Though research shows there’s no direct brain change during pregnancy, a new study from the University of California-Irvine suggests that the surge of hormones moms-to-be experience really can cause what we call “pregnancy brain.” You know, when prenatal memory and focus get fuzzy. Work can fall victim to this condition, but you don’t want to add worry about your job to an already-overloaded mind. To maintain professionalism:

Set solid deadlines. Sticking to deadlines not only keeps your work on track, it also helps you stay focused. When you have to finish up a project ASAP, your mind works to fend off distractions as it maximizes immediate efforts.

Think work during work hours. Keep pregnancy chatter to a minimum at the office to avoid interruptions. Limit “I’m so excited” calls with your mom or best friend. And only surf for eco-friendly diapers or check on fetal developmental stats during your lunch break.

Be realistic. While pregnancy discrimination laws protect you from being fired because you’re pregnant, anyone can be dismissed for poor work performance. So stay on task and perform your job to the best of your abilities.

Source: Donna Ballman, an employment lawyer in Fort Lauderdale, FL