Starting New Job and Pregnant...Now What??? HELP!!

Updated on August 28, 2007
Y.Z. asks from Green Lane, PA
6 answers

I just finished my job hunt, starting a new position within a school district, which I am really excited about. A couple of weeks ago, after I got the job, I found out I was pregnant. Totally unplanned, but excited nonetheless. I'm also hypthyroid (I wasnt with my first child), so on top of health issues to worry about (thyroid levels arent completely regulated yet), I have no idea how to tell my new employer that I'm pregnant and will need to go on leave before the school year is up. I'm not expecting paid leave, but I do want to take at least 12 weeks. I dont know whats going to happen with my benefits, and I'm just all around freaked out. I'm also only about 5 weeks along, so I dont want to say anything just yet, because who knows what could happen, especially with thyroid issues. Any suggestions?

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A.W.

answers from Philadelphia on

I don't know if you've already told your employer, but I would wait until you are in the 12th week for security issues. Also, keep in mind that it is illegal for them to have asked if you were pregnant during the interview process. I would suggest sitting down with your direct supervisor and letting them know that you are pregnant, and it's a bit of a surprise, give them your health history, and let them know you are dedicated to your post until you are no longer capable of doing the job for health reasons.

You might be surprised at the support you could receive. I took a job at 7 months pregnant and was open and honest right from the start, and it's been a great partnership. Good luck!

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L.P.

answers from Philadelphia on

Y. - Congratulations!! In my experience, it is best to let them know as soon as possible in order for them to plan on your time recovering. Most people are very understanding as most people have families of their own and can put themselves in your shoes. You can ask the benefits division at your human resource for specifics regarding your benefits. Keep us posted! Good luck and congratulations to you and your family.

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M.G.

answers from Philadelphia on

In order to qualify for FMLA you must have worked for your employer for 12 months and have worked 1240 hours in that 12 month period. Even though you may not qualify under FMLA the school district may have different rules and many employers are more flexible than FMLA anyway. At my job we have hired people who are already pregnant or became pregnant shortly after starting and there was no problem for them to take time off. You may want to ask some general questions of HR. It's illegal for them to share any medical info with anyone else and you could just ask some general questions without giving away your situation. The more info you have the easier it is when you finally talk with your boss about your pregnancy.

There's a great book called Balancing Pregnancy and Work by Nancy Hall that I highly recommend checking out. It covers the basics of FMLA as well as various other scenarios for people in your situation. I found it tremendously helpful.

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S.T.

answers from Philadelphia on

Congratulations....My husband has been able to stay home with our baby after she was born. Our baby was born 2 months early and daycare was not an option for us, but my husband still needed to make money so there are ways to do it. Oh and by the way what happened to me was I was not at my job for 12 months so I did not qualify for the family leave act where you are entitled to take 12 weeks off. It was a real bummer. Make sure you find out what your company policy is. www.livegreeneasy.com

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P.S.

answers from Philadelphia on

Congratulations on the one on the way (and the new job!) I've had similar experiences. With my first child they didn't find out I was hypothyroid until I was 6 months pregnant. It was scary but everything worked out fine. My son is almost 3 and has no problems whatsoever, so you should be optimistic! Regarding the new job, to spare yourself any potential problems, wait until you are far enough along to mention it to them. Take the time now to make sure you are aware of your legal rights and your school district's policies before you talk to Human Resources. You may not qualify for FMLA leave if you haven't been there for at least a year or haven't worked a certain number of hours. I had started working part time for a company and 3 weeks later found out I was pregnant. They were very nice and very supportive about the whole thing, partly because they knew I was a hard worker and wanted to return to work. However it was only kindness on their part that kept my position available to me, they could have hire someone the day I left. As freaked out as you may get, just keep in mind that you and the baby come first! God bless!

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M.P.

answers from Philadelphia on

Congratulations!
I was diagnosed as hypothyroid at the age of 9 and I have had two full term pregnancies. As long as you get regular blood tests, you shouldn't have reason to worry as far as your thyroid goes.

I can't tell you what to do, however, if it were me, I'd wait until I invested a little more time at the job before telling them my news.

Good luck with whatever you decide!

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