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Pregnancy Discrimination and Workplace Rights

Pregnancy Discrimination and Workplace Rights

Employees have the right to work without being treated unfairly because of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.

Under federal and Indiana civil rights laws, employers may not discriminate against employees or job applicants because they are pregnant or may become pregnant.

Pregnant workers may also have the right to request reasonable accommodations that allow them to continue working safely during pregnancy.

These protections help ensure that individuals are not forced to choose between their health, their family, and their employment.

What Is Pregnancy Discrimination?

Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employee or job applicant is treated differently because of pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition.

This type of discrimination may occur during:

  • Hiring
  • Job assignments
  • Promotions
  • Pay decisions
  • Leave policies
  • Termination of employment

Employers must treat employees affected by pregnancy in the same way they treat other employees with similar abilities or limitations.

Examples of Pregnancy Discrimination:

Pregnancy discrimination can take many forms. Examples may include:

  • Refusing to hire an applicant because they are pregnant
  • Demoting or reducing an employee’s hours because of pregnancy
  • Firing an employee after learning they are pregnant
  • Denying training or promotion opportunities because of pregnancy
  • Forcing an employee to take leave when they are still able to work

These actions may violate employment discrimination laws.

Reasonable Accommodations for Pregnancy:

Some employees may need temporary changes at work during pregnancy.

Under federal law, employees may be able to request reasonable accommodations for limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.

Examples of accommodations may include:

  • Allowing more frequent breaks
  • Providing a stool or chair to sit during work
  • Limiting heavy lifting
  • Adjusting work schedules
  • Allowing temporary job modifications

Employers and employees may discuss possible accommodations to determine a reasonable solution.

Pregnancy, Leave, and Workplace Policies:

Employers should apply workplace policies consistently when employees need time off related to pregnancy or medical conditions.

Pregnant employees may be entitled to certain types of leave depending on the employer’s policies and applicable laws.

Employers should not treat employees less favorably because they are pregnant or because they need time off related to pregnancy or childbirth.

If You Believe Your Employment Rights Were Violated

If you believe you experienced harassment based on a protected class, you may be able to file a discrimination complaint.

The Indiana Civil Rights Commission investigates complaints involving discrimination in employment, housing, education, credit, and public accommodations.

To learn more about filing a complaint, visit the How to File a Discrimination Complaint page.