Quick q re lifting in pregnancy ...

[Firecracker]

have just found out that I'm pregnant again which is great! Anyway, am having to lift an elderly parent several times a day (needs help with toileting following a fall). Am I putting my little bean at risk? TIA

not your baby, but maybe yourself, the reason not to lift heavy loads, is because your body is now producing relaxin, a hormone that softens and relaxes your muscles and ligaments, therefor making you more suseptable to injury

hth

Thanks ... you've reassured me! I'm being as careful as I can but feel that I can't say no and at this stage don't want to spill the beans. Fingers crossed all will be okay.

Just be very careful how you lift and watch your posture congratulations by the way

Message withdrawn

You should be given a health and safety check at work once you've announced you're pregnant. Congtras btw

she said an elderly parent, not patient!

Thanks for the Congrats ... yes it's a parent not patient but given that DS2 has given DH and I a terrible tummy bug so that's got me off the hook with lifting.

The only time I stopped lifting was when I noticed fresh bleeding afterwards - then I didn't life that thing again (it was pretty heavy anyway) - so maybe watch for spotting. Otherwise I think they say its OK, tho' all the old wives have lots of other tales!

You need to tell your employers so that they can carry out a risk assessment ie. assess the risk to you / unborn child of all aspects of your job - including any lifting

link - click on a Guide for new & expectant mothers at work