I am officially 38 weeks pregnant this week and I am starting to feel it. On top of being in the last few weeks of pregnancy, I also started back to work this week. To say that it was exhausting would be an understatement. I am just one of those people who refuse to take up valuable sick days that I could use to spend with my newborn baby.
What does that mean? It means I will be at work until I pop! If it is anything like my first pregnancy I will be working until 41 weeks pregnant. I know there must be several other expectant mothers out there who feel the same way I do and are wondering how they can make it through those last few weeks.
Here are some tips that have been helpful for me:
Bring a stool to work
If you have a job that requires a lot of sitting, then you are going to need something to prop your feet up on, but in a professional manner. I brought one of Graham's wooden stools to work with me. It seems to help a little with the swelling in my feet. It also helps if I can change up the position of my feet throughout the day. If you do not have a stool, try using a box from work.
Use a balance ball
In order to do this, it will depend upon the kind of environment you work in. Since I am a school counselor, I do not think people would take me very seriously. I do know that this can be a great way to help prevent swelling and also keep your back in a more comfortable position. It also helps to open up your pelvis so that if you do have minor contractions at work, they can be more tolerable.
Bring a water bottle
I know that I seem to bring up water in almost every post lately, but it is so important! If you have water in a water bottle you are going to be more likely to drink more of it. I like to set a goal to at least finish an entire water bottle before it is time to head home for the day. I know that this is not nearly enough, but it is a goal I can meet. Water helps minimize early contractions and will also help with swelling. Not to mention, you are going to feel more energized if you are hydrated.
Know when to call it quits
Most importantly, even if you are trying to save every single sick day, know when to say enough is enough! Ultimately, you want to have a healthy baby and have enough energy to labor. Keep this in mind when you start to feel worn down.
Felicia Carter is the author of Go Graham Go, a parenting blog with advice, products and money saving tips. She has a three year old son and is expecting number two in September. Connect with Felicia on Twitter.