Will I lose my new job because I'm pregnant?

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Dear Nurse Beth,

I have been a practicing nurse practitioner for 2 years, and worked as a RN for 3 years prior to that. My NP experience has been in primary care, but I have always wanted to specialize. I interviewed for a position (dream job) in March and was offered a verbal the same week. I officially signed in April, and will be starting in July (due to credentialing). 2 weeks after my signing.

I found out I am pregnant (with my first! - we tried for over 2 years). I haven't been to the doctor yet but I'm already worried about maternity/FMLA/leave. I know I won't qualify for FMLA as I will have only been there 6 months before delivery. I don't know when I should tell my new employer the news, but I know I'll have to start scheduling regular OB appointments as I progress. I definitely want to go back to work after leave, but would like part-time as the job does have a 2-3 hour daily commute. Should I be worried about losing my job? How should I proceed? Thanks so much.

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3 Answers

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Dear Pregnant,

Congratulations on your pregnancy!

You cannot be discriminated against because you are pregnant. However, if you are hired as full-time, they are not required to offer you part-time.

I would start the job in July as planned, and let your employer know you are pregnant. With any luck, the timing will be good because you will have time to learn your new job, and onboard into the new organization.

You may change your mind about how much you want to work between now and delivery, but for now keep it to yourself. See how you feel once you have delivered and go from there.

Best wishes, be well.

Specializes in Progressive Care, Sub-Acute, Hospice, Geriatrics.

OP what did you end up doing? I am in the same predicament. I recently just found out I am pregnant, 8 weeks. I went to my OB/GYN and she confirmed it with blood test and US. At the same day that I received my job offer letter. I want to be transparent with my employers and I know I would want to tell them ahead of time. I just don't know when.

My employer hired TWO pregnant women within a month of each other, both knew they were pregnant upon being hired, and both due within 6 weeks of each other, both for clinical positions. It got rather interesting with staffing issues for a few weeks, but we made it through!  In fact, one of them is pregnant again and is due a month after her baby turns 1!  Just let your employer know so they can start planning. 

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