Many women are working while they’re pregnant. But what are you to do when the time comes to have your baby? Your life is going to change radically over the next few months and you don’t need extra worries to cloud your beautiful expectations.
Will I lose my job?
Don’t worry. you cannot be discriminated against or dismissed on account of your pregnancy. You are therefore entitled to return to the job you left before going on maternity leave.
When should I notify my employer?
While pregnant, your employer must make sure there is nothing in your working environment that could pose a danger to you or your unborn child. However, if your employer is unaware of your pregnancy, he/she cannot inform you about things that might pose a risk to your unborn child or take the necessary steps to protect you from potential hazards.
So it is to your own benefit to tell them as soon as possible after you have found out. Also, when possible, tell your employer when you plan on taking leave, when your due date is and when you’ll be back at work. This will give both you and your manager the chance to get a proper plan in place for while you’re away. Also, contact your HR department and find out exactly how maternity leave works in your company. Be sure to make arrangements so that you can attend antenatal (during pregnancy) and postnatal (after birth) appointments at your clinic or hospital as required.
How much maternity leave am I legally entitled to?
You are entitled to ten weeks of paid maternity leave, distributed in proportion to your health condition.
When should I return to work?
You may not go back to work within 6 weeks after the birth of your child. If you are a workaholic you may do so only IF your doctor or midwife says it is safe.
Can my baby’s father/my partner get paternity leave?
Yes, he can, as he gets three days of paid paternity leave.
