Notifying Your Employer and Making Post-Baby Plans

Are you on the verge of telling your boss that you’re pregnant?

Contact your employer’s human resources department to find out what kind of maternity or family leave benefits are available. Maternity leave, short-term disability and the federal Family and Medical Leave Act are all designed to help you take the time you need to have your baby and recover before returning to work.

Not all employers are required to offer these benefits, however, so check with yours as soon as possible.

Find out whether your employer provides new parents with flexible work schedules and other accommodations. Whatever your job, think now about whether you plan to return after giving birth and how to balance your career with motherhood.

With sufficient preparation, your employer may consider flextime, meal-break flexibility, telecommuting, job-sharing and part-time options. Starting a discussion with your employer early on will allow you to reassure your boss and coworkers of your commitment and productivity.

This message is not intended to provide individual medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have about your health or medical condition, your breastfeeding issues and your infant's health. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you have read in our emails, webpages or other electronic communications.