Resilience Through Every Chapter
Building Careers
Women in construction break barriers every day—leading teams, managing complex projects, and doing the heavy lifting, both literally and figuratively. But when it comes to supporting women’s health through key life stages like pregnancy, postpartum recovery, perimenopause, and menopause, the resources and conversations often fall short. Empowering women and educating employers, this article shares vital strategies for thriving across every chapter of life. Pregnancy, Postpartum, and the Path Back to Work
TIPS
Pregnancy, Postpartum, and the Path Back to Work
Pregnancy and the transition to motherhood bring real physical and emotional challenges—especially in construction, where demanding work, tight schedules, and limited accommodations can make it harder to cope.
What to Watch For:
- During pregnancy: fatigue, nausea, physical strain, and stress from pushing through without support.
- After birth: signs of postpartum depression like persistent sadness, irritability, or disinterest in work or your baby.
What You Can Do:
- Talk to your doctor early—both pregnancy and postpartum struggles are common, and support is available.
- Request adjustments—HR or supervisors may help with modified duties, schedule flexibility, or time off.
- Build your support system—connect with coworkers, mentors, or other tradeswomen who understand what you’re facing.
- Know you’re not alone—your health and well-being matter, on and off the job site.
Managing Maternity Leave and Your Return with Confidence
Navigating maternity leave can feel like walking a tightrope—especially in a hands-on, project-driven environment.
Planning Your Return:
- Ease back in with lighter tasks if possible.
- Communicate early with your crew or supervisor about any accommodations.
- Consider physical recovery— job readiness can differ for women based on physical recovery requirements.
Perimenopause: The Overlooked Transition
In your 30s or 40s, you may start to experience changes in your cycle, mood, and energy—but it’s not “just stress.”
Common Symptoms:
- Hot flashes, irregular periods, mood swings, brain fog, joint pain, and fatigue.
Worksite Challenges:
- Heat sensitivity and PPE discomfort
- Mood or focus issues in high-risk environments.
What Helps:
- Talk to a healthcare provider about hormone testing or treatment.
- Stay hydrated and use cooling PPE accessories.
- Prioritize sleep and nutrition when off the clock.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
Resilience and dedication define women who build our industry, as they navigate both professional and personal challenges along the way. It is essential that workplaces recognize and address the unique health needs women experience throughout their careers—from pregnancy and postpartum to perimenopause and beyond. A deeper understanding of these phases can be found in this FIT4MOM article titled, “Navigating the Stages of Womanhood: A Guide to your Health and Well-Being at Every Stage”. By fostering a culture of awareness, accommodation, and support, employers can empower women to perform at their best while maintaining their well-being. Investing in this commitment not only strengthens individual employees but also enhances the entire workforce, driving progress and excellence in every project. Together, we can build a future where every woman’s health and career thrive in unison.