When to Tell Your Boss You're Pregnant

Finding out that you are pregnant can be very overwhelming. A new baby on the way means there are going to be a lot of changes in you and your family's life. Expectant mothers in the work force also have to face their employers with the news of the new arrival and that can be a nerve wracking ordeal. Some worry that they may lose their job or their hours are going to get cut or it's just not going to go over all that well. No matter what the scenario or where you live, there is one law that protects you no matter what. You can not get fired for being pregnant. Federal laws prohibit employers from doing so. All you have to worry about is spilling the news and letting your boss know what changes to expect.

 

Aside from having the piece of mind knowing that you aren't going to lose your job, it's a good idea to plan when the best time is to actually inform your boss. Some women chose to spill the beans the second they get confirmation and that's okay. However, during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, women are at the highest risk for miscarriage. Miscarriage is devastating enough so it's a good idea to think before speaking. Dealing with the loss of a pregnancy and having your entire office know about it bring it up during the day can set your emotions on an even higher roller coaster. So this is something that only you can really decide to share right away.

 

Generally it is best to wait until you have safely made it past that 12 week mark and you know that you are for the most part clear of the dreaded first-trimester danger. Depending on whether it is your first pregnancy or you're an old pro, you may be showing at this point and not be able to hide the fact that you are pregnant. Some women show much sooner than the 12 week mark letting the bump give it away or morning sickness has kept you in the bathroom more than at your desk. If your boss starts asking questions it's best to come clean but to keep it quiet around the office till you have made it to your second-trimester goal. Be sure to inform your boss of your wishes because they may turn out to be just as excited as you are.

 

When you are ready to tell your boss, arrange a meeting with them at their best convenience. Be confidant as you would for any situation at work. You should not feel ashamed about being pregnant nor should your boss make you feel that way. Plan out what information you think your boss will need from you such as if your doctor or midwife has given you any restrictions that could affect your work, your due date and a generalization of when your appointments are going to be. If you don't know what your company's maternity leave policy is ask your boss for the information on it.

 

Finally reassure your boss that you will keep them informed on the pregnancy and that you will make sure to let them know of appointments in advance to make sure that you are covered on the schedule for those days. Most employers are not going to have a problem if you are pregnant. It's a fact of life and it happens. As long as you and your employer are on the same page and you keep them well informed there shouldn't be any problem (and those extra trips to the bathroom won't be frowned upon anymore).