DSE and Pregnancy - adjusting your workstation

When you notify your Department that you are pregnant, your DSE Facilitator should assess your workstation to ensure you are sitting comfortably.

Over time as your tummy expands your sitting position should be monitored to ensure you are maintaining a good sitting posture. You will need to take more breaks to cope with increase fatigue.

See also: Pregnancy

	The body shape changes as time progresses, the centre of gravity shifts putting extra strain on back, extra pressure on thighs, legs and tummy under bump. Backache is common as the tummy enlarges forcing the mother-to-be to sit further back from the desk causing problems with reaching and stretching.
	Leaning forward puts additional strain on back and pressure on thighs and tummy under the bump.
	You should re-adjust the chair as your size increases. The seat slide should be in the forward position to support the back of the legs and tilted forwards about 5 degrees to relieve pressure on thighs. The back should be tilted slightly back to relieve pressure under bump. This could place more pressure on the buttocks which should be relieved by regular breaks for exercise. Make sure you maintain back support.
	Move to the curve part of the desk which will allow you to get closer to the desk. This position maintains correct arm and wrist positioning without the need to stretch or lean forward.