Is Your Employer Treating You Differently During Your Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a significant life event that can impact various aspects of your life, including your career. Unfortunately, some women face discrimination in the workplace due to their pregnancy. Recognizing the signs of pregnancy discrimination is crucial for ensuring your rights are upheld and if you need to take legal action with a Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination lawyer. Here’s how to identify if you may be experiencing this form of discrimination.

Understanding Pregnancy Discrimination

Pregnancy discrimination occurs when a woman is treated unfavorably because of her pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. In the United States, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) prohibits such discrimination, making it illegal for employers to treat pregnant employees differently from other employees with similar abilities or limitations.

Signs of Pregnancy Discrimination

1. Unfavorable Treatment

One of the most apparent signs of pregnancy discrimination is unfavorable treatment compared to non-pregnant colleagues. If you notice that your workload has increased significantly, you’re receiving harsher criticism, or you’re excluded from important meetings or projects because of your pregnancy, these could be red flags.

2. Denial of Accommodations

Under the PDA and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employees may be entitled to reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related conditions. If you request accommodations, such as modified duties or a flexible schedule, and your employer denies these requests without a valid reason, it may indicate discrimination.

3. Job Security Issues

If you find that your employer has suddenly become concerned about your job performance or security after announcing your pregnancy, this could be a sign of discrimination. Comments suggesting that your pregnancy may affect your commitment or ability to perform your job can be particularly telling.

4. Adverse Employment Actions

Any adverse employment action taken against you because of your pregnancy, such as demotion, negative performance reviews, or termination, should be closely examined. If your employer takes such actions shortly after you announce your pregnancy, seek legal advice.

5. Inconsistent Policies

Employers should apply their policies consistently. If your company has a history of accommodating pregnant employees but suddenly refuses to do so in your case, or if they apply different standards to pregnant employees versus others, you may be experiencing discrimination.

6. Comments or Jokes

Inappropriate comments or jokes about your pregnancy can create a hostile work environment. If colleagues or supervisors make derogatory remarks about your ability to work while pregnant or express negative views about your pregnancy, this could be considered discrimination.

7. Unequal Treatment After Leave

If you take maternity leave and return to find that your job has been altered, or you have been passed over for promotions or opportunities that you would have received prior to your leave, this may indicate discrimination. Employers are required to reinstate employees to their original positions or equivalent roles upon their return.

What to Do If You Suspect Discrimination

If you believe you are experiencing pregnancy discrimination, it is crucial to take action. Start by documenting your experiences, including dates, comments, and any relevant communications. This information will be helpful if you decide to file a complaint.

Consider discussing your concerns with your supervisor or human resources. They may not be aware of the issue and can help facilitate a resolution. If internal discussions do not lead to satisfactory outcomes, you may wish to file a formal complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or consult with an employment attorney.

Back to blog