BEING PREGNANT AT WORK

Published on November 30, 2011

A pregnancy is the time to rejoice as a woman prepares to welcome her baby into the world – in fact it's probably the most exciting event of her life. Yet, a sense of foreboding overshadows the unbridled joy, i.e. for working women at least. Work-related issues like when to inform the employer, how colleagues/managers will react, maternity leave, job security and returning to work blues mar the happiness and excitement.

A majority of Indian workplaces are far from supportive of their pregnant employees. Many women face pregnancy discrimination and even termination despite having erstwhile good work histories and favourable performance evaluations. Given the prevalent attitude of the corporate world, expecting women have to plan their moves diligently for this new phase of life.

If you are expecting a baby, clearly decide whether you wish to continue working or not based on what's best for you and your baby – no point unnecessarily complaining, being dissatisfied or inefficient later. Remember its tough managing work and pregnancy and you may not be able to function at the same tempo as earlier.

Here's a checklist of what to keep in mind:

What's the risk? - Evaluate the inherent workplace risks and hazards – physical strain (standing, lifting loads, travelling), night shifts or exposure to harmful substances can jeopardise the health and safety of you and your baby. Generally, with a desk job you can continue working right till the due date, though some discomfort and exhaustion is to be expected.

Breaking the news - When you actually reveal your pregnant state is entirely your wish, but do ensure that you inform your boss directly and not let him hear it on the grapevine. State your case preferably armed with solutions to adjust your work before and after you leave.

Angle for reasonable support: Try to negotiate mutually beneficial and acceptable accommodations like temporarily reduced responsibilities, lesser working hours, flexitime, alternate working conditions, sometimes at the cost of forgoing perks. Establish that you will continue to add value, though your health is a bigger priority now. If needed, do not hesitate to assert your rights and insist on safe and proper working conditions.

Know your rights - The Maternity Benefits Act 1961 entitles pregnant employees to 12 weeks of paid maternity leave (at normal pay rate) - 6 weeks before the due date and 6 weeks after the child's birth. The law also states that from 10 weeks before the due date, expecting women will not have to do arduous work, stand for long hours or be asked to do any other work that may cause problems.

What does the company offer? - Review the organisation's maternity leave policy, employee handbook or ask HR about the actual provisions. In particular, check how much time off you are actually allowed, whether it is paid and the pay rate, health insurance coverage/medical allowances, terms for extending maternity leave (paid, unpaid or partly-paid), whether you can use leaves/vacations to prolong maternity leave and other additional resources for pregnant employees. Also confirm whether you can return to your same job at the same terms or one that is equivalent in pay and advancement possibilities. Find out about part-time/flexitime/telecommute options to help you transition back into the workforce. You have to notify in writing asking for maternity leave and benefits as well as your leave period.

Proper care of yourself: Your health always comes first. Ensure that you sit in the right posture in a comfortable chair with your feet up if possible. Stand up and move around every two hours; sit down if it's a standing job. Take short breaks frequently; eat at regular intervals, do stretching exercises etc. Do not hesitate to seek/accept help from co-workers! Stress is not good for the baby growing inside you. Look for ways to eliminate the pressures by refusing extra work, reducing responsibilities or delegating tasks. Else, control it with relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, meditation or even a short walk.

Maintain a professional image: Never use the pregnancy as an excuse to go lax. It is prudent not to complain or talk too much about your pregnancy either! Set your priorities and continue doing the work well with high levels of commitment and efficiency but without rushing around or getting anxious. Act responsibly - finish your projects, tie any loose ends and even train your replacement (if needed) before you leave.

Battling old attitudes: Consider yourself very lucky if you find a supportive and flexible environment. Most organisations are not very compassionate and pregnancy discrimination is still rampant. You may have to face rude comments, sniggers or even subtle prejudice where expecting employees are pressurised into giving up/not returning to work! The accommodations (if any) are often given grudgingly as if doling out charity.

All said and done, ensure that you properly balance your work, life and health at all times. If push comes to shove and the uneasiness, exhaustion, stress or discrimination is doing you in; prudence dictates quitting the job.

Payal Chanania