Pregnancy Discrimination in the Workplace

Pregnant employees have specific legal protections beyond general sex discrimination law, including a newer federal right to reasonable workplace accommodations related to pregnancy.

Core Pregnancy Discrimination Protections

Federal law prohibits treating employees differently because of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, requiring employers to treat pregnancy the same as any other temporary medical condition for purposes of leave and benefits.

This means an employer that offers light duty or modified work to employees with other temporary conditions generally must offer the same option to pregnant employees with similar work restrictions.

The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act

This more recent federal law goes further, requiring covered employers to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions — even without comparing treatment to other employees — unless doing so causes undue hardship.

Accommodations can include more frequent breaks, temporary reassignment of certain physical tasks, modified schedules, or additional time off for recovery.

Common Violations to Watch For

Warning signs include being pushed out or demoted after announcing a pregnancy, being denied a routine accommodation that's granted to other employees with medical restrictions, or facing negative comments tied to pregnancy or plans to take leave.

Documentation of any accommodation requests, the employer's response, and any negative treatment following a pregnancy announcement is important if a claim later becomes necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be fired for being pregnant?

No — termination motivated by pregnancy is illegal discrimination under federal law.

Is my employer required to give me paid maternity leave?

Federal law doesn't require paid leave, though FMLA may provide unpaid, job-protected leave, and some states have their own paid family leave programs.

Pregnancy-related workplace rights have expanded significantly in recent years. An employment attorney can help you understand what protections and accommodations apply to your situation.