Navigating Maternity Leave After Stillbirth: Am I Entitled to 26 Weeks?

Dear All, I find myself in a highly unexpected situation. Having a perfectly healthy pregnancy until the 37th week, suddenly at the next regular check-up, the baby died in utero (IUFD) with no apparent cause. I am now facing a difference of opinion with my employer regarding my maternity leave entitlement.

As per the law, a 'stillborn' child is also considered a child. My doctor's report states that it was a delivery and not a miscarriage, occurring through a natural delivery process with pain induction.

I believe I should be entitled to 26 weeks of leave as per the recent amendment. Please advise if my understanding is appropriate.

Regards,
KJ

Dear lady,

In the case of your doctor certifying it as delivery and not miscarriage, you are fully entitled to maternity leave, and there is no question of it being curtailed by the authorities. A stillborn is also considered a delivery, but the consequences are different.

Thank you.

In the definition, it is stated that a child includes a stillborn child. So, I think (not sure), you are eligible for ML.