Glossary > Employment Law > Employment Discrimination > Pregnancy Discrimination Act

Pregnancy-related Disabilities

Pregnancy-related disabilities refer to medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth that affect a person's ability to perform their job functions. These disabilities are protected under the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, which ensures that pregnant employees are treated fairly and not discriminated against in the workplace due to their pregnancy status or related conditions.

Example #1

An example of a pregnancy-related disability could be severe morning sickness that requires frequent breaks during the workday to manage symptoms.

Example #2

Another example could be gestational diabetes that necessitates special dietary accommodations and regular medical appointments.

Misuse

Misuse of pregnancy-related disabilities protection could involve an employer demoting or firing a pregnant employee due to their medical condition, even if they are still able to perform their job duties with reasonable accommodations. This is important to protect against because it could result in unfair treatment and discrimination based on pregnancy status, which goes against the principles of equal opportunity and fairness in the workplace.

Benefits

Protecting against discrimination based on pregnancy-related disabilities ensures that pregnant employees receive the necessary support and accommodations to remain productive and engaged in the workforce. For example, allowing flexible work hours or providing ergonomic equipment can help pregnant employees manage their conditions while continuing to excel in their roles.

Conclusion

Ensuring that pregnant employees are not discriminated against due to pregnancy-related disabilities is crucial for upholding fairness, equality, and inclusivity in the workplace. By recognizing and accommodating these disabilities, employers can create a supportive environment that values the well-being and contributions of pregnant workers.

Last Modified: 4/30/2024