The majority of women now work outside the home. For the most part, there is no reason why you cannot continue to work during your pregnancy. There are several things you should consider about your job & your workplace that may impact on your pregnancy.

Certain types of work can increase the risk of low birth weight.




This could include:

• Standing for long periods
  
  
• Hard physical work: lifting, pushing, pulling, stretching, climbing
  
  
• More than 40 hours of work per week
  
  
• Stressful work environment
  
  
• Exposure to toxic substances such as lead, PCB's, solvents or toxic waste
  
  
• Exposure to infectious materials

What can I do to decrease risks to my baby and myself?

• Take responsibility to find out about the work environment
  
  
• Check for exposure to any of the items above
  
  
• Confirm safety by talking to your employer, your health & safety committee, your occupational health nurse and your health care provider
  
  
• Always wash your hands before eating
  
  
• Continue to practice healthy lifestyle behaviours: eat well, exercise, do not smoke, drink alcohol or take drugs
  
  
• Modify work habits if necessary
  
  
• Take regular rest breaks
  
  
• Discuss work reassignment with your employer if needed

(Adapted from Best Start Resource Centre)