Working too hard during pregnancy increases the risk of having a large baby

Women who work too much during pregnancy are more likely to give birth to a large baby, putting them at risk of being overweight as teenagers, according to a new study. Fetal macrosomia, which refers to babies weighing more than 4 pounds at birth, is also associated with a higher risk of breast cancer for the mother.

Lift heavy loads

Specifically, the researchers found that women who do strenuous work were 17% more likely to have a baby with fetal macrosomia, mostly due to lack of sleep. Lifting heavy loads, standing for a long time or repeatedly bending over are considered strenuous tasks.

“Our results also highlight a poorly studied link between gestational diabetes, which is a known risk factor for fetal macrosomia, and strenuous physical activity at work during pregnancy.”adds research director Muzhe Yang.

68% of women work during pregnancy

In the United States, the percentage of women working during pregnancy rose from 44% in 1967 to 68% in 2018. “Mothers-to-be work even later in their pregnancy, which makes it particularly important to understand how arduous tasks affect pregnancy outcome.” continues the scientist.

In France, the duration of maternity leave includes antenatal and postnatal leave (i.e. 4 months in total) and can be adapted to your family situation, the course of pregnancy and the birth conditions of your baby.