New Job, now I'm pregnant!

Posts: 1
8/27/12 1:30 P

I started my job late December 2011, and found out that I'm 6 weeks along. Was unsure of how to approach this subject since I've been here for less than a year. By the time the baby is born, I'd have been here a year and a half. Just told my boss today, and she was excited for me.

I think it depends on the person. Luckily, my company is so family-oriented and also does what they can to hold on to good talent. I've been told by management and higher-up executives what a great job I've been doing.

I figure, that if you're a valuable player on the team, they'll accomodate you as long as you're able to perform. Most places are very supportive of mommies-to-be.

Posts: 95
7/15/12 12:20 P

I think your boss will understand if you're honest up front that you found out after offer. That will give you an honest palette and things will make sense if you're sluggish. Better to let them know with enough notice than for them to find out on their own or make assumptions. I was beginning to look for s new job then when I find out I was pregnant I decided to hold off. Told my boss right away because I was exhausted and nauseated and I didn't want her thinking I'd just slacked off. With my first, I started a job in Sept.. A few weeks later was pregnant. Opted not to tell my boss and was let go for a project... I think to this day if I'd just explained to my boss earlier I'd still be there. Every boss is different of course but I think it helps us to be upfront. Being pregnant is a gift and nothing to be ashamed of! CONGRATS on the new job and your pregnancy!

Edited by: MAMASCO at: 7/15/2012 (12:22)

Posts: 182
7/12/12 11:18 A

I live in Oklahoma. I work for housing authority as a housing counselor for first time homebuyers. I don't think it is fair either, but then I really don't have any options here.

Posts: 379
7/12/12 12:26 A

Heather- what state do you live in? I knew California was "more progressive" but what you just described is pathetic! That is just horrible. :(

Posts: 182
7/11/12 5:01 P

I just had the same thing happen. I started here and two months later I found out I was 9weeks prego. My company has a policy that you cannot get FMLA unless you have been here a year. So that means when the baby comes I will lose my job. I am not happy at all about it. I had worked here before for 4years, left for a year and then came back. The time before I left doesn't count and they don't offer maternity leave here. So once I am out of vacation and sick I am out the door. I can reapply and hopefully get my job back. NO FUN! It's like being punished for getting pregnant.

Posts: 379
6/7/12 7:51 P

I just started a new job, and I'm 28 weeks pregnant! I'd rather be in your position :) I handled it by letting my new boss know at the time an offer was extended, and emphasizing I wanted to make the most of my time here before I go on maternity leave. I would wait to tell them until you are safely into your 2nd trimester, and then go from there. With my old company (a 10 person start up), I put together a maternity leave plan, and presented it them. It included things like when I'd be available to be contacted, when I would be returning, who would cover my responsibilities when I was gone, etc. There are templates out there, but I can't remember which one I used. I'll have to look for it. Anyway, good luck, and the more time you can give them to get used to the idea, the better. As my dad says, a boss never likes to be surprised :)

Posts: 721
5/22/12 11:53 P

well by law they can't fire you for being pregnant unless your are on a probation period then they could let you go without giving you a reason. Most bosses are understanding about it as long as your straight with them. I think if you just tell them you only found out after you got the job and that you'll be putting your best foot forward as best you can. and your intentions for after the baby they should hopefully be alright with it.

Posts: 1
5/22/12 3:14 P

Hi All,
I just started a new job and have been here for a month. I found out the weekend before I started that I am pregnant, which makes me about 10 weeks along right now. The good thing is that they didnt know me before I was pregnant so they probably just think I'm chubby :-) The bad thing is how the heck do you tell a new job that you are pregnant and to start planning for your leave? A little worried.