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How to tell your employer you’re expecting
Many mothers to be feel nervous about telling their bosses they’re pregnant. But remember that close to 60 percent of the women in America hold down jobs, and nearly 80 percent of that female work force will become pregnant during their careers.

If your work involves handling chemicals, lifting heavy objects, standing for many hours, or working with X rays, it’s best to tell your employer right away. Perhaps you can switch your responsibilities temporarily – a healthy first trimester is critical to your baby’s well being.

Many women prefer to wait until the second trimester, when their condition is beginning to be obvious, to tell their bosses. When you’re ready to make your announcement, schedule a meeting with your manager.

Present a plan of action for continuing to take care of your workload, or offer alternative solutions if there are any changes you’ll need to make. Also ask if there are flexible work policies that will make it easier to fit in your prenatal care appointments. Take it easy at work.

How to maintain your energy and stay healthy

To beat fatigue and discomfort during the workday, try these strategies:

• Put your feet up on a stool or a box when you’re sitting down. Put one foot up on a stool when you’re standing.
• Use a chair with additional back support.
• Rest your eyes frequently by looking away from your computer screen. Use an antiglare screen.
• When you lift things, bend at your knees rather than bending at the waist. Hold heavy objects close to your body, lifting them no higher than chest level.
• Pause when you’re tired. Your whole body is working harder now and you need more frequent breaks. Health care providers often recommend that pregnant women take a 15 – minute break every two hours. This helps relax your back muscles and improves circulation. It also gives your eyes a rest.

Working outside the Home
If you’re employed outside the home, you’ll need to decide how long you’ll work before your baby is born. This decision depends on several factors including the nature of your job, how you feel, your doctor’s recommendation, and the policies of your employer. If your doctor and employer agree and you are healthy, you can continue working until you’re ready to give birth.