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Work and Exercise During the Third Trimester

Whether or not to continue working during pregnancy is your decision. If you have concerns, talk with your pregnancy care team.

Work Tips

Here are some tips that can help work be more comfortable:

• Change positions often. If you sit for long periods of time, be sure to stand up and walk around frequently. If you stand a lot, try to sit down every now and then and put your feet up.
• When you are sitting for long periods, put your legs up on a stool or a box.
• If you have to stand for long periods of time, keep one foot on a low stool with your knee bent to take the pressure off your back.

If you plan to return to work after your baby's birth, here are some things to keep in mind as you look for childcare:

• Talk to other parents and find out who cares for their children.
• Ask caregivers for a list of references, and check them out.
• Ask to see the caregiver's state license.
• If you are planning to breastfeed, make sure the caregiver is comfortable supporting breastfeeding for you and your baby.
• Listen to your intuition. Be sure you feel good about the childcare provider.
• Have a backup plan in case your child can't go to daycare, or your caregiver is ill.

Exercise Tips

Just take it easy. Go a little slower when you run, swim, or walk. Wear shoes that give you good support.

From the "Birth Day News" series.