Staying healthy

Now you’re pregnant, it’s not just your health you have to take care of but your unborn baby’s, too.

It’s important to look after yourself and there are lots of ways you can adjust your lifestyle to boost your health while you’re still at work.

While pregnancy is not an illness, the coming months will bring many physical and emotional changes. This can have an impact on your working life as well as your home life and we have plenty of sound, evidence-based advice to keep you feeling as good as possible, while giving your new baby the healthiest start you can.

Your pregnancy diet

It’s important to eat a balanced diet during your pregnancy to ensure you have all the nutrients you and your baby need. With a bit of planning, it’s possible to incorporate healthy eating into your working life.

Alcohol in pregnancy

It's best to avoid drinking alcohol now that you’re pregnant as it can cause problems for your unborn baby. If you do choose to drink, the NHS guidance is to avoid it for the first three months completely and after that stick to one or two units once or twice a week. This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy lunchtimes or evenings out during your pregnancy, though!

Smoking in pregnancy

Most people know that smoking is bad for you. If you smoke when you’re pregnant, though, it can harm your growing baby, too. Take advantage of the ban on smoking in the workplace to quit and enjoy the benefits of a smoke-free pregnancy.

Your mental well-being

Pregnancy can be a time of emotional ups and downs and if you’re finding this a challenge, you’re not alone. It doesn’t help if you’re stressed at work, and if you’re struggling it’s important to seek help.

Exercise in pregnancy

It’s good for you and your unborn baby if you stay fit and active. You can incorporate exercise into your working day by taking a little time out during your commute, in your lunch break and at your desk.