Navigating Maternity Leave After a Stillbirth: Am I Eligible for 26 Weeks?

Dear All,

I find myself in an unexpected situation. I am an employee of a reputed PSU. After having a healthy pregnancy until 34 weeks, suddenly on the next regular checkup, it was found that the baby had no heartbeat anymore. This was an IUFD (in utero fetal death) that was discovered on the 34th week and 4 days. Thereafter, the baby was delivered through normal delivery with pain induction.

Maternity Leave Eligibility

Please advise on my maternity leave eligibility. As per the provisions of the act, the definition indicates a stillborn child is also a child, and hence, my understanding is that I should be eligible for 26 weeks as per the current amendment. Also, the act specifies that a miscarriage is until the 26th week of pregnancy.

Please advise if my understanding is correct or misplaced.

Regards, Alka

Dear Alka, If you experience a stillbirth any time after the 24th week of pregnancy, you are entitled to 26 weeks of maternity leave. You may also be entitled to 26 weeks of paid Maternity Benefit provided you meet the social insurance (PRSI) requirements. In addition to submitting a completed Maternity Benefit application form, you should include written confirmation from your doctor of your PPS number, your original due date, the date your baby was stillborn, and the number of weeks of gestation.