Taking risks at work?!?

dinabutti

Its my first pregnancy and I'm constantly nauseous and vomit at least a few times a day. I'm nervous because my job requires me to present in public and I am to be on stage in front of over 300 ppl in just a few days... Any advice for preparing and hopefully avoiding a worst case scenario (of vomiting on stage)?!? I really don't want to bail on this opportunity...

somewheresublime86

Yikes! Have you identified any sickness triggers? For instance, letting my stomach get too empty is a trigger for me.

If you've found things that settle your tummy (saltines, ginger ale, etc) I'd follow that routine. And I'd also try to avoid things that may unsettle your stomach (spicy foods, intense smells). Good luck!

RobynB13

Eat and stay hydrated to keep it at bay the best you can, but avoid any food beyond crackers or something to nibble about an hour before, and dress lightly and in flats or similar comfortable shoes if you have to stand. If you can be seated, that's a bonus. Also, try chewing peppermint gum and tuck it in your cheek during the speech.

somewheresublime86

Also, fake it to make it :-) I had to give a presentation to some higher ups last week, and felt vomitous throughout. I even dry heaved once. The co-worker who was at the meeting with me and knows I'm pregnant told me afterward that she would never have known how icky I was feeling.

So put on something that makes you feel good, be as prepared as you can be, and just make the best of it!

70point3

I had to do an afternoon of interviews. Found that saltines and water helped. Unbuttoned my pants (do you have a belly band yet?) and unleashed the mind over matter. Only puked in my mouth (and back down) once.

Depending on your audience, can you prep a funny follow up joke in case you do let loose? Most people realize we can't be 100% healthy all the time.

Good luck!!

lindsayanne14

I had to teach an all day seminar once when I was sick with a stomach virus. When I began in the morning I casually mentioned I had been feeling under the weather and hoped they would forgive me if I needed to briefly excuse myself. I ended up being able to hold it together until break time, but I was glad I said something in the event I would have needed to make a fast exit.