It’s hard to believe that just sixty or so years ago, conventional wisdom held that women should rest during the bulk of pregnancy and generally not participate in the work force. Today, here in Orlando and around our nation, the majority of pregnant women continue to work, most up until the time of delivery. At South Lake OB Gyn, we encourage our patients to talk with us about their job situation.
We especially want to address any questions or concerns patients may have about their specific work environment and /or different work activities. This latter point is important, even in this modern age. Pregnant women still need to be aware of potential hazards in the work place.
When you come in for an appointment, please feel free to talk to our doctors and nurses about the type of work you perform, including the amount of standing or lifting you do each day. Here are some additional questions they may ask as they assess your individual situation and risk:
- How many hours do you work each day and week?
- How long is your commute to and from work?
- Does your job involve any travel?
- How physically strenuous is your job?
- Are you exposed to any harmful substances, chemicals, fumes, or radiation?
This information, when considered alongside your pregnancy history or any complications in your current pregnancy, will help our doctors and nurses to make appropriate suggestions regarding your work schedule or environment. If you have very specific concerns, please bring them up at your next visit with us or check with OSHA, the Web site for the government agency that protects all workers, including pregnant women, by setting and enforcing workplace safety and health standards.