Returning to work after a birth following a birth injury can be extremely daunting for many mums. In this article, we’re sharing nine tips for returning to work after a birth injury….
For a mother injured during birth, returning to normal life, including returning to work, can be daunting and, in many cases, extremely challenging. Coping with the physical, emotional, and psychological aftermath of such an event requires strength and perseverance. However, with the right guidance and support, it is possible to navigate this transitional period and successfully reintegrate into the workforce.
Whether you are facing physical limitations or emotional difficulties, below we have put together nine tips to help you peacefully transition back to work after a birth injury.
The Challenges Facing Mothers Returning to Work After a Birth Injury
When an injury occurs to the mother during the birthing process it can be devastating both physically and mentally, Moreover, in this section we’re looking at some of the types of injury that can occur during the birth of a child.
- Vaginal tears - this type of injury is extremely common and will usually require stitches and aftercare.
- Ruptured uterus - As with vaginal tears, this type of injury will require medical care and aftercare.
- Postpartum haemorrhage - About 1 in 100 to 5 in 100 women have experience extremely heavy bleeding during and following birth and this requires immediate medical care to prevent extensive blood loss.
- Postpartum depression - A significant number of women suffer depression following the birth of their child and in extreme cases this can be debilitating and require extensive therapy and medication.
- PTSD - Following a particularly traumatic birth, some women may suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder which requires specialist medical care.
9 Tips for Returning to Work After a Birth Injury
Once you’ve made the decision to return to work, there are some tips and tricks which can help to make the transition easier.
1: Plan Ahead
Before returning to the workplace, have a think about your average working day and then make a list of all of the things which may present a challenge following your injury. You can then begin to formulate a plan as to how to get around these challenges.
2: Speak to a Member of Staff
Before returning to work, request a meeting with your manager and supervisor so that you can inform them of your injury. This will give them the opportunity to make suggestions as to how your transition can be made easier.
3: Take Things Slowly
Where possible, speak to your boss about the possibility of a staggered return to work for example, just two or three days to begin with. This can make the entire process a lot less daunting and help you to reacclimatise.
4: Know Your Rights
When going back to work, your employer has an obligation to make reasonable changes in order to allow you to effectively complete your duties without causing yourself harm or discomfort. Make sure that you know all of your rights before your return and make sure that the necessary changes are carried out.
5: Request Compensation
If your birth injury was caused by medical malpractice, you may be entitled to financial compensation. If this is the case, it's important to seek compensation as this might be able to help you in buying the equipment or services needed to make your working life easier.
6: Flexible Working Hours
Following an injury, you many find your previous working routine is not practical or ideal. Your employer is obliged to allow you, within reason, to make changes to this routine for example, working flexible hours or working from home, in order to make it possible for you to complete your duties.
7: Support Network
It is, of course, up to you as to whether or not you make your colleagues aware of your injury however, if you have a good relationship with your workmates, it can be helpful to do so. This can ensure that upon your return, you have plenty of support around you.
8: Test and Assess
Before your official return, it can be helpful to try a test day if this is approved by your boss. This can allow you to try out your journey and your working hours and then make adjustments where necessary while liaising with your boss.
9: Self-Care
While it's natural to want to get back to work and do the best job that you can, it's essential to practice self-care. Your health should always come first and so looking after yourself is vital.
Moving Forward Safely
Recovering from a birth injury takes time and patience and, while returning to work can be therapeutic, it can also be exhausting. Always make sure that you follow your doctor’s advice and ensure that all possible accommodations are made to allow you to work without further risking your health.
Please be advised that this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for advice from a trained medical or legal professional. Be sure to consult a medical professional or if you’re seeking medical advice or consult a medical negligence lawyer if you’re seeking advice on compensation. We are not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information on this site.
0 Comments