Just started new job and pregnant

[angela22]

Hi

I have been trying to get pregnant for.ever. and now I may be. BUT I also just got a new job (first one in 5 years of being SAHM) and I am super excited about it. It is on the graveyard shift, so my kids will never even know I'm gone, and it's doing freight at the Home Depot overnights. It's perfect for me and I'm super stoked about getting it. What should I do? How do I juggle being pregnant and working graveyard shifts (which will inevitably include lifting, ladders, and long nights of standing)?

I know after the first few months, quitting will have to be a must because of the nature of the work. But I don't want to make my new employer mad for getting pregnant on them right as soon as they gave me a chance and hired me (in a majority male job). I wish I could go back after baby is old enough to sleep through the night without nursing.

Sorry for rambling, and I know I can't have it both ways, just venting all my thoughts that I've only had the morning to consider. I'm only one day late and haven't even tested yet! Just trying to wrap my head around what this will mean.... tonight is my first night on the job....

 

[Lubbird]

Congratulations on the new job

Tbh they probably will be annoyed when you tell them (if you are) but as long as you work hard I imagine they will get over it. If you are pregnant I would wait until you are a bit further along to tell them so that you can get to know everyone first without the pre-judgement of being the woman who started the job pregnant.

You are entitled to flexibile adjustments to make your work easier for you and if it does become too much you can always leave when you need to. Just be happy in your new job and deal with it once you discover if you are pregnant!

Good luck x

 

[sarah_anne]

You are only legally required to work 13 weeks before leaving for maternity leave and they have to hold your position for you for the entirety of your maternity leave. They are also legally obligated to provide you with "modified" duties when you are pregnant if your job requires it. So, if a job requirement is lifting 50lbs, they need to provide you with a lesser weight throughout your pregnancy. You will likely need a doctor's note detailing the safest amount for you to lift. They can also provide you with other duties - i.e., cleaning, etc. that is safe during pregnancy. I would look up the laws specific to your state, but they should all be clearly defined. They cannot be upset with you for being pregnant, nor can they penalize you for it.

 

[mkm1083]

You are only legally required to work 13 weeks before leaving for maternity leave and they have to hold your position for you for the entirety of your maternity leave.

Unless California has additional laws regarding maternity leave this isn't true. Under FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act) employers are only required to allow maternity leave if there are more then 50 employees working for the company within a 75 mile radius. In addition, they are only required to allow 12 weeks of unpaid leave.

 

[mkm1083]

Oh you also have to have worked for the employer for a minimum of 12 months and 1,250 hours.

 

[StarBound]

Btw nothing says you have to leave generally they have to change the job to suit your needs