Working While Expecting: A Guide for Mothers-to-Be

April 30, 2025 /

Juggling work with the joys and challenges of pregnancy can be intense. In Australia, many women keep working during pregnancy, because they want to or need to. This can feel empowering and help with finances, but it also means planning carefully, knowing your rights, and paying attention to your body.

This guide is designed to give mothers-to-be advice, tell them about their rights at work, and share tips for staying comfy while working during pregnancy.

1. Understand Your Rights

In Australia, the law protects you when you are pregnant. The Fair Work Act and laws against discrimination mean pregnant workers are protected from unfair actions, discrimination, and being fired.

Your main rights include:

  • Maternity leave: If you qualify, you can take unpaid leave, usually up to 12 months, and maybe even longer.
  • Flexible work: You can ask to change your hours or work from home due to pregnancy.
  • Protection from discrimination: Employers can’t treat you unfairly because you’re pregnant or on parental leave.
  • Paid parental leave: The government pays eligible workers for up to 18 weeks at the minimum wage.

Make sure to check what you can get from your boss, union, or the government’s Department of Social Services.

2. Talk to Your Boss Early

Once you know you’re pregnant, think about telling your boss when the time is right. It’s best to wait until after the first three months when things are more stable, but give enough time to make any needed changes.

Talking openly will help you:

  • Discuss any changes you need at work
  • Plan your maternity leave
  • Make sure your rights are respected
  • Keep a good relationship with your supervisor

Be specific about what you need, like more breaks, avoiding heavy lifting, or changing your work hours.

3. Request Changes to Your Work

Pregnancy can cause pains, tiredness, or sickness that make it hard to do some jobs. Don’t hesitate to ask for changes that can help, such as:

  • Changing your work hours
  • Setting up your workspace to be more comfortable
  • Taking more breaks
  • Avoiding heavy lifting
  • Working from home

Most employers must offer reasonable help for pregnant employees, especially if it helps you do your job safely.

4. Take Care of Yourself

It’s vital to pay attention to your body. Every pregnancy is different, so know what you can handle.

Tips for staying well at work:

  • Take breaks to rest
  • Drink enough water and eat healthy snacks
  • Wear comfy clothes and shoes
  • Avoid standing or sitting for too long
  • Use cushions for support
  • Keep good posture to avoid back pain

If you still don’t feel well, talk to your doctor for advice.

5. Know the Risks at Work

Some jobs can be risky during pregnancy, like those with dangerous chemicals, radiation, or heavy lifting. You have the right to ask for a risk check and changes to your workplace.

If your job has dangers, your employer should help you lower those risks or move you to a safer job temporarily.

6. Balance Work and Rest

Pregnancy can make you tired, especially later on. Getting enough rest is key to staying well and working productively.

  • Maybe you can work less if possible
  • Use your leave time if you need to rest more
  • Plan for busy or stressful times
  • Don’t take on too much

Remember, your health and your baby’s health come first.

7. Get Ready for Maternity Leave

Start planning your maternity leave early in your pregnancy. Talk about your leave dates with your employer and complete all the paperwork ahead of time.

Consider:

  • How long you’ll be off work
  • How your work will be handled while you’re gone
  • Returning to work—will you come back slowly or go back full-time?

Having a plan will make things easier when the time comes.

8. Find People to Help

Pregnancy is a big deal, and it’s normal to have questions. Reach out to:

  • Your doctor for medical advice
  • Your employer or HR for help with work issues
  • Parent groups for emotional support
  • Your union if you face unfair treatment

Talking things out and getting support can make working during pregnancy easier.

9. Get Ready Mentally

Working while pregnant can be hard on your emotions. You might feel stressed or worried about your job.

Take care of yourself:

  • Make time to relax and do things you enjoy
  • Spend time with people you love
  • Try relaxation or meditation
  • Get counselling if you feel too anxious

It’s good to focus on your mental health at this time.

10. Plan Your Return to Work

Many women think about going back to work after maternity leave. Planning can make this easier:

  • Talk about flexible work options
  • Find childcare early
  • Stay in touch with your employer while on leave
  • Decide if you want to return to work slowly or full-time

A good plan helps you manage being a new parent and having a career.

Final Thoughts

Pregnancy is a special time, but it also has real challenges, especially when you’re working. Knowing your rights, talking openly, and taking care of yourself can help you handle things with confidence.

Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. Get support, know your rights, and trust what feels right for you. With the right planning, you can enjoy a healthy pregnancy while keeping up with your career and your life.

Congrats on this time in your life—take care of yourself and your baby!