (50 lb) after the 20th week of pregnancy
- Lift more than 11 kg (24 lb) after the 24th week of pregnancy
- Be in a reclined position or squatting or climbing a ladder after the 28th week of pregnancy
- Lift heavy items after the 30th week of pregnancy
- Be standing for more than 30 minutes every hour after the 32nd week of pregnancy
- Working with chemicals, solvents, fumes or radiation
What is fifth disease? It is possible that some women working with young children face more risks of being exposed to this common virus that, in very rare cases, could be harmful to the fetus. However, it is usually not necessary for a woman to stop working because of this risk.