Pregnant 9-to-5: What to Expect at Work When You’re Expecting

How can you maintain your professional appearance?

It's as important for you to maintain your professional appearance as it is for you to maintain your normal workflow. Whether it's accurate or not, your colleagues may expect you to be less focused on your job and/or your appearance because you're pregnant. Work is often about impressions. If you look more professional, you'll feel more professional and will probably be perceived as more professional. Continue to dress as professionally as possible, while remaining comfortable.

• Wear appropriate undergarments. Looser-fitting underwear and a more supportive bra may be just the trick.
• Keep your maternity wardrobe simple. Basic colors without trendy patterns are always more businesslike. You don't want to distract colleagues with your new outfits; you want them to see you as the same professional person you were before becoming pregnant.
• Wear comfortable, lower-heeled shoes. If you have "happy feet" you'll be a happier person.
• Don't wear restrictive clothing. If you must wear pantyhose, choose maternity-support pantyhose, which allow more freedom of movement and better circulation.

It is definitely possible to work while you're pregnant and be more relaxed, comfortable, and look great! The more stress-free you remain throughout your pregnancy, the healthier you and your baby will be.