Work

You can continue to work during your pregnancy, but it is good to know what rights you have. As soon as you tell your employer that you are pregnant, he/she is obliged to protect your health and that of your baby at work. It is therefore wise to tell your employer in time that you are pregnant. Many women wait for the term ultrasound (between 10 and 12 weeks) before they announce their pregnancy. According to Dutch law, you must report this to your employer at least 3 weeks before you want to go on maternity leave.

RIGHTS

As a pregnant woman, you are entitled to the following during your work:

• Extra breaks (maximum 1/8 of your working time)
• Regular working and rest times
• Space where you can take a rest
• No irregular work, overtime, or night shifts
• Pregnancy examination during your working hours if necessary
• If you are ill due to your pregnancy, you are entitled to sickness benefit.

Discuss with your employer how you can best fit the above points into your work. If you notice that you are not being listened to, please contact the health and safety doctor. They can look for a solution together with you and your employer.

WORK ADJUSTMENT

In many professions you can continue to do your own work, but some jobs require adjustment:

• Do you work with harmful or radioactive substances? Try to ensure that you get suitable work before your pregnancy, because chemicals and radiation can lead to reduced fertility, miscarriage, or birth defects.
• Do you do physically demanding work (a lot of lifting, pushing, pulling, standing for a long time) or do you work night shifts? Consult with your employer for adapted work.
• Stressful job? Find out together with your employer how you can prevent/reduce stress.

For more information about your rights during pregnancy, check the website of the central government or discuss your questions with your employer's occupational health and safety agency.