Prenatal appointments and no place to pump: Navigating pregnancy and postpartum needs at work

New York (AP) — Heydi Fernandez, an emergency medical technician, faced challenges with breastfeeding accommodations at her workplace after giving birth three months prior. The station lacked a private space for her to pump breast milk when she returned to work. She expressed her milk at a dining table amidst colleagues, leading to an uncomfortable encounter with the company's CEO.

Despite federal and state laws protecting pregnant and postpartum workers, many women still face discrimination due to the perceived inconvenience for employers. The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, effective in June 2023, obliges employers with 15 or more employees to provide reasonable health and safety accommodations for pregnant or recently postpartum employees.

These accommodations may include help with physically demanding tasks, flexible scheduling for medical appointments, and reduced exposure to hazardous chemicals. The law also guarantees breaks and a private space, separate from a bathroom, for lactation needs. To access these protections, employers must be aware of a pregnant worker's needs related to pregnancy, childbirth, or a medical condition.

However, it is crucial to tread carefully when informing employers about a pregnancy, as some companies only allow discussions with the human resources department. In such cases, it is advisable to keep a record of conversations and maintain a professional demeanor to avoid potential retaliation.