Preparing for Pregnancy at Work
Before Pregnancy
Review your medical coverage (see "Insurance Coverage for Having a Baby").
Learn your company's maternity leave policy. Learn about the Family Medical Leave Act.
As soon as you know you are pregnant
Talk to doctors about what jobs you may need to avoid, such as heavy lifting or working in areas with fumes or radiation.
Find a place at work where you can lie down. During the pregnancy, there are times when you may need to take a few minutes to lie down.
After 12 weeks of pregnancy
Talk to your boss, update your emergency information, and make sure that co-workers know the number of your physician.
Develop a plan for when you will miss days for medical appointments. Make sure that your work is covered and your co-workers and boss know the plan.
3-5 months
Look into child care options at your company and the father's company.
Start discussing the length of time you will take for maternity leave with the father. Find out how much time he can take.
Inform your boss how much time you are planning to take off for maternity leave.
Source: National Women's Health Resource Center, Inc. (1996). National
Women's Health Report, 18.
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