Telling your team...

Lets face it... If you are a serious professional in the Indian workplace, declaring your pregnancy is probably making you squeamish...

The level of squeamishniss probably increases with the following:

• recently joined the team
• almost no peer who has gone through parenthood
• in a startup or a highly competitive environment

Well, don't worry, you are definitely not alone and not the first to feel this way... :D

I would suggest that based on your circumstance and chemistry with the team, try to inform them as soon as possible and definitely no later than 6 months of pregnancy.

A lot of ladies go through hell in the first trimester , and if you have the confidence to inform your team early, the extra support can go a long way in making you comfortable.

But, if you are just not comfortable telling your team early, that's fine too, do manage your needs well so that you are not stressing about hiding your pregnancy during this delicate phase.

On a more serious note... as a guideline, if you are facing stress and need to make trade offs, do pause, take a step back, evaluate your priorities and make decisions suitable for your life in the long term. Whatever they maybe, stick to your moral compass and your responsibility to your life and the life of your unborn baby. You have got this!

In my experience, more often than not, you will find your organisation trying to support you during this magical time :) Of course, be ready for those occasional quizzical looks and people scampering out of your way in meeting rooms :P On a downside, be also prepared for a 'meets expectation' type of a rating... I know that sucks, but a lot of our corporate environment is still evolving... and handling pregnant, competent employees, is simply a new thing for many desi companies...

All the best dearie!!! You are on a life-changing and beautiful journey! All the power in the world to you! :)