Pregnancy in burnout culture
FTM at 36, currently 13w3d, and really struggling with the mental side of early pregnancy while working a high-pressure job.
My company just announced full-time RTO, and my commute is LONG. Leadership openly talks about attrition/burnout, and I’ve felt a lot of pressure to maintain my pre-pregnancy pace and prove I can still perform at the same level.
A few days ago, I had a vasovagal episode on the train home and completely lost consciousness. Woke up in my own vomit. It was as humbling as it was embarrassing. Thankfully baby is okay, but it really scared me and forced me to realize I may not be able to push myself the way I used to.
I think stress, exhaustion, pregnancy changes, and lack of boundaries all caught up with me.
Would love to hear how you navigated the pressure, guilt, or fear of being seen differently at work during pregnancy? How did you manage anxiety to stay calm and healthy?
Posted May 12, 2026, 2:51 PM UTC