What should I do if I fear my job is adversely affecting my pregnancy?

Jobs where you are on your feet all day, like standing at a cash register or cutting hair, can slightly increase the likelihood of preterm birth and poor fetal growth, according to research. The jobs where people do the best are those where they can control your own activities, that is, they can sit down when tired or get up and walk around if they've been sitting too long.

If you're in a job that puts you at risk for abdominal trauma, like working as a police officer or with unruly children, you risk premature separation of the placenta. If that is the case, you'll want to find another situation, if possible.

Fortunately, the law is in your favor: According to the Pregnancy Disability Act, any employer that makes a change in the environment for an employee with a disability is required to also make a change for an employee whose doctor says the job could jeopardize the pregnancy.

For more information on your rights, check out The Pregnancy Discrimination Act.