How do you manage work stress during pregnancy?

Overview

Stress during pregnancy is quite common, especially for working women in Australia who often juggle work alongside pregnancy. The combination of higher living expenses, long travel times, and demanding job roles can all contribute to mounting stress.

Balancing work commitments with physical changes, medical check-ups, and maternity leave planning can sometimes feel overwhelming. Managing stress is essential, as high levels of stress can impact both your wellbeing and your pregnancy.

Is it normal to feel work stress during pregnancy?

Yes, absolutely. Many women experience this, and it’s completely normal. Your body and mind are adjusting to pregnancy, and balancing work at the same time can feel overwhelming.

Why does it happen?

• Your body undergoes several physical changes during pregnancy, including hormonal shifts, tiredness, nausea or morning sickness, and sometimes pelvic or joint discomfort such as pelvic girdle pain (PGP), also known as symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD).
• Emotionally, you may notice increased sensitivity, anxiety, or worries about your baby’s health, your job, or the future.

Work Stress: Common Triggers

• Heavy workloads or tight deadlines, especially when you need to rest or take regular breaks.
• Pregnancy symptoms such as morning sickness, nausea, fatigue, or general physical discomfort.
• Workplace strain from long shifts, physically demanding tasks, or limited flexibility.
• Concerns around job security, maternity leave options, or career progression.

When Stress Becomes Serious

If stress becomes constant and starts to affect how you feel every day, you may notice ongoing exhaustion, fear, or a general sense of being unwell.

Amira, an expert psychotherapist, explains: “Persistent or overwhelming stress is not something you need to simply ‘push through’. It can be a sign that additional support, workplace adjustments, or professional care may be helpful.”

Causes

Pregnant women in Australia may experience work-related stress for a variety of reasons, including the nature of their job, physical changes, and the level of support available in their workplace.

• Extended working hours or working in a high-pressure role.
• Physically demanding tasks such as heavy lifting, prolonged standing, or repetitive movements.
• Difficult commutes, including long travel times, crowded public transport, or heavy traffic.
• Poor workplace support, such as limited flexibility, unsupportive management, or insufficient break times.
• Balancing family responsibilities alongside work demands.
• Pregnancy symptoms affecting productivity, including morning sickness, fatigue, back or joint pain, or difficulty concentrating.
• Concerns about maternity leave, job security, or discrimination at work.

How Work Stress Affects Pregnancy

Ongoing work-related stress during pregnancy can affect both your physical and mental wellbeing and, in some cases, may also influence the pregnancy itself.

You may experience:

• Tiredness and burnout, leaving you feeling drained even after rest.
• Mood swings or irritability, as hormonal changes combined with stress increase emotional sensitivity.
• Reduced concentration, making focus and decision-making more difficult.
• Sleep problems, with stress and pregnancy-related discomfort disrupting rest.
• Potential effects on blood pressure or mental health, as long-term stress can increase the risk of anxiety or depression during pregnancy¹.

If stress is chronic, excessive, or accompanied by physical symptoms such as high blood pressure, dizziness, disturbed sleep, or significant mood changes, it’s important to consult a GP or midwife for support and guidance.

Managing Work Stress

1. Adjust your workload and hours

   Making changes to your workload can significantly reduce stress during pregnancy and help you maintain your health and energy levels.

• Discuss flexible working hours or adjusting your start and finish times.
• If feasible, request remote or hybrid work arrangements.
• Prioritise essential tasks and avoid overexerting yourself on lower-priority work.
• Delegate or hand over tasks wherever possible.

2. Know your workplace rights in Australia

   Australian workplace laws provide specific protections and entitlements for pregnant employees to support their health and wellbeing at work.

3. Support your mental wellbeing

   Looking after your emotional health is just as important as managing physical symptoms during pregnancy.

• Practice mindfulness or deep breathing exercises.
• Take short mental breaks, such as a brief walk or closing your eyes for a few minutes.
• Seek help from a mental health professional if needed. The Pregnancy, Birth and Baby service offers mental health support during pregnancy².
• Create clear boundaries between work and home by avoiding work emails during rest time.

4. Take care of your physical health

   Supporting your physical wellbeing can help reduce stress and improve overall pregnancy comfort.

• Stay well hydrated throughout the day.
• Eat regular, balanced meals.
• Engage in gentle exercise such as walking, stretching, or prenatal yoga if approved by your doctor.
• Maintain good sleep hygiene by sticking to a consistent bedtime routine.

5. Communicate with your manager or HR

   Open communication can help ensure you receive the workplace support you are entitled to.

• Share your limitations or challenges if you feel comfortable doing so.
• Request reasonable workplace adjustments, such as more frequent breaks or lighter duties.
• Discuss maternity leave plans early to allow time for a smooth transition.

6. Plan your day better

   Organising your day realistically can reduce pressure and help you conserve energy.

• Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
• Use planners or checklists to organise your workload.
• Avoid overtime where possible.
• Set realistic daily expectations and listen to your body’s need for rest.

7. Create a support system

   Having emotional and practical support can make a significant difference when managing work stress.

• Lean on your partner, family, or friends for emotional support or practical help.
• Talk openly with trusted work colleagues, as sharing concerns can ease stress.
• Join antenatal classes or community support groups for expecting mothers.
• Use online communities or pregnancy resources to share experiences and advice.

When is work stress too much?

You should consider seeking help if you notice any of the following:

• Persistent anxiety or feelings of being overwhelmed.
• Trouble sleeping, even when feeling extremely tired.
• Ongoing low mood or emotional distress.
• Panic attacks or feeling unable to cope.
• Physical symptoms such as headaches, high blood pressure, or dizziness.

When to See a GP

You should consult a GP or midwife if:

• Stress is affecting your ability to function at work or home.
• Physical symptoms worsen or become persistent.
• You experience mental health concerns such as anxiety or depression.
• You need a medical certificate to support workplace adjustments, lighter duties, or time off.

How Hola Health Can Help

Managing work stress during pregnancy can be challenging, but Hola Health makes support easily accessible through telehealth. Our online doctors can help you manage stress and work demands with confidence.

We offer:

• Stress and mental health telehealth consultations.
• Pregnancy-safe care plans tailored to your needs.
• Medical certificates for reduced workloads or time off.
• Blood tests and symptom reviews as your pregnancy progresses.
• Referrals to mental health specialists.

Conclusion

Balancing work and pregnancy isn’t always easy, but with awareness, planning, and the right support, many women manage it successfully. Understanding stress early, knowing your workplace rights, and communicating openly with your employer can make the journey smoother.

Always prioritise your physical and mental health, and seek professional help whenever you need it.

FAQs

Is stress harmful to my baby?

Answer by Amira, expert therapist: “Moderate stress is common and often manageable. Prolonged or severe stress, particularly when combined with anxiety or depression, may be associated with increased risks such as preterm birth or low birth weight, although this relationship is complex and influenced by many factors.”

Can I reduce work hours during pregnancy?

Answer by Amira, Australian therapist: Yes, you can request flexible working hours or a reduced workload. Employers must consider reasonable adjustments for pregnant employees.

Should I stop working if stress is too high?

Not necessarily. Many women continue working safely during pregnancy with appropriate adjustments. However, if stress significantly affects your physical or mental health, a healthcare professional may recommend reduced hours or taking leave.

Can a GP provide a medical certificate for pregnancy-related stress?

Yes. A GP or midwife can issue a medical certificate if you are temporarily unfit to work or require workplace adjustments for health reasons.

What workplace changes are considered reasonable?

Common reasonable adjustments include flexible start and finish times, working from home where possible, lighter duties, avoiding heavy lifting or prolonged standing, safe job transfers, or temporary reduced hours.