Unwanted Pregnancy and Planned Abortion: Can My Friend Take Medical Leave?

My friend has a planned induced abortion for an unwanted pregnancy. Can she still take a medical leave?

According to the Maternity Benefit Act, in case of a miscarriage or medical termination of pregnancy, a worker is entitled to six weeks of paid maternity leave.

Steps to Take if an Employee Has Had a Secret Abortion

If an employee discloses that they have had a secret abortion through medication and lacks medical documentation to support this, it is essential to approach the situation with sensitivity and empathy. As an HR professional, the first step would be to ensure the employee's well-being and offer support in a non-judgmental manner. It is crucial to maintain confidentiality and respect the employee's privacy while addressing any potential workplace implications.

Depending on the company's policies and legal requirements, you may need to provide guidance on seeking medical assistance or counseling if needed. Open communication and a compassionate approach can help navigate this delicate situation effectively.

Hi, it is very much true that an employee should provide proper medical proof for Medical Termination of Pregnancy to be eligible for leave as per the MB Act. However, after a personal inquiry, if you find the case to be genuine, you may process the leave as per the MB Act on humanitarian grounds. Submission of medical documents is a requirement of the Act, but regardless of whether medical proof is available or not, the physical pain remains the same. Hence, the employee's request may be considered favorably.